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Pontiac 'Vibe' SUV shown at Los Angeles Auto Show |
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Uniquely combined, Vibe defies the traditional vehicle classification. It offers a spacious interior in the disguise of a compact car, and features of a sports car, sport wagon and SUV all at the same time. It rides tall, has available all-wheel drive, offers unexpected storage systems and cargo-hauling capacity, and features a surprising level of performance. “We are confident that Vibe will attract new young buyers to the Pontiac portfolio, solidifying our position with this important target,” said Lynn Myers, Pontiac-GMC general manager. “Vibe meets their demands head-on taking them everywhere they want to go, fitting every occasion both in and out of the city.” Vibe sports a purposeful, athletic exterior that is smoothly sculpted and muscular, lending a fresh, clean look. Overall, the design shows a very bold character, and dramatic, cleanly defined forms.The distinctive, strongly arched roofline features a unique, integrated roof rack that creates a singular fastback shape. The strongly raked beltline contrasts withthe dropping roofline to give a sporty tapered shape to the side windows. Vibe also features bold Pontiac styling cues, with an impressively integrated front fascia form with twin-port grille and recessed fog lamps. Character at the rear is provided by multi-layer taillights, which bookend the liftgate/liftglass opening for optimal cargo area accessibility. Vibe’s purposeful interior is highly flexible and filled with inventive features. Capable of packing a whopping 57.2 cubic feet (1,621 liters) of cargo behind the driver, Vibe features 40/60 split rear seats folding flat at the push of a button to create a level load floor. The fold-down flat front passenger seat allows for even more room to accommodate extra long cargo. Innovative storage areas in the rear along with functional chrome tie-downs can secure bikes and other loose gear. The inviting, driver-oriented cockpit is accented by chrome-trimmed gauges and Pontiac’s signature red analog display. “Vibe’s interior was designed from the inside out, considering the driver and passengers’ every need,” said Craig Bierley, Pontiac Vibe brand manager. “The result is an interior that’s both flexible and fun.” Vibe includes a 110-volt household-style electrical outlet in the front center console to accommodate a variety of electronic devices. According to Vehicle Line Executive Jerry Gillespie, Vibe’s flexibility is aided by its interior spaciousness. "The Vibe is built upon a highly efficient body architecture, which offers cavernous interior and cargo space comparable to larger SUVs.“ As safety is a major concern for new car buyers, Vibe offers all-wheel drive and ABS, seat-mounted side airbags, remote keyless entry, full feature security system, and OnStar communication and assistance. Under the hood of the Blue Ice Metallic Vibe is a 1.8-liter, 130-horsepower four-cylinder with 125 lb-ft (170 Nm) of torque mated with a four-speed automatic. More details on an even more powerful, vibrant Vibe will be available at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit on January 8, 2001. “Customers have clearly told us what they want -- the commanding view and capable cargo space of an SUV, the power of a sports car, and all-wheel-drive security,” said Bierley. “Vibe has it all.” See also: Pontiac Vibe for 2003 Vibe Show Car Specifications Configuration: Five passenger, five-door, front-wheel drive Engine: 1.8-liter DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder Bore/stroke (mm): 79.0 x 91.5 Compression Ratio: 10.0 Horsepower: 130 hp (96.9 kw) @ 6000 rpm Torque: 125 lb-ft (170 Nm) @ 4200 rpm Fuel Economy: 27/32 mpg city/mpg hwy Transmission: 4-speed automatic Brakes: Front disc/Rear drum Wheels and Tires: 18-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels, P265/40R18 tires Dimensions: Wheelbase: 102.4 inches (2600 mm) Overall length: 171.8 inches (4365 mm) Overall width: 69.9 inches (1775 mm) Overall height: 63.0 inches (1600 mm)  |
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| Copyright © 2001 Car Design News, Inc. |
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