Pontiac launched its entry-level Vibe hatchback wagon as an early 2003 model. Styled by Pontiac and engineered by Toyota, the Vibe is produced at a Toyota/General Motors joint-venture facility in Fremont, Calif. The Vibe is related to the Toyota Matrix.

Like other small “crossover” models, the Vibe combines features of a sports car, a sport wagon and a sport utility vehicle. That sounds like a lot of sport, and the Vibe leans in that direction because Pontiac has long been portrayed as the sportiest member of the GM divisions.

The grille and front fascia have been restyled for 2005. Leather seating, seat-mounted side-impact airbags and side curtain-type airbags are available. A tire-pressure monitor is included on GT and all-wheel-drive models, and GM’s StabiliTrak electronic stability system is available. GM’s OnStar communication system is optional, and a new Moon & Tunes package includes a subwoofer.

The Vibe was designed to target youthful buyers and is offered with front- or all-wheel drive.