Even though the Toyota Matrix , the Vibe's twin sister, is sold on a larger scale, the two companies have maintained their partnership in order to manufacture the second generation of their small hatchbacks.

Pontiac is delivering the second-generation Vibe at a very opportune time, as small, trendy cars in the affordable and fuel-efficient class seem to hit the sweet spot in the deeply distressed automotive market.

Despite prices that start around $15,000, compact hatchbacks like the Vibe are much more than entry-level models. Their styling, comfort, versatility and entertainment options appeal to the most discriminating members of the so-called "creative class.

TYPE: Front-drive, four-door, five-passenger, compact hatchback. PRICE: $15,710 base, $20,560 as tested. WHERE BUILT: Fremont, Calif. KEY RIVALS: Toyota Matrix, Chrysler PT Cruiser, Dodge Caliber, Mazda3.

All-wheel-drive and downsized, frugal motoring are higher that ever on the minds of Canadians as oil (at this writing) is at almost $145/barrel. You can drive down any street and see rows and rows of older, big SUVs crammed into the sales lots with the number ...

“ay, NUMMI is an exceptional facility that has lent its success to other factories, including GM's Oshawa and Toyota's Cambridge plants.”

Model Tested: 2009 Pontiac Vibe AWD Basics: four-door, five-passenger, all-wheel-drive hatchback Price: $22,615, including options and destination charges What's New: For 2009, the sporty and practical Vibe received its first major facelift since its introduct...

ATLANTA | The Pontiac Vibe , redesigned for the 2009 model year, might be the right vehicle at the right time for many folks. With car shoppers desiring spaciousness, comfort and style, but also not wanting to pay a lot at the pump, the Vibe delivers.

“John Finnerty Apparently, "hatchback" does not do justice to the coolness Pontiac imbued in the Vibe. Of course, I am probably not cool enough for the”

The good: The 2009 Pontiac Vibe GT comes with a decent stereo system and an economical engine. The bad: OnStar navigation in the Vibe GT isn't much better than asking a stranger for directions.

Like its Toyota Matrix twin, the Pontiac Vibe has been reinvigorated for the 2009 model year. Unlike the 2009 Toyota Matrix, though, the 2009 Pontiac Vibe has undergone a more subtle restyling, at least from the front.

By Fred Aun , The ClickZ Network,.