2005 Pontiac Vibe Road Test

Enhancing the already-good qualities of the Vibe, the revamped 2005 model boasts a newly-styled front end with a revised

The 2005 model boasts a newly-styled front end with a revised fascia and grille. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

fascia and grille (inspired by the new G6 and upcoming Pontiac Solstice roadster), new fabric patterns in slate and graphite shades, and a standard passive suppression air bag system on the passenger side, plus a few new optional features. Included in the list of options for 2005 is StabiliTrak vehicle stability enhancement system, the "Moon & Tunes" package with integrated sub-woofer, leather seating, programmable automatic door locks, and OnStar Gen 6 hardware with upgraded hands-free capability.

My just-above-base model Vibe was equipped with a few of the new features for 2005 including a graphite-coloured interior, the

A graphite-coloured interior, leather seating with leather-wrapped shift knob and steering wheel, and StabiliTrak are just some of the new features in the 2005 Vibe. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

leather seating with leather-wrapped shift knob and steering wheel, and StabiliTrak which, in short, assists the vehicle in maintaining the driver's intended path by applying brake force at any corner of the car independent of the driver's use of the brake pedal. During my test week, there was little need for the StabiliTrak system to activate because the Vibe's handling in the slippery and icy weather was capable on its own, although the fact the technology was there definitely made me feel safer in case the conditions had turned less favourable.