By Denise McCluggage

The Vibe and Matrix are one of those Toyota-GM cooperative deals that get built by NUMMI in Fremont, CA, a facility with a good reputation for quality. The two are virtually the same as far as platform and engine are concerned though exterior styling is unique. Thus it comes to a matter of personal preference. (Check them both out in person because photographs are misleading.)

I happen to like the Vibe better. And this despite of its definite family resemblance to the Aztek. It's like two siblings who look alike but one is appealing and cute and the other ungainly and bumbling.

The base model of the Vibe has a 1.8-liter dual overhead cam four-cylinder engine that develops 130 horsepower. The GT version is good for 180-hp and comes with a six-speed manual transmission. The base model starts at $16,900, the GT at $19,900 and an all-wheel-drive model at $20,100. There are assorted options ranging from anti-lock brakes, side airbags, 17-inch wheels and even a navigational system - rare in cars of this price range.

Interior space, the surprising amount of it and its flexibility in use, may be the strongest feature of the Vibe. The seats fold into any number of configurations and when folded flat provide a hard floor, wonderfully useful for toting the stuff of life. Try awkward-shaped flea market finds, sports equipment and the contents of an entire dorm room - swallowed in an easy gulp.

Another strong point is the agility of the Vibe. Its rigidity and apt steering geometry took to the tight turns and flowing curves of Mulholland Drive with élan. What a pleasure!

For most everyday purposes the 130hp in the basic Vibe will be adequate. The 50 additional ponies in the GT, however, are welcome. But that lovely chassis and suspension system, and the 17-inch wheels, deserve another, say, 50 horses. What would have seemed like an abundance of power a few years ago now seems slight given the entry into the market of the hot rally-bred cars like the Subaru WRX and Ford Focus. Maybe more horses down the line? There were hints of it.

Another difference between the companion Matrix and Vibe is the sound. Not sound as in music from its standard CD player (with an MP3 player coming in a year). No, I speak of the exhaust note. Toyota must have a librarian in its design department. Hush, hush is fine in a Lexus sedan, but in a vehicle like this, crossover or whatever, you need some noise. A little 'tude. Vibe has it. And the designers worked to get it just right.

All in all the Vibe has good vibes. If you are looking for a sharp, useful, well-priced means of transport, stop by a Pontiac dealer. They may have your new set of wheels in the showroom.

For more information on the Vibe, click here.

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