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Mazda MAZDA6 vs. Pontiac Vibe Review

How the Mazda MAZDA6 stacks up against the Pontiac Vibe - by Nigel Cooper, Topanga CA

2010 Mazda MAZDA6
Price Range: $18,450 - $28,465
2010 Pontiac Vibe
Price Range: $16,100 - $20,875
Mazda MAZDA6 vs. Pontiac Vibe Review

Performance
When it comes to horsepower, the Mazda MAZDA6 packs quite a punch and will knock the Pontiac Vibe down a few rungs. On the other hand, keep in mind that high horsepower engines often command higher insurance premiums. The Pontiac Vibe is likely to feel a bit sluggish because of its high horsepower-to-weight ratio.

Handling
The Mazda MAZDA6 and the Pontiac have roughly similar tires. With their similar turning circles, the Pontiac Vibe and the Mazda MAZDA6 indubitably handle approximately the same into and out of tight spots.

Drivetrain
The Mazda's engine is tremendously more massive than the Pontiac Vibe's. Note that bigger engines may use more gasoline than smaller ones. The Mazda packs quite a wallop compared to the Pontiac Vibe in terms of torque, which is the force that lets you accelerate quickly. Torque equals pickup, and the Mazda MAZDA6 will have picked up and gone by the time the Pontiac Vibe finally gets moving.

Utility
Neither the Mazda nor the Pontiac Vibe has a marked advantage regarding seating capacity.

Convenience
You'll doubtless take the Pontiac for a fill-up roughly as often as the Mazda MAZDA6.

Comfort
Taller drivers will considerably enjoy the extra head room in the Pontiac Vibe's front cabin compared to the Mazda MAZDA6. The Pontiac Vibe is not particularly more spacious for your passengers than the Mazda MAZDA6.

Dimensions
The Vibe is likely to feel a little sluggish because of its high horsepower-to-weight ratio. Your wallet will hurt more every time you fill up the MAZDA6 than the Pontiac Vibe because of its more capacious tank. The Pontiac Vibe rides lower than the Mazda MAZDA6, which is a good thing for its center of gravity and ease of access. The Vibe and the Mazda compete for the same parking spaces.

Cost
The Pontiac will save you money at the pump compared to the Mazda MAZDA6. The Pontiac is markedly less costly than the MAZDA6 with respect to MSRP.

Overview
The basic after-sale protection that comes with the Pontiac isn't quite as generous as the Mazda MAZDA6's.

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