Are You Vibin' or Ridin'?

The 2011 Ford Mustang at Cincinnati Ford looks virtually the same as last year's model. But new engines and other improvements make it a better drive and better equipped in just about every way. With either the all new 412 horsepower V8 in the GT, or the new 305 horsepower 3.7 liter V6 in the base models, its both faster and more fuel efficient. Highway fuel economy rates as high as 31 miles per gallon with V6 or 31 miles per gallon for the GT. To match the new power trains, the 2011 Mustang models get upgraded brakes as well as body and suspension enhancements. They all come standard with electric power steering. The Mustang received a complete refresh last year for the 2010 model, with reshaped sheet metal on the outside, along with an updated center stack and audio controls. Those changes carry through to the 2011 model. Just like before, the Mustang is available either as a coupe or convertible both in the GT or V6, and the convertible comes with a reasonably tight, well designed soft top.

The Pontiac Vibe, which is much like the VW Golf, found at Phoenix Volkswagen Dealer Peoria, is the last of the Pontiac line. The 2010 Vibe has cargo space to rival larger crossovers, but its drive is unexciting. Reviewers use words like "practical, "competent", and "sensible" to describe the Pontiac Vibe. But as cars get funkier dimensions and punchier engines, the Vibe's relevancy has slipped. General Motors phased out all Pontiac Branded vehicles from its production lines in 2010, and in fact the Vibe was the only Pontiac sold as a 2010 model. If you like the Vibe but can't find one around anymore, consider a Toyota Matrix. The Matrix is built on the same platform as the Vibe and has many of the same features. Wearing the Toyota badge has helped to boost the Matrix resale value as well. The Vibe has comfy interior and massive cargo area. The discontinuation of the brand could make MSRP affordable. Plus you can rest assured that your warranty will be honored at GM Dealerships long after the Pontiac brand has become extinct. The vibe is available in four trims, including the on demand all wheel drive trim, and the sport tuned vibe GT. You can also find the Vibe at Bradenton Service Center.