These days, the world of car customization typically revolves around the same old nameplates and platforms, which makes it mighty refreshing to see something new and different hit the scene – for example, a turbocharged Pontiac Vibe, as featured in the following video.
Coming to us from YouTuber ThatDudeinBlue, this feature video clocks in at just under 12 minutes, giving the viewer a look at not only some of the modifications that went into the build, but also what it’s like to drive.
For those readers who may be unaware, the Pontiac Vibe was produced between 2002 and 2009 as a joint effort between GM and Toyota, with Toyota offering the mechanically similar Matrix. Several four-cylinder powerplants were offered over the years, but this particular example is fitted with Toyota’s 1.8L 2ZZ-GE.
Funny enough, this modified Pontiac Vibe was the owner’s very first car, and over the course of 14 years, he’s evolved the compact into what it is now.
On the performance side of things, the owner decided to add a wallop under the hood in the form of a new Garrett GT2860RS turbo, which ups output to roughly 250 horsepower at the wheels thanks to eight pounds of boost. The engine can also rev to well over 8,000 rpm, making it quite the little screamer on the street. Making the package work is an AEM piggyback ECU, while power reaches the front wheels through a six-speed manual transmission with a short-throw shifter.
The suspension spec on this Pontiac Vibe includes BC Racing coilovers, which necessitate the integration of a number of different Toyota components to fit the Pontiac Vibe platform. However, the video hosts says it works well, and the drop is substantial to boot. Further exterior highlights include a carbon fiber hood and a GM OEM ground effects body kit, plus billet grilles, 18-inch aftermarket wheels, and a custom rear spoiler.
The interior was upgraded as well, and now shows off a Grip Royal steering wheel and a variety aftermarket gauges.
All in all, it’s nice to see a build that goes against the grain. Check it out for yourself by hitting play:
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Comments
I want one!
Another forgotten 4 cylinder turbo, 2014 Buick Verano came with the 257hp 290ft turbo. Tunable to 290hp 310ft in that compact model.
I own a 2004 Pontiac Vibe…GM needs to start rebuilding these. Best car on market. No engine issues. But crappy paint jobs, cheap plastic handles and door actuator clips and your heating and cooling damp doors and fan blowers and electrical issues in lights. I just now had to replace original blower fan, fuse for headlights, door clips , the paint job is peeling off like crap..but engine has over 220, 000miles on it and still going strong . Fixing to put in new starter from an original. People are buying this car up right and left due to gas prices and the Vibe beats anything out there. I can drive whole state of Arkansas a 6 hour trip down and back and still have a quarter of tank of gas left.
Wish Toyota let GM produce the concept Vibe GXP that had 2zz, AWD, and a 6speed. Should’ve, would’ve, could’ve. Dude needs to swap some Geo badges onto it