One of the first of a fairly new breed of tall, sporty wagons that provide a lot of cabin space and practicality within their small footprints, the 2007 Pontiac Vibe still remains a smart choice in its segment. By combining the nimble handling of a compact sedan with the versatility of a four-door hatchback body design, the Vibe has proven popular among young buyers who want something roomy and practical that delivers high fuel economy while still having more than a dash of style and attitude.The product of a joint venture between Toyota and Pontiac, the Vibe is essentially a twin to the Toyota Matrix; indeed, the two are built at the same factory. The platform is essentially all Toyota, and most interior components are shared as well. It's the body styling that separates the two, and to our eyes the Pontiac Vibe is the looker with its distinctive twin grille and sharper lines as compared to the Matrix's generic nose and bulbous hindquarters. With an overall length of just 171 inches, the Vibe is shorter than a typical compact sedan, but its height and width provide a spacious cabin. Examples of its practical nature include a wipe-clean plastic load floor and a fold-flat front passenger seat that allows long items to be carried within the cabin. A somewhat higher seating position appeals to those who like the "command of the road" view that affords, yet getting in and out of the Vibe is a breeze thanks to relatively large doors and high seat cushions.