We're happy to be among the first to bring you these very candid shots of the next-generation Pontiac Vibe, courtesy of a poster from GenVibe, a Pontiac Vibe enthusiast site. As you can see, the 2009 Vibe (GMX-126) takes the cladding molt of the 2005 refresh a step further with truly clean bodypanels free of even bodyside moldings. Medium-sized headlamp elements sweep up along the fender as the trend is today with amber directional indicators resting above the white beams. The trademark Pontiac twin-port grille is present and has been squared off in keeping with more recent models. Folding sideview mirrors debut for 2009 as does a subtle beltline dip in the sheetmetal, recalling the lines of the G6. In the rear, the taillamps are stacked and the larger, upper unit appears to contain reverse lamps.

Inside, the interior show improvement from the first-generation with a modest but distinct evolution. The podded gearshift quadrant is now more intergrated with the center floor console and the radio headunit is completely integrated for a cleaner look. The passenger side now features a seamless airbag housing. Over on the driver's side, extra bright electroluminescent displays are housed in three seperate pods - one for the tach, one for the speedometer, and a third offset oval pod for fuel/temp gauges and a driver's info center. Trademark Pontiac red illumination is present in the gauge demarcations. A large Pontiac Arrowhead occupies the center of the steering wheel, flanked by redundant stereo controls. Metallic door panel trim is new and combined with the two-tone, adds a touch of sportiness and class to the cabin. The center stack, however, loses the 110v power outlet found on the current model.

Like the current Vibe, this 2009 model will carry Toyota powertrains. The base model is likely to recieve Toyota's 2ZR-FE inline 4-cylinder, which produces 136hp and 129lb-ft of torque and is currently found in the Corolla and Scion xD or the 2AZ-FE I4 making 157hp and 162lb-ft of torque and found in Scion tC, new xB, and upcoming Toyota Blade. Its possible the base model may also carry the new ValveMatic I4 as all Toyota models are slated to have the technology by 2010. The GT model will return for 2009 and is rumored to have an automatic option.

One thing not known at this time is whether the next Vibe will even be called the Vibe. Its possible it may carry a G-prefix designator as other Pontiacs do, possibly G4. We'll know shortly, though, as the Vibe is scheduled for an introduction at the 2008 New York International Auto Show. The next-generation Vibe will continue to be assembled at the NUMMI plant in Fremont.