I bought my 2004 Pontiac Vibe new.  Bought it for my wife as a daily driver and occasional highway use.  Have had car for 4 years now and have over 90,000 miles on it.

This is a great car , but don't plan on winning any races with it.  It gets 35 mpg which is great especcially with today's gas prices.  With that comes a price.  Car is underpowered, Does well in town but try climbing a mountain pass with it and you will be doing alot of shifting. 

Auto transmission may help.  Mine has a 5 speed in it.

All in all, I am happy with this car.