My wife drives an 09 Pontiac Vibe AWD that is harsh overs bumps and holes. The suspension just feels like it had no give. I, on the other hand, drive an 05 Toyota Prius with twice the miles that feels like you're driving a cloud in comparison. I'm tempted to try Prius struts and springs on her car if they will bolt on, as they appear to be very similar in design. Any thoughts on ways to make it ok on the local, poorly maintained roads?
I’d personally get KYB or Monroe struts/shocks. In my opinion those two companies are the better for suspension parts.
Agreed for the KYB above.
Prius and Vibe/Matix struts aren't interchangeable. Try KYB's.
That's just how the Matrix/Vibe was designed. The driving experience is centered around the firmer ride as its a "sportier" car. I would look for a different pair of struts instead of the Prius ones.
Yeah those parts will not be interchangeable.
You could price out different shocks/struts, but the Vibe was designed as a cheap, sporty car. Even with KYB's you're going to feel the bumps way more than in the Prius. It is the nature of the beast.
