I traded a Matrix (same as a Vibe just like the above poster) in on my TC, along with an old Astro van I had (C4C program). I honestly have to say the TC has been an amazing addition. I drive for a living (normally full-size extended body cargo vans), and deal with quite a bit of palletized freight. You can't find an "economical" vehicle that will hold a 48" pallet in between the wheel wells, the last one I could find were my Astro vans, which aren't really "economical" by most standards. I've hauled 1300lbs before, and although the rear end sags a little, it still runs well. You notice the weight is there, but I don't get blown around as much by crosswinds and other vehicles as I expected for such a "brick" like design. The Matrix only had 37" between the wheel wells, and with a hatch door, it was much more difficult to have anything placed in it.
I've maxed out at 32mpg, but that was cruising home from Louisiana at 55-60mph with only the vents on (no A/C) on mainly flat roadways. On a normal trip I crack 25mpg without a problem, if the city driving is heavier, I'll get 23.
I will definitely admit I'm not a fan of the automatic transmission. It's not BAD, but it's certainly not what would preferable in this vehicle. A 5 or 6 speed manual (or auto) would make for better powerband control when on the highway and at certain speeds. I would have bought a diesel option also had their been one.
I've logged 14.5k miles so far, and considering the money it's saved me in gas, I definitely think it's a great vehicle. I've had many, many comments on how it would be a great recreation vehicle. I just had more work-related purposes for it.
I have a fairly basic XL wagon model, no power options, 4-seater, not even a CD player in it. I was unable to find a 5-seater at the time I bought (in fact, I could only find cargo models outside of this one when I was buying), but C4C was ending the next day, and no one would have any 5-seater XLTs in for several weeks.
As long as you aren't a REALLY tall person, you should be able to fit a decent bed setup behind the front seats. You can actually put a mattress in the back (I do it when we go to the drive-in).
The only reason to test drive IMO, is to decide whether you can deal with the automatic's finicky nature. I personally can deal with being "slow" as in most instances I'm not slow, I'm just not willing to floor it for no particular reason. Other than that, given the vehicle's capabilities, I would assume it would be a good vehicle. The rear seats are even relatively simple to remove, I believe it's 4 - 40 torx head bolts, and an extra person to help carry it if you don't want to strain your back. (I don't have the single seat in the rear, so I can't attest to the simplicity of removing that one.)
