Toyota Matrix Value Meets Fun
During the early part of this decade Toyota was examining its vehicle line up and the choice was made to build a vehicle to entice young folks who were attempting to find something that was small, fun to drive, and reasonable. Whilst the Corolla served faithfully in this capacity, Toyota required something that spoke excitement. The Corolla just wasn’t that sort of a car and something radically different was needed. Enter the Matrix. Based on the Corolla platform, the Matrix does what no Corolla can do: turn heads. We’ll take a look at this sporty compact and see how the 2006 model stacks up.
In 2003, the Matrix was introduced to the northern US market. Built in California as a joint venture with General Motors – the Pontiac Vibe is its twin – the Matrix is targeted toward budget conscious young folks who wish to have a vehicle that makes a statement. To save cash, the Corolla frame was used, but the Matrix stands some 3 inches taller and is eight inches shorter than its Toyota sibling. The roof line on the Matrix is completely different too as it slopes from front to back and ends in a wedge, giving the vehicle sort of a truck look to it. This rakish appearance is what gives the Matrix its unique look as well as an additional bit of room for folks and their stuff. Indeed, both driver and front passenger sit higher up, very like in a little SUV or as in an automobile like Chrysler’s PT Cruiser. With 4 doorways and a rear lift gate, the Matrix acts more of a wagon, but its smooth exterior simply refutes that fact.
Motorists have a choice between front wheel drive and a four wheel drive versions of the vehicle, something not offered on the Corolla. The standard motor for the Matrix is a 1.8-liter DOHC 16-valve VVT-I 4-cylinder engine. Paired to a five speed manual transmission, the engine turns out a respectable 126hp. For more power, there is also a higher tuned version of the same engine delivering 164hp. It is getting twinned with a six speed manual transmission. Four wheel drive versions of the Matrix come equipped with a 4-wheel anti-lock brake system [ABS] which is optional on 2WD models.
Gas mileage for the Matrix makes the vehicle a motorist’s dream. At 30 mpg city and 36 mpg highway, the front wheel drive version of the auto produces some of the best results of any non-hybrid vehicle sold in North America. A 13 gallon fuel tank makes 400 mile trips a possibility on just one tank of gas; this is very good for the scholar who has to drive forwards and forwards between school campus and home.
Unlike many cars of its size, the aftermarket crowd has produced a wide variety of products to help Matrix owners customize their vehicles. Hood protectors, tail light covers, polymer air dams, fog lights, hood scoops and vents, mud flaps, and paintable window covers are some of the Toyota parts and accessories pitched to youth, who are the first owners of the Matrix.
MSRP starts at US$15,110 [CDN$17,200] with a top of the line Matrix topping out at just below US$20K to about CDN$25K.
For the entire North Yankee market, Toyota sells almost 100,000 Matrix’ every year. Not bad for a car whose origins are reasonably easy but whose heart is truly sporty and youth minded.
For more reviews about sports cars, visit thesupercars.org and while you are at it, you might also want to have a look at used cars Toyota Paseo.
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