2004 Toyota Matrix: Road Test
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2004 Toyota Matrix ▼
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- MSRP: $14,670 -$18,750
- Invoice: $13,568 -$16,968
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Our road test for the 2004 Toyota Matrix includes a full evaluation of the 2004 Toyota Matrix from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2004 Toyota Matrix, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2004 Toyota Matrix help you decide if a 2004 Toyota Matrix is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| FWD Standard, man. | AWD XR, auto. | FWD XRS w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 5 | 4 |
Engines need high rpm to deliver decent power, especially 180-hp version. In fact, in most situations, 130-hp models feel almost as strong as Matrix XRS and Vibe GT. Pontiac says base manual-transmission 2WD Vibe takes about 9.5 sec 0-60 mph; expect the same of comparable Matrix models. Heavier AWD models take about 11.5 sec 0-60 mph. Test Matrix XRS did 8.5 sec 0-60; expect the same of Vibe GT.
FUEL ECONOMY
| FWD Standard, man. | AWD XR, auto. | FWD XRS w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6 | 6.6 |
Test 2WD models with 130-hp engine and automatic transmission averaged 26.6 mpg. Test AWD models with 123-hp engine averaged 25.4. Test 180-hp models with manual transmission averaged 24.8. Premium-grade fuel recommended for 180-hp versions, regular for the others. Fuel-tank capacity on AWD models is 11.9 gallons vs. 13.2.
RIDE QUALITY
| FWD Standard, man. | AWD XR, auto. | FWD XRS w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4 | 4.4 |
Varies some with model and equipment, but acceptable with 16-inch wheels, if rather jittery over patchy pavement and freeway expansion breaks. Optional 17-inch tires increase harshness.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| FWD Standard, man. | AWD XR, auto. | FWD XRS w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 6 | 5.3 |
These tall wagons are more prone to crosswind wander at highway speeds than lower-built small cars, but they have responsive steering and are assured in turns, with only moderate body lean in fast changes of direction. Optional 17-inch tires enhance cornering grip. Only models with ABS made available for testing so far; they have good stopping performance.
QUIETNESS
| FWD Standard, man. | AWD XR, auto. | FWD XRS w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3 | 4 |
Disappointing. Engines noisy, boomy in brisk acceleration, not that relaxed in typical highway cruising. Fair wind rush and coarse-surface tire thrum, too.
CONTROLS
| FWD Standard, man. | AWD XR, auto. | FWD XRS w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.6 |
Gauges a bit small and set deep in dashboard, so not that easy to see in some daytime conditions, and their bright trim rings reflect in windshield. Control layout simple, logical, but optional navigation system absorbs most audio functions, has undersized buttons, finicky "joystick" control, and is tough to figure out. Cabin finish and materials sturdy and in line with prices.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| FWD Standard, man. | AWD XR, auto. | FWD XRS w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.1 |
Good driving position more upright than in typical subcompact car, but just slightly elevated. Fine head room even with optional sunroof. Long-legged adults may wish for more stretch-out space. Good comfort on long trips, but seats lack adequate lateral support for spirited driving. Outward visibility slightly cluttered over the shoulder, good otherwise.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| FWD Standard, man. | AWD XR, auto. | FWD XRS w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 3.9 |
Enough head and leg room for two large adults, but knee clearance gets tight with front seatbacks reclined and bench seat not all that comfortable. Doors could open wider, and floor-level passageways are fairly narrow, but tall doorways eliminate most stooping on entry/exit.
CARGO ROOM
| FWD Standard, man. | AWD XR, auto. | FWD XRS w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 3.9 |
Front passenger seat folds flat for added versatility, as does split rear seat. Fine overall space for the exterior size. Cargo floor covered in durable plastic. Bountiful small-item storage, including large glovebox and under-floor spaces around spare tire.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| FWD Standard, man. | AWD XR, auto. | FWD XRS w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 10 | 9 | 5.6 |
Matrix and Vibe are appealing alternatives to conventional small wagons and compact SUVs. We like their high utility, good road manners, available AWD, and Toyota-grade reliability. We don't like the needlessly noisy engines and the harsher, high-strung nature of the Matrix XRS and Vibe GT models. Note that Matrix base prices are generally a bit lower than those of comparable Vibes, but Pontiac more frequently offers factory rebates and incentives.
Total Score
| FWD Standard, man. | AWD XR, auto. | FWD XRS w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60 | 60 | 59 | 48.4 |
Total Score: 60
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