2006 Toyota Matrix: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Essentially unchanged for 2006, this crossover wagon shares a basic Toyota-sourced design and powertrains with the Pontiac Vibe, which differs slightly in appearance and features. Matrix comes in three models with 1.8-liter 4-cyl engines. Standard and XR offer front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive with 126 and 118 hp, respectively. A sporty XRS comes only with front-wheel drive, 164 hp, and 6-speed manual transmission. A 4-speed automatic transmission is mandatory for AWDs. The front-wheel-drive Standard and XR offer a 5-speed manual or optional automatic. AWDs have the same ride height as front-drive models and are not designed for off-road use. ABS is standard on XRS and AWDs, optional otherwise; XRS includes rear disc brakes vs. drums. An antiskid system is available for front-wheel-drive models with automatic transmission. Optional linewide are curtain side airbags packaged with front torso side airbags.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Compact Cars comprise the smallest passengers cars. These vehicles range from tiny economy models to slightly larger, popularly priced sedans, hatchbacks, and wagons.

Our Best Buys include Chrysler PT Cruiser, Honda Civic, Mazda 3, and Pontiac Vibe/Toyota Matrix twins. Our Recommended picks include Chevrolet Cobalt, Ford Focus, Hyundai Elantra, Kia Spectra, and Toyota Corolla.

New or significantly redesigned models include Chevrolet HHR, Hyundai Accent, Kia Rio, and Volkswagen Golf and Jetta.