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2007 Toyota Matrix Full Review
Date Published: 7/31/08
Also in the 2007 Toyota Matrix Review:
2007 Toyota Matrix Review
Matrix loses its all-wheel-drive and sporty models for 2007. This five-passenger wagon shares a basic Toyota-sourced design and powertrains with the Pontiac Vibe, which differs slightly in appearance and features. Matrix comes in Standard and XR models, both with front-wheel drive and a 126-hp 4-cyl engine. AWD versions and the sporty 164-hp XRS are discontinued. Manual transmission is standard, automatic is optional. ABS and an antiskid system are optional. So are front side airbags and curtain side airbags. Among features included on the XR and optional on Standard are power windows and locks and remote keyless entry. New for '07 is an M-Theory option package with 4-wheel disc brakes and special trim.
Competition
Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Compact Cars comprise popularly priced sedans, hatchbacks, and wagons with wheelbases 100 inches or longer.
Our Best Buys include the Honda Civic and Mazda 3. Our Recommended picks are the Chevrolet Cobalt, Ford Focus, and Mazda 5.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Hyundai Elantra, Nissan Sentra, Nissan Versa, and Pontiac G5.
Our Best Buys include the Honda Civic and Mazda 3. Our Recommended picks are the Chevrolet Cobalt, Ford Focus, and Mazda 5.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Hyundai Elantra, Nissan Sentra, Nissan Versa, and Pontiac G5.
News
A redesigned Matrix is expected in spring 2008 as an '09 model. The same timeframe should apply to a new version of the related Corolla sedan. Sources say the Matrix will be renamed Blade and given sportier, lower-profile stance with an eye to the Mazda 3, regarded by some as the "hip cool" car in the compact class. Toyota already sells a Japan-market Blade with different styling, but the U.S. version is expected to share its 158-hp 2.4-liter 4-cyl engine. No word yet on whether an all-wheel-drive option will return. A new Pontiac Vibe will share most Blade basics, and may also be renamed.
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2007 Toyota Matrix Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Available all-wheel drive | Engine noise |
| Fuel economy | Ride (XRS) |
| Cargo room | |
| Rear-seat room | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
Matrix and Vibe share a 4-cyl engine that needs high rpm for best performance. Pontiac says base manual-transmission Vibe takes about 9.5 sec 0-60 mph; expect the same of comparable Matrix. Both feel slower yet with automatic transmission, and passing power is tepid.
| Standard, auto. | Class Average |
| 4 | 4.6 |
Matrix and Vibe share a 4-cyl engine that needs high rpm for best performance. Pontiac says base manual-transmission Vibe takes about 9.5 sec 0-60 mph; expect the same of comparable Matrix. Both feel slower yet with automatic transmission, and passing power is tepid.
Fuel Economy
Test Matrix Standard with automatic transmission averaged 26.6 mpg. Expect the same of comparable Vibe. Matrix and Vibe use regular-grade fuel.
| Standard, auto. | Class Average |
| 7 | 6.5 |
Test Matrix Standard with automatic transmission averaged 26.6 mpg. Expect the same of comparable Vibe. Matrix and Vibe use regular-grade fuel.
Ride Quality
Absorbs most bumps nicely, especially with 16-inch tires. Optional 17-inch tires can trigger some jiggle over patchy pavement and freeway expansion breaks.
| Standard, auto. | Class Average |
| 5 | 5.3 |
Absorbs most bumps nicely, especially with 16-inch tires. Optional 17-inch tires can trigger some jiggle over patchy pavement and freeway expansion breaks.
Steering/Handling/Braking
These tall wagons are more prone to crosswind wander at highway speeds than lower-built small cars, but have responsive steering and assured cornering behavior with only moderate body lean. Optional 17-inch tires enhance grip. Only ABS-equipped models available for testing; they show good stopping performance.
| Standard, auto. | Class Average |
| 5 | 5.8 |
These tall wagons are more prone to crosswind wander at highway speeds than lower-built small cars, but have responsive steering and assured cornering behavior with only moderate body lean. Optional 17-inch tires enhance grip. Only ABS-equipped models available for testing; they show good stopping performance.
Quietness
Disappointing. Engine noisy, boomy at high rpm, none too relaxed in typical highway cruising. Noticeable wind rush and coarse-surface tire thrum, too.
| Standard, auto. | Class Average |
| 4 | 4.4 |
Disappointing. Engine noisy, boomy at high rpm, none too relaxed in typical highway cruising. Noticeable wind rush and coarse-surface tire thrum, too.
Controls
Matrix, Vibe share dashboard design. Smallish gauges set in deep tunnels, not that easy to see in some daytime conditions, and their bright trim rings can dazzle. Control layout simple, logical. Cabin design modern, youthful. Interior tightly assembled with sturdy materials in line with prices.
| Standard, auto. | Class Average |
| 6 | 5.9 |
Matrix, Vibe share dashboard design. Smallish gauges set in deep tunnels, not that easy to see in some daytime conditions, and their bright trim rings can dazzle. Control layout simple, logical. Cabin design modern, youthful. Interior tightly assembled with sturdy materials in line with prices.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Driving position more upright than in typical compact car. Fine head room, even beneath housing of sunroof. Lanky adults may wish for more leg-stretching space. Seats comfortable for long trips, but lack adequate lateral support for spirited driving. Visibility slightly cluttered over the shoulder, good otherwise.
| Standard, auto. | Class Average |
| 6 | 5.6 |
Driving position more upright than in typical compact car. Fine head room, even beneath housing of sunroof. Lanky adults may wish for more leg-stretching space. Seats comfortable for long trips, but lack adequate lateral support for spirited driving. Visibility slightly cluttered over the shoulder, good otherwise.
Room/Comfort (rear)
Enough head and leg room for two large adults, but knee clearance gets tight with front seatbacks reclined, and bench seat isn't that comfortable. Doors could open wider and need broader thresholds, but tall body minimizes stooping on entry/exit.
| Standard, auto. | Class Average |
| 5 | 4 |
Enough head and leg room for two large adults, but knee clearance gets tight with front seatbacks reclined, and bench seat isn't that comfortable. Doors could open wider and need broader thresholds, but tall body minimizes stooping on entry/exit.
Cargo Room
Front passenger seat folds flat for cargo-carrying versatility, as does split rear seat. Fine overall space for the exterior size. Cargo floor covered in durable plastic. Bountiful small-item storage includes large glovebox and underfloor spaces around spare tire.
| Standard, auto. | Class Average |
| 7 | 4.8 |
Front passenger seat folds flat for cargo-carrying versatility, as does split rear seat. Fine overall space for the exterior size. Cargo floor covered in durable plastic. Bountiful small-item storage includes large glovebox and underfloor spaces around spare tire.
Value within Class
With discontinuation of their all-wheel-drive models for 2007, Matrix and the Pontiac Vibe that shares its design lose much of their appeal as alternatives to compact SUVs. Their main assets--good utility and fuel economy--are intact. The gruff low-torque engine is a big debit, though. As a Pontiac, Vibe tends to carry deeper and more frequent discounts than the Matrix.
| Standard, auto. | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 |
With discontinuation of their all-wheel-drive models for 2007, Matrix and the Pontiac Vibe that shares its design lose much of their appeal as alternatives to compact SUVs. Their main assets--good utility and fuel economy--are intact. The gruff low-torque engine is a big debit, though. As a Pontiac, Vibe tends to carry deeper and more frequent discounts than the Matrix.
Total Score
| Standard, auto. | Class Average |
| 55 | 52.9 |
Scores for all Compact Cars
| Low Score | 42 | |
| Average Score | 52 | |
| High Score | 60 |
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2007 Toyota Matrix Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 01/24/2007
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
|
|
|||
| Standard 4-door wagon, manual | $15,410 | $14,254 | $620 |
|
|
|||
| Standard 4-door wagon, automatic | $16,210 | $14,994 | $620 |
|
|
|||
| XR 4-door wagon, manual | $16,890 | $15,283 | $620 |
|
|
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| XR 4-door wagon, automatic | $17,720 | $16,036 | $620 |
Price note: Prices are for vehicles distributed by Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. The dealer invoice and destination charge may be higher in areas served by independent distributors.
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
Standard
Powertrain
1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine, 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission.
Safety
Dual front airbags, tire-pressure monitor, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, interior air filter, power steering, tilt steering wheel, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, fold-flat passenger seat, center console, cupholders, split folding rear seat, AM/FM/CD player, digital clock, tachometer, outside-temperature indicator, intermittent wipers, cargo cover, rear defogger.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, 205/55R16 tires, wheel covers.
XR adds to Standard:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, height-adjustable driver seat, variable-intermittent wipers, map lights, intermittent rear wiper.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Power Pkg.
|
||
|
Standard manual
|
$480
|
$432
|
|
Standard automatic
|
$510
|
$459
|
|
Power windows and door locks, remote keyless entry.
|
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|
Extra Value Pkg. 1
|
||
|
XR
|
$270
|
$243
|
|
Cruise control, front and rear underbody spoilers, fog lights.
|
||
|
Extra Value Pkg. 2
|
||
|
XR
|
$880
|
$792
|
|
Extra Value Pkg. 1 plus power sunroof, alloy wheels.
|
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|
M-Theory Special Edition Pkg.
|
||
|
XR
|
$1,500
|
$1,200
|
|
4-wheel disc brakes, strut tower brace, unique interior and exterior trim, rear spoiler, chrome exhaust tip, 215/50R17 tires, alloy wheels. Requires Extra Value Pkg. 1, antilock brakes. NA w/antiskid system.
|
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|
All Weather Guard Pkg.
|
||
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Standard
|
$250
|
$207
|
|
XR
|
$70
|
$59
|
|
Heavy-duty heater, rear-seat heat ducts, intermittent rear wiper (Standard).
|
||
|
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Safety |
||
|
Front side impact airbags
|
||
|
Standard, XR
|
$645
|
$555
|
|
Includes curtain side airbags.
|
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Antilock brakes
|
||
|
Standard, XR
|
$390
|
$335
|
|
Antiskid system
|
||
|
Standard, XR
|
$650
|
$559
|
|
Requires antilock brakes. Standard requires Power Pkg. NA w/manual transmission.
|
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
||
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Power sunroof
|
||
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XR
|
$750
|
$600
|
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AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer
|
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XR
|
$240
|
$180
|
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JBL AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer
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XR
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$600
|
$450
|
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Cruise control
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Standard
|
$250
|
$200
|
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Intermittent rear wiper
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Standard
|
$180
|
$148
|
|
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
||
|
16-inch alloy wheels
|
||
|
Standard, XR
|
$410
|
$328
|
|
17-inch alloy wheels
|
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|
XR
|
$840
|
$672
|
|
Includes 215/50R17 tires. Requires antilock brakes. NA w/antiskid system.
|
||
|
|
||
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
2007 Toyota Matrix Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Toyota Matrix 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 102.4 |
| Overall Length, in. | 171.3 |
| Overall Width, in. | 69.9 |
| Overall Height, in. | 60.6 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 2679 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 53.2 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 13.2 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 40.6 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.8 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 39.8 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 36.3 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| dohc I4 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 1.8 /110 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 126 @ 6000 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 122 @ 4200 |
| Availability | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
|
| 5-speed manual | 30/36 |
| 4-speed automatic | 28/34 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Toyota Matrix 4-door wagon |
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 |
| Rollover Resistance | 4 |
| Side Impact, Driver | 3 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 4 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | 5/60,000 | For Highlander Hybrid, Prius, and Camry hybrid 8/100,000 on hybrid components. |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 3/36,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 5/unlimited | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | None/-- | Prius gets 3/36,000 Roadside Assistance. |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
Canada
Drivewheels:
front-wheel drive
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Also in the 2007 Toyota Matrix Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
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