2009 Toyota Matrix: Road Test
2009 Toyota Matrix ▼
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- MSRP: $16,290 - $21,950
- Invoice: $15,229 - $20,084
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Our road test for the 2009 Toyota Matrix includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Toyota Matrix from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Toyota Matrix, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Toyota Matrix help you decide if a 2009 Toyota Matrix is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| S, manual | AWD S | XRS, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
The Base model has not been made available for testing. S and XRS have adequate acceleration with the automatic transmission, though liberal use of the throttle is required for merging and passing maneuvers. Manual-transmission versions are not noticeably livelier. Though heavier, acceleration is little different in the AWD S.
FUEL ECONOMY
| S, manual | AWD S | XRS, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 6 | 7.1 |
In Consumer Guide testing, an S with manual transmission averaged 27.2 mpg in mostly highway driving. Our extended-use AWD S averaged 23.5 mpg over the course of its 12,653-mile evaluation. Matrix uses regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| S, manual | AWD S | XRS, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 4 | 5.2 |
Non-XRS front-drive Matrix models absorb small pavement imperfections well. On all, the ride gets stiff over sharp bumps. The AWD S and XRS suffer from some jiggle over patchy pavement and freeway expansion breaks.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| S, manual | AWD S | XRS, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 6 | 5.9 |
These tall wagons are more prone to crosswind wander at highway speeds than lower-built small cars. None has linear steering feel in turns. Fast cornering triggers noseplow and body lean in versions equipped with 16-inch tires, even with AWD. Grip and balance are sharper in the XRS. Fine around-town maneuverability. Braking control and pedal feel are good for the class.
QUIETNESS
| S, manual | AWD S | XRS, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.8 |
The 2.4-liter engine is raspy while accelerating, though it relaxes at highway speeds. Wind rush and road noise rise markedly at highway speeds on all models. Our extended-use AWD S suffered from excessive wind noise, more than other Matrix models we've tested.
CONTROLS
| S, manual | AWD S | XRS, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.9 |
The gauges are brightly lit, but indistinct markings on the speedometer sometimes require a second look away from the road. The center portion of the dashboard is canted toward the driver, but not enough to prevent outside light from washing out the radio display. Climate controls are large, accessible dials.
DETAILS
| S, manual | AWD S | XRS, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 5.1 |
All Matrix models look built to a price. A notable lack of padded surfaces; even the front center armrest is uncushioned plastic. Many panels have an attractive-enough molded-in grain, but the dashboard is dominated by smooth, silver-painted plastic that looks and feels cheap. Few materials feel substantial, and the doors close with a tinny clang. Our extended-use AWD S suffered from some misaligned interior panels and a number of intermittent interior squeaks and rattles.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| S, manual | AWD S | XRS, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.6 |
Toyota says the dashboard is shaped to impart a cockpit-style feel, but that dictates a wide center console that intrudes on driver knee space. Otherwise, Matrix makes good use of its tall design by furnishing generous headroom. Legroom is limited for taller drivers due to the seats' lack of rearward travel. The tilt and telescopic steering column and driver-seat height adjuster are comfort-enhancing standard features, though the tall doors and tapered roofline impart a slightly closed-in feel. Visibility is poor to the rear corners.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| S, manual | AWD S | XRS, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4 |
Enough legroom for two large adults, but knee clearance gets tight with front seatbacks reclined. Headroom is generous for six-footers. The seat is a bit too firm to be really comfortable. The doors could open wider and need broader thresholds, but the tall body minimizes stooping on entry and exit.
CARGO ROOM
| S, manual | AWD S | XRS, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 4.9 |
The front passenger seat folds flat on all but the base model for cargo-carrying versatility, as does the split rear seat. Cargo space is fine overall, given Matrix's exterior size. The cargo floor is covered in plastic that, while durable looking, causes items to slide easily. Interior storage consists of a small glovebox, center console, and door pockets. Matrix's dashboard design precludes any storage space in the front part of the console.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| S, manual | AWD S | XRS, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 5 | 6.6 |
Available all-wheel drive and sporty S and XRS models give Matrix a dimension absent in rivals such as the Mazda 3 and Nissan Versa. Young buyers that are Matrix's target audience might consider the odd interior shapes hip and the low-budget cabin decor a non-issue. They're also apt to find this small wagon easy to drive and roomy enough for friends and belongings. We choose the front-drive S model as the best blend of comfort and power.
Total Score
| S, manual | AWD S | XRS, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60 | 57 | 57 | 60.1 |
Total Score: 58
Scores for all Compact Cars
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