Editors like Matrix for its hatchback versatility and all-wheel drive. It loses points, however, for its cheap interior and underwhelming fuel economy.
| TEST COMPLETE |
Sky-rocketing gas prices mean that the compact car class is hotter than ever, making Toyota's 2009 redesign of its Matrix very well timed. Like the previous-generation Matrix (2003-2008), the new car is essentially a tall-body wagon version of Toyota's compact Corolla sedan. Its size and hatchback body style make it versatile in terms of its people- and cargo-carrying abilities, and it is also small enough to easily maneuver through traffic and congested urban areas.
In order to see how the new Matrix stacks up against the previous generation and the current competition, we added an all-wheel drive Matrix S to our extended-use fleet. Our test vehicle is powered by a 158-horsepower 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission--the only engine/transmission combo available with AWD. Matrix's EPA estimated fuel economy is 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. Our test car is averaging 23.5 mpg. While that's not great for a compact car, it's decent for a vehicle equipped with all-wheel drive.
So far, our Matrix is getting mixed reviews. Its positive traits include impressive cargo-carrying capability and the added security of all-wheel drive. It also scores well on the fun-to-drive scale, earning praise for its power and ability to easily maneuver in traffic.
Most complaints center around a few quality issues. The doors close with a tinny sound, cabin materials look and feel cheap, and this test model is exhibiting assorted interior creaks and rattles. Poor rear visibility and a cargo cover that is chintzy and difficult to use are also flaws.
We like Matrix as a versatile compact hatchback with the added all-weather capability of all-wheel drive. Our test vehicle's lapses in workmanship and detailing are uncharacteristic for Toyota, and that leaves us scratching our heads a bit. We've had no mechanical problems thus far, and we hope it stays that way.
The Vehicle Body style: 4-door wagon Model: AWD S Engine: 158-horsepower 2.4-liter 4-cylinder Transmission: 4-speed automatic Base Price: $20,400 Major Options: Cruise control, traction control, antiskid system, carpeted floor mats, cargo mat Price as Tested: $21,759 Total Measured Miles: 12,675 Consumer Guide Observed Fuel Economy: 23.5 mpg Problems During Test: None Editors' Comments Damon Bell: The redesigned Matrix offers good cargo versatility, swoopy body styling, and the rare-for-the-class option of all-wheel drive. On our long-term AWD S tester, however, the ride and handling aren't as sporty as the styling might suggest, fuel economy is only so-so, and the thoroughly cost-cut interior makes the car feel like less of a bargain. John Biel: Even with a few useful extra-cost options like cruise control and antiskid/traction control (all of which are standard on the costlier XRS model), the sticker price with delivery on this test S AWD still stopped well short of $22,000. In return, drivers get an easy-handling, fairly roomy vehicle with a good number of comfort and convenience features. However, "fun" stuff like a navigation system, power sunroof, or alloy wheels can spike the tab more substantially and cut into the "good bargain" nature of the Matrix S. Rick Cotta: Aside from the overly high cowl and restricted rear-corner visibility, our extended-use AWD Matrix strikes me as a fine all-around car at a fairly reasonable price. Power is sufficient, ride and handling are pleasant, and its versatile cargo-carrying capability is enhanced by numerous in-cabin storage cubbies. Jennifer Geiger: Matrix is a surprisingly speedyish, relatively fun to drive compact, but its positive attributes are marred by build quality issues (persistent interior rattles and an overall sense of shoddiness), poor rear visibility, and substandard fuel economy. Twenty-one miles per gallon (what I averaged during my test) is disappointing and $21,759 is too much to spend on a car that feels this cheap. Ed Piotrowski: Matrix is another one of those bothersome vehicles where, for every positive attribute, there is at least one negative. This hatchback is practical, comfortable, and comes with the added benefit of all-wheel drive. At the same time, it doesn't ride or handle especially well. Further, its cheap-looking interior materials and random squeaks and rattles don't bode well for long-term durability, something that has been a Toyota hallmark for many years.
