The second generation fuel-stingy Toyota Matrix crossover has more power and slightly revised styling, but no appreciable change in size despite being about 200 pounds heavier.
The new Matrix retains its utilitarian nature and rather plain styling. But it's roomy despite its compact size. (The 2009 Pontiac Vibe is a Matrix that shares a Toyota-sourced design, but differs in appearance and features.)
The Matrix delivers especially good estimated fuel economy with its base 132-horsepower four-cylinder engine: 26 mpg in the city and 32 on highways with a manual gearbox and 25 and 31 with an automatic transmission.
Returning for 2009 are an all-wheel-drive (AWD) S version and performance-oriented XRS model, which were dropped for 2007. They have a larger, 158-horsepower four-cylinder and provide 21 mpg in the city and 28 on highways with the manual and 21 and 29 with an automatic transmission. (Figures with AWD, which comes only with an automatic, are 20 and 26.) Only 87-octane gasoline is needed.
The Matrix is essentially a high-body hatchback crossover version of Toyota's popular Corolla sedan, also redone for 2009. Toyota refers to the Matrix as the Corolla Matrix, if only to increase the popular Corolla's sales figures.
The five-passenger Matrix comes in Base, sportier S and top-line XRS trim levels. All have a standard five-speed manual transmission, as did my test front-drive Matrix S. The Base version is offered with a four-speed automatic, as is the AWD S, but the front-drive S and XRS can be had with a smooth five-speed automatic.
The Base lists from $16,190-$17,000, while the S costs $18,260-19,450, with the AWD model at $20,400. The XRS goes from $20,660 to $21,850.
Even the Base version is fairly well-equipped, with air conditioning, tilt/telescope wheel, front bucket seats with a height-adjustable driver's seat, console, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, intermittent wipers, rear defogger and a split/folding rear seat for more cargo room. It also has power mirrors.
A Matrix buyer must move up to the S to get standard power windows and door locks with remote keyless entry, although those items are offered for the Base model in a Power package that costs $990 for the Base with a manual gearbox and $1,020 with an automatic. I doubt that many Toyota dealers will offer a Matrix without power windows and locks.
The S also adds such items as front/rear underbody spoilers and fog lamps for the AWD model. The XRS adds a sport suspension, rear spoiler, cruise control and a leather-wrapped wheel with radio controls.
The variety of options includes a tilt/slide power sunroof (for S and XRS), upscale sound systems and a navigation system, which is a first-time Matrix option that's $1,300 for the XRS and $1,520 for the S.
Standard safety features include front- and curtain-side air bags, anti-lock disc brakes with brake assist and electronic brake force distribution. The XRS adds vehicle stability and traction control systems, which are $250 for Base and S versions.
The Base model has a 1.8-liter dual-overhead-camshaft four-cylinder, while the S and XRS are powered by a 2.4-liter with twin overhead camshafts. All have front-wheel drive, but all-wheel drive is available for the S version, which has the five-speed automatic.
The 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine provides the fastest acceleration (0-60 mph in 7.7 seconds versus 10 seconds for the 1.8-liter engine and is better able to handle the increased weight of the new Matrix. A downshift is needed from overdrive fifth gear to fourth for good passing times on highways.
Wheels are pulled to the far body corners for better stability and an improved ride. The all-wheel-drive S version and XRS models have an independent rear suspension, which provides slightly better handling. All versions have decent handling and a firm-but-supple ride, which becomes bouncy on some roads. The XRS also has 18-inch alloy wheels and wider (45-series tires) for more athletic moves. Base models have 16-inch wheels and narrower 55-series tires.
Steering is geared for quick responsiveness, and the brake pedal has a linear action for smooth stops. The manual shifter works precisely with a light, but long-throw, clutch.
Outside door handles are user-friendly, and a tall height makes it easy to get in and out, besides enhancing occupant and cargo space. The interior has a so-so appearance, but the back seat is roomy, and the cargo area is large. Its plastic floor covering is durable but can scratch cargo. Split rear seatbacks fold flat for added cargo room, and a low, wide hatch opening eases loading and unloading. All doors have storage pockets and beverage holders, and the glove compartment is spacious.
Backlit gauges are easily read, and front seats are supportive. However, taller drivers with long legs will wish their seat would slide back farther. Most controls are conveniently placed, and climate controls are especially large. However, radio controls might be a stretch for those with shorter arms. Front/rear cupholders are positioned to avoid spills.
The Matrix should appeal to those who want a fuel-stingy utilitarian vehicle that's generally fun to drive. Its model range and available all-wheel drive should help keep it popular.
DriveLive around Chicago in a VW Eos
