Newcomers: 2009 Toyota Matrix
Growth spurt
By Todd Lassa
If you're looking to graduate from your Scion xD or xB, look no further than Toyota's second-gen Matrix. Self-described as a "sport/utility with coupelike design," Europeans would call this Corolla variation a hatchback (except it's not sold there). With its fierce-toaster nose, the Pontiac Vibe's brother aims itself at 25- to 30-year-old men.
Build variations are complicated: There are base, S, and XRS front drive, with five-speed manual or four-speed automatic, rear torsion beam on base and S; control-arm independent-rear on the XRS. And there's S all-wheel drive, with four-speed automatic only, and the IRS.
The Scion xD's 132-horsepower, 1.8-liter engine is standard, and the xB's 158-horsepower, 2.4-liter is optional, except that it's standard in the AWD S. Only Toyota (or GM in the old days) could pull off such complication.
Dynamics are simple: It's more fun to drive than either Scion or the Corolla, zipping around corners with controlled body roll like a decent sport/compact. Whether or not you need the hatchba...er, sport/utility's utility, it's the enthusiast's Corolla to have.
| 2009 Toyota Matrix |
| Base price | $16,000 (est) |
| Vehicle layout | Front engine, FWD or AWD, 5-pass, 4-door hatchback |
| Engines | 1.8L/132-hp/128-lb-ft DOHC 16-valve I-4; 2.4L/158-hp/162-lb-ft DOHC 16-valve I-4 |
| Transmissions | 5-speed manual; 4-speed automatic |
| Curb weight | 2850-3250 lb (mfr) |
| Wheelbase | 102.4 in |
| Length x width x height | 171.9 x 69.5 x 61.0 in |
| 0-60 mph | 8.8-10.5 sec (MT est) |
| EPA city/hwy fuel econ | 20-26/26-32 mpg |
| CO2 emissions | 0.68-0.87 lb/mile |
| On sale in U.S. | February 2008 |