2003 Toyota Matrix XRS Review, Price, Specs & Road Test

When the Matrix went on sale in early 2002, it represented the first Toyota designed for and targeted specifically at the Gen-X and Y crowd. Unusual looks, a sporty attitude, flexible interior packaging, and a cutting-edge ad campaign surrounded its release. The big question: Would the young 'uns buy it? They did, opening the door for Toyota to launch a third brand--the also-youth-aimed Scion.

After seeing and hearing the hype surrounding the Matrix, and knowing there'd be a Pontiac version, we were eager to try it on for a year to find out if it would live up to the promises. We opted for the top-of-the-line XRS, which includes the highest-output engine available: a 180-horsepower, DOHC VVT-i 1.8-liter inline-four. XRS models also receive sport-tuned suspension, front air dam, rear spoiler, and foglights--for a base price of $18,750. The only add-ons to our Cosmic Blue Metallic model were 17-inch alloy wheels and P215/50R17 tires ($150), an upgraded six-speaker stereo with AM/FM/in-dash six-disc changer ($100), and side airbags ($250). Including the $485 destination and delivery charge, the total came to a reasonable $19,735.

With 3800 miles already on the odometer, our test unit was broken in nicely when we started the year-long test. It didn't take much convincing for staffers to make use of the canyon-carving suspension. However, the noisy, thrashy engine and notchy clutch/shifter left some of us scratching our heads. One driver described the shifting as sounding like a "glunk, notch, crack, thump," although he thoroughly enjoyed scooting around town when it was finally in gear. It bogged a bit at launch unless you got the revs just right. The novel shifter location is cool once you get used to it, as the stick is an easy reach from the steering wheel. The low-profile tires contribute to the Matrix's competent handling, but reveal their presence in more-than-average road rumble.

Interior rattles, which we were surprised to find in a Toyota, plagued this particular Matrix, but the pleasant cabin design, excellent ergonomics, and impressive volume outweighed the quality-control questions. The design was pleasing to the eye, except at certain times of the day; the chrome-ringed instrument cluster caused squint-inducing hot spots. The 110-volt outlet makes so much sense, it made us wish every car had one. Materials held up well over the year-long test. The attractive, durable upholstery and plastic-coated cargo floor made outdoor adventures a stain- and rip-free experience--no seats were harmed during the testing of this vehicle.