Available in the XRS-designated models, the high-revving 1.8 liter four-banger made as much as 180 horsepower- though output ratings vary from year to year. This engine was dropped around 2006, leaving shoppers the sole option of another 1.8 liter engine with about 130 horsepower.
Transmission choices were a four-speed automatic or a five-speed manual, though XRS models with the high performance engine came with a six-speed stick. The manual gearbox is recommended for extracting maximum performance from the Matrix's little engines.
Inside, look for options like a 6-CD changer, outside temperature display, a powered sunroof and a full list of 'standard' power accessories. Nothing special in the cabin, but the basics are covered well.
Owners and reviewers of this car are generally impressed by several of its attributes. Powerful headlights and brakes add notable peace of mind during nighttime driving, and Matrix was also available with safety hardware like ABS brakes and tire pressure monitoring. Side-airbags weren't offered, though crash ratings were reasonable.
Fuel consumption is reasonable too. Expect real-life mileage to average about 8.5-9.5L / 100km in combined city and highway driving. That's not bad at all for a vehicle that can carry a four-person complement and some gear around in relative comfort. Matrix is slower and less powerful than most vehicles in its class, but it's one of the best when it comes time to fill up. Most owners report that visits to the garage are appreciably few and far between, too.
In addition to Matrix's sensibility and reliable operation, it's largely the overall flexibility and adaptability of the car that have earned it so many followers. There are plenty of storage compartments inside, in addition to the generous trunk.
Matrix owner 'rosemurray' summed up her ride online as the 'best car' she'd owned after over 3 decades and a dozen vehicles. She's particularly fond of the Matrix's visibility and low maintenance costs, she says.
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| In the XRS-designated models, the high-revving 1.8 liter four-banger made as much as 180 horsepower. |
Transmission choices were a four-speed automatic or a five-speed manual, though XRS models with the high performance engine came with a six-speed stick. The manual gearbox is recommended for extracting maximum performance from the Matrix's little engines.
Inside, look for options like a 6-CD changer, outside temperature display, a powered sunroof and a full list of 'standard' power accessories. Nothing special in the cabin, but the basics are covered well.
Owners and reviewers of this car are generally impressed by several of its attributes. Powerful headlights and brakes add notable peace of mind during nighttime driving, and Matrix was also available with safety hardware like ABS brakes and tire pressure monitoring. Side-airbags weren't offered, though crash ratings were reasonable.
Fuel consumption is reasonable too. Expect real-life mileage to average about 8.5-9.5L / 100km in combined city and highway driving. That's not bad at all for a vehicle that can carry a four-person complement and some gear around in relative comfort. Matrix is slower and less powerful than most vehicles in its class, but it's one of the best when it comes time to fill up. Most owners report that visits to the garage are appreciably few and far between, too.
In addition to Matrix's sensibility and reliable operation, it's largely the overall flexibility and adaptability of the car that have earned it so many followers. There are plenty of storage compartments inside, in addition to the generous trunk.
Matrix owner 'rosemurray' summed up her ride online as the 'best car' she'd owned after over 3 decades and a dozen vehicles. She's particularly fond of the Matrix's visibility and low maintenance costs, she says.
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| 2005 Toyota Matrix |