Toyota has been on a roll for the last three years, developing new products in order to cover the most vehicles categories as possible. As a result, sales are constantly rising, and the Japanese automaker has become number one globally.
But there are still vehicle segments in which Toyota just can't master. In Canada, for example, GM rolls out 8 full-size pickups and Ford sells 7 F-Series at the same time that Toyota can sell one Tundra. But where Toyota is really missing the boat and watching it sail away in the sunset, it's the sports car segment.
While they figure out a miracle move, the company is bringing back the XRS versions of the Corolla and Matrix from the grave, in order to add a little excitement in dealer showrooms.
Sporty, but not sport
After a two-year hiatus for the XRS versions, the Matrix lineup is back and totally redesigned, and gets a sporty version once again. The old 1.8-liter, high-revving and high-output engine, which redlined at 8,300 rpm, is ditched in favour of a 16-valve, 2.4-liter unit that's found in the Camry, notably.
Okay, the new engine produces less horsepower than the old XRS (158 versus 164), but a lot more low-rpm torque (162 lb-ft vs. 125); that's more practical during normal driving. So, we end up with an engine that's smoother and quieter. The 5-speed manual is also easier to live with than the old 6-speed.
Performance-wise, the new XRS isn't quicker than the 2006 model, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds. Fuel consumption is averaging 10.6 L/100 km, which is okay but nothing impressive. The engine takes regular gasoline; the previous XRS required super unleaded.
On the road, the Matrix XRS handles itself pretty well, being predictable and dynamic. However, its economy-car roots can't make it a real sports car. In addition, the 18-inch wheels and low-profile tires give the car a slightly harsh ride, which is to be expected.
But there are still vehicle segments in which Toyota just can't master. In Canada, for example, GM rolls out 8 full-size pickups and Ford sells 7 F-Series at the same time that Toyota can sell one Tundra. But where Toyota is really missing the boat and watching it sail away in the sunset, it's the sports car segment.
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| Toyota is bringing back the XRS versions of the Corolla and Matrixfrom the grave, in order to add a little excitement in dealer showrooms. |
While they figure out a miracle move, the company is bringing back the XRS versions of the Corolla and Matrix from the grave, in order to add a little excitement in dealer showrooms.
Sporty, but not sport
After a two-year hiatus for the XRS versions, the Matrix lineup is back and totally redesigned, and gets a sporty version once again. The old 1.8-liter, high-revving and high-output engine, which redlined at 8,300 rpm, is ditched in favour of a 16-valve, 2.4-liter unit that's found in the Camry, notably.
Okay, the new engine produces less horsepower than the old XRS (158 versus 164), but a lot more low-rpm torque (162 lb-ft vs. 125); that's more practical during normal driving. So, we end up with an engine that's smoother and quieter. The 5-speed manual is also easier to live with than the old 6-speed.
Performance-wise, the new XRS isn't quicker than the 2006 model, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds. Fuel consumption is averaging 10.6 L/100 km, which is okay but nothing impressive. The engine takes regular gasoline; the previous XRS required super unleaded.
On the road, the Matrix XRS handles itself pretty well, being predictable and dynamic. However, its economy-car roots can't make it a real sports car. In addition, the 18-inch wheels and low-profile tires give the car a slightly harsh ride, which is to be expected.
 |
| The old 1.8-liter is ditched in favour of a 16-valve, 2.4-liter unit that'sfound in the Camry, notably. |