Toyota Canada today revealed details of the all-new 2003 Toyota Matrix, a compact 5-passenger crossover vehicle that blendsthe best elements of several popular automotive segments and which some thinkactually invents a new category for itself - the "crossover utility vehicle"CUV.
"With Matrix, we're aiming to capture the hearts and minds of a whole newgeneration of Toyota owners with a unique blend of dynamic power, SUVversatility and compact-car affordability," said Tony Wearing, Group VicePresident in charge of Vehicle Sales and Marketing at Toyota Canada Inc.
Wearing added, "The significant advantages of this new concept include nolonger having to choose between practicality and fun, or to trade performancefor versatility, because you have them all in Matrix."
Offered in both front-wheel drive (FWD) or with Toyota's V-Flex 4-wheeldrive system (4WD), Matrix can be equipped with a choice of engines, providingup to 130 horsepower for lively family car capability or 180 horsepower forpotent, sporty performance.
"When Matrix goes on sale in early February of 2002, it will offer, at areasonable cost, a completely new choice for those who want uncompromisingsafety, quality and ease of ownership plus a high level of performance,"continued Wearing. "We expect the 4-wheel drive model to be especiallyattractive to the growing number of drivers who want the confidence that 4-wheel drive stability gives them combined with the ride, handling and comfortbenefits that are inherent in a car platform."