Not only did the Matrix humbly sip away on fuel, it also had a nice selection of standard features including air conditioning, an
AM/FM audio system with a CD player, cruise control, power door locks, power windows, side skirts, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, keyless entry with hatch release and more. The Matrix is everything that a 5-door economy wagon should be. It has a wonderful interior, a sizeable engine and some great standard features. But I had a few tiny quibbles with it. And when I say tiny, I mean I am really looking for things to make it not-so-perfect. I found that the emergency brake didn't lie flat when it was completely released. This often made me second guess if I had fully lowered it. Also, the cargo cover in the trunk was a little bit of a pain to put on as it needed to be hooked on in multiple places. But really, these are things that I got over very quickly.
I won't however, quickly get over what a practical car the Matrix is. The fact that it's totally cool doesn't hurt either.
Specifications (XR):
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| Totally cool as well as practical? The Matrix is everything that a 5-door economy wagon should be. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press) |
I won't however, quickly get over what a practical car the Matrix is. The fact that it's totally cool doesn't hurt either.
Specifications (XR):
- Price Range (MSRP): $21,185 - $25,845
- Body Type: 5-door SUV
- Layout: front engine, FWD (opt 4WD)
- Base Engine: 130 hp, 125 lb-ft of torque, 1.8-L, 16-valve, DOHC I-4
- 4WD Engine: 123 hp, 118 lb-ft of torque, 1.8-L, 16-valve, DOHC 1-4
- Transmission: 5-spd manual (optional 4-spd auto)
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/drum (opt ABS)
- Curb Weight: 1,211 kg (2,670 lb)
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Cargo Cap (min/max): 428 / 1,506 L (15.1 / 53.2 cu ft)
- Ground Clearance: 151 mm (5.9 in)
- Towing Capacity: 680 kg (1,500 lb)
- Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 8.2 / 6.3 L/100 (34 / 45 mpg)
- Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
- Direct Competitors: Chevrolet Optra Wagon, Chrysler PT Cruiser, Ford Focus Wagon, Mazda3 Sport, [link artid="55853"]Pontiac Vibe[/link], Suzuki Aerio, VW Golf Wagon
- Web Site: www.toyota.ca
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