If you're looking to graduate from your Scion xD or xB, look no further than Toyota's second-gen Matrix. Self-described as a "sport/utility with coupelike design," Europeans would call this Corolla variation a hatchback (except it's not sold there). With its fierce-toaster nose, the Pontiac Vibe's brother aims itself at 25- to 30-year-old men.
Build variations are complicated: There are base, S, and XRS front drive, with five-speed manual or four-speed automatic, rear torsion beam on base and S; control-arm independent-rear on the XRS. And there's S all-wheel drive, with four-speed automatic only, and the IRS.
The Scion xD's 132-horsepower, 1.8-liter engine is standard, and the xB's 158-horsepower, 2.4-liter is optional, except that it's standard in the AWD S. Only Toyota (or GM in the old days) could pull off such complication.
Dynamics are simple: It's more fun to drive than either Scion or the Corolla, zipping around corners with controlled body roll like a decent sport/compact. Whether or not you need the hatchba...er, sport/utility's utility, it's the enthusiast's Corolla to have.
If you're looking to graduate from your Scion xD or xB, look no further than Toyota's second-gen Matrix. Self-described as a "sport/utility with coupelike design," Europeans would call this Corolla variation a hatchback (except it's not sold there). With its fierce-toaster nose, the Pontiac Vibe's brother aims itself at 25- to 30-year-old men.
Build variations are complicated: There are base, S, and XRS front drive, with five-speed manual or four-speed automatic, rear torsion beam on base and S; control-arm independent-rear on the XRS. And there's S all-wheel drive, with four-speed automatic only, and the IRS.
The Scion xD's 132-horsepower, 1.8-liter engine is standard, and the xB's 158-horsepower, 2.4-liter is optional, except that it's standard in the AWD S. Only Toyota (or GM in the old days) could pull off such complication.
2009 Toyota Matrix
Base price $16,000 (est)
Vehicle layout Front engine, FWD or AWD, 5-pass, 4-door hatchback
Engines 1.8L/132-hp/128-lb-ft DOHC 16-valve I-4; 2.4L/158-hp/162-lb-ft DOHC 16-valve I-4
Transmissions 5-speed manual; 4-speed automatic
Curb weight 2850-3250 lb (mfr)
Wheelbase 102.4 in
Length x width x height 171.9 x 69.5 x 61.0 in
0-60 mph 8.8-10.5 sec (MT est)
EPA city/hwy fuel econ 20-26/26-32 mpg
CO2 emissions 0.68-0.87 lb/mile
On sale in U.S. February 2008