2007 Toyota Matrix

Vehicle Overview
Toyota introduced its youth-focused Matrix as an early 2003 model. Described as a crossover utility vehicle, the Matrix was said to combine the functionality of a sport utility vehicle with the image and performance of a sports car. That's no longer the case, as the 2007 model year sees the end of its high-performance XRS variant and optional all-wheel-drive system. Pontiac markets a related Vibe model.
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finishline - 7/6/2007 4:55:23 PM

+1 Boost

So they aren't redoing this thing until the '09 model?

Agent63 - 7/7/2007 8:13:39 AM

+1 Boost

All it is is just a Corolla isn't it? it still looks horrible.

truckmen - 7/8/2007 4:49:26 AM

+1 Boost

What a pathetic engine when compared to the Honda's 1.8L with 140HP compared to the corola's 126hp! It is also a fact that the Matiix is not very good on gas either or as safe as the Honda Civic! Nice space though!

Whelan - 8/1/2007 11:53:49 AM

+1 Boost

The 1.8L 1ZZ engine produces 130hp (126 by the new numbers). I have an 05 XR AWD model with just over 50,000 miles on it. I realize it is not the fastest car of the group but I wasn't looking for it to be. My fuel mileage has been on average 25-27mpg city and about 32mpg highway when taking extended trips. The tank is approximately 12 gallons (of which I fill 11). It is a smaller tank than the non AWD models due to the transfer case. But I still pull 300 city and 360 or so highway consistently.

I travel about 50 miles round trip to work each day in traffic and do my fair share of driving at night and on weekends. The car is extremely comfortable and runs perfect. The interior is well appointed and the lighting is very nice (red/white). I have the moonroof, 6 disc in dash CD changer, lip kit, side skirts, 16" alloy wheels, fog lamps, a 12-volt two prong outlet (plug in your laptop, phone, etc. without a car adapter) and plenty of storage space.

Speaking of storage I can manage an 8' ladder with the hatch closed and have carried numerous large items including a kitchen table with 4 chairs in one shot. The rear seats fold completely flat, the passenger seat folds flat as well giving immense storage. There are built in tracks on the cargo area that came with tie downs and straps for holding cargo which is a great help. Not to mention the two storage areas on either side of the hatch and the space underneath by the spare tire which has a plastic covering with separate storage compartments.

I know I am ranting at this point, but I used to own a 2002 Civic EX Coupe 5spd. Yes the car was faster, but my life has changed and so have my needs. Driving to work in New England weather in the winter, I needed AWD and not a car that would ski across the road. I needed more cargo room since I will be married soon and possibly kids and trips. I did not need speed, the car looks phenomenal based on my other competitors. I looked at the Mazda 3 hatch (too small, no AWD) and the Subaru 2.5 wagon (very much a wagon, ugly, bad mpg). And I was not even going to look at the HHR or PT, they are fugly beyond belief. Not to mention again the AWD was a key thing.

Sorry for the ranting, but as an owner I love my Matrix, and it has proven to be a fantastic car!