Toyota Matrix (2007)

Price: $15,410 – $16,890

Snapshot
EPA Fuel Economy: City: 29 – 30 Highway: 34 – 36
Available Engines: 126-hp, 1.8-liter I-4
Available Transmissions: 4-speed automatic w/OD
5-speed manual w/OD

New or Notable
FWD or AWD
Hatchback body style
Manual or automatic
Versatile interior layout

What We Like
Interior space
Highway stability
Toyota reputation for reliability
Resale value

What We Don't
Instrument readability
Engine and road noise
Engine performance with automatic

Vehicle Summary
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.

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.

High headroom and flexible seating positions are among the Matrix's remaining notable attributes. Two trim levels are available: base and step-up XR. A special-edition M-Theory package attempts to restore some of the XRS' luster with upgraded wheels, paint and brakes — though it's more show than go, as Toyota's high-performance 1.8-liter inline-four is gone from the picture. Toyota will limit M-Theory production to 2,500 units.

An electronic stability system and six-CD stereo are among the notable options.

Exterior
The Matrix hatchback is built on a platform similar to the one used for Toyota's popular Corolla sedan. Measuring 171.3 inches long overall, the Matrix has a 102.4-inch wheelbase and stands 61.6 inches tall. Base wheels measure 16 inches in diameter. The M-Theory edition adds 17-inch alloy wheels, four-wheel-disc brakes, a rear spoiler and a strut tower brace under the hood for reduced body roll.

Interior
The Matrix seats up to five people. With the rear seats folded, cargo capacity measures 53.2 cubic feet. Standard equipment includes air conditioning, intermittent wipers, a CD player and a tilt steering wheel. The XR adds remote keyless entry, a sport steering wheel, driver's seat height adjustment, and power windows, locks and mirrors.

Under the Hood
The 1.8-liter four-cylinder produces 126 horsepower. Either a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission can be installed.

Safety
Side-impact and side curtain airbags are optional. Optional antilock brakes are disc/drum on base and XR models, and all-disc with the M-Theory. An electronic stability system is also optional.

Driving Impressions
The Matrix is stylish, well-built and nicely designed, but it's somewhat noisy. It's quiet enough when cruising, but the engine may growl and whine during acceleration. Road noise is also noticeable. The engine teamed with the automatic transmission doesn't have much oomph, either. Automatic-transmission gear changes are noticeable but not bothersome.

Stability is good, and it's easy to keep the Matrix on course. It steers with more precision and less wheel vibration than the Corolla, but still falls short of stimulating.

Dodge Caliber vs Toyota Matrix

Cost
The destination charge is a standard charge for transporting the vehicle from its point of origin to the dealer. It costs roughly the same to get the Dodge Caliber to the dealership as the Toyota Matrix. The Toyota Matrix isn't much less expensive than the Dodge Caliber when it comes to MSRP. The Dodge Caliber will cost you a bundle in gas every year compared to the Matrix.

Utility
There's no obvious winner between the Matrix and the Dodge Caliber regarding transporting cargo. The Dodge and the Toyota Matrix can accommodate the same number of passengers.

Comfort
While the front cabin in the Toyota Matrix offers a bit more head room than the Dodge, there honestly isn't much of a difference. While the rear of the Toyota Matrix offers a bit more head- and leg-room than the Dodge, there frankly isn't much of a difference.

Dimensions
The Dodge Caliber is considerably heavier than the Toyota Matrix. The Toyota Matrix's tank is about the same size as the Dodge Caliber's, though the Dodge Caliber's is a little larger. The Caliber rides lower than the Toyota Matrix, which is a good thing for its center of gravity and ease of access. The Toyota Matrix and the Dodge Caliber compete for the same parking spaces.

Performance
In terms of horsepower, the Dodge Caliber packs quite a wallop and will knock the Toyota down a few rungs. On the other hand, remember that high horsepower engines often command higher insurance premiums.

Handling
The Dodge Caliber and the Toyota Matrix have roughly similar tires.

Drivetrain
The Toyota Matrix's engine is considerably smaller than the Dodge's. Remember that smaller engines can be stressed more; on the flip side, smaller engines are often cheaper to fix. Torque equals pickup, and the Dodge Caliber will have picked up and gone by the time the Toyota Matrix finally gets moving. Torque is roughly equivalent to acceleration, and in this respect, the Dodge is markedly more powerful than the Toyota Matrix.