Toyota Matrix History
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The Toyota Matrix is a compact hatchback introduced by Toyota back in 2003. The vehicle was spawned from a joint venture between Toyota and General Motors and was assembled by the New United Motor Manufacturing, Inc. (NUMMI) in Fremont, California. The GM version was sold as the now defunct Pontiac Vibe.
The Toyota Matrix is essentially a tall hatchback version of the Corolla sedan with which it shares its platform, though it's shorter and has a more flexible interior thanks to its hatchback design. Pricing starts at $16,700, which is slightly more expensive than rivals like the Scion xD, Honda Fit and Mazda3.
The first generation of the Matrix was introduced for the 2003 model year and remained relatively unchanged until a minor facelift was introduced for 2005. Two different models were on offer, both of which came with a 1.8-liter engine. There was a base version with 130 horsepower and a high-performance model with 180 horsepower called the XRS. This latter variant was powered by the same 1.8-liter engine found in the Toyota Celica. The power figures were slightly revised in 2004 and 2005, mostly due to new testing standards rather than a change in the engine's actual performance. A special edition Matrix M-Theory package was the big change for the otherwise carryover 2007 model. This model came with 17 inch wheels, a sports turned suspension and came in an exclusive Speedway Blue paint scheme. It essentially replaced the sporty XRS model, which was dropped after the 2006 model year along with the all-wheel drive option.
A second generation was introduced for 2009 complete with a new look, more standard safety features, and more power on tap from a 158 horsepower 2.4-liter engine. The base model continued with a 1.8–liter engine, while new S and XRS variants featured the 2.4-liter engine. The all-wheel drive option also returned with this new model.
Few changes were introduced on the 2010 Toyota Matrix. Base models have a 132 horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, while S and XRS models get a larger 2.4-liter engine making 158 horsepower. The most fuel efficient model is the 1.8-liter model equipped with the standard five-speed manual. It returns an EPA-rated 26 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. Remaining as an option is a four-speed automatic.
The NUMMI joint venture ceased in 2010 and there are currently no plans for a new model. Interestingly, another version of the Toyota Matrix built at NUMMI was exported to Japan and sold as the Voltz but production stopped after just 2,000 units were completed.
