Toyota Matrix

Angular Front Exterior View - 2010 Toyota Matrix 5dr Wagon Auto FWD (Natl)

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Shopping for a 2012 Toyota Matrix? MSRP: $18,845 - $21,715

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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, until that plant was closed. The GM version was sold as the now defunct Pontiac Vibe; production through the 2012 model year took place at Toyota's Ontario assembly plant.

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 had a 132-horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, while S and XRS models got a larger 2.4-liter engine making 158 horsepower. The most fuel-efficient model was the 1.8-liter model equipped with the standard five-speed manual. It returned an EPA-rated 26 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. Remaining as an option was a four-speed automatic.

Toyota dropped the XRS model for the 2011 model year. The Matrix was sold essentially unchanged through the 2012 model year; there's no confirmation on a replacement.

Angular Rear Exterior View - 2010 Toyota Matrix 5dr Wagon Auto FWD (Natl)

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