2013 Toyota Matrix vs. Its Competition

Bengt Halvorson Senior Editor

The Toyota Matrix was, at one point just a few years ago, one of the only hatchback designs on the market.

But today there are quite a few possibilities.

The all-new Ford Focus is offered as a five-door hatchback, and it's more enjoyable to drive and has a more lavish interior than the Toyota.

Hyundai has also redesigned its Elantra Touring hatchback and now calls it the Elantra GT; as before it offers a sportier driving experience plus more versatility than the sedan.

Otherwise, the Kia Forte5 is sporty, well-equipped, and a strong value.

The Honda Fit is quite a bit smaller on the outside, yet its interior is quite a bit more usable and versatile than that of the Matrix--especially considering its trick 'Magic Seat' arrangement and low cargo floor.

Toyota has quite a bit of competition from its own vehicles, too, from the somewhat smaller Yaris, and from Toyota's own Prius and new Prius v; the Prius itself doesn't cost all that much more, yet it has much higher gas mileage.

Finally, the Mazda3 now offers a SkyActiv powertrain in some models that returns 40 mpg highway while offering a sportier driving experience than the Matrix.