
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.
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Quick Specs | ||||
With the frugality of a Corolla and hatchback versatility, the 2013 Toyota Matrix delivers on practicality but falls short if you expect a hot hatch. |
Whether or not you consider the exciting new ST performance model, the 2013 Ford Focus lineup is evidence that small cars don't have to feel so appliance-like. |
If you're not turned off by the utilitarian look of the 2013 Honda Fit, you'll like what you get, which is awesome practicality and space-efficiency, plus some driving verve. |
It's a family affair: the Kia Forte lineup is more comfortable, more eager, and better finished than ever, and a step up from what its sticker price might suggest. |
The 2013 Mazda 3 drives with a lot more sophistication and verve than you might expect for a small car this affordable, practical, and fuel-efficient. |
MSRP From | ||||
$19,275 | $16,200 | $15,425 | $15,400 | $16,700 |
Gas Mileage | ||||
20 MPG City / 32 MPG Hwy | 23 MPG City / 38 MPG Hwy | 27 MPG City / 35 MPG Hwy | 22 MPG City / 36 MPG Hwy | 18 MPG City / 40 MPG Hwy |
Engine | ||||
Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 |
EPA Class | ||||
Small Station Wagon | Compact | Small Station Wagon | Compact Cars | Compact |
Style Name | ||||
5-Door Wagon Manual L FWD (Natl) | 4-Door Sedan S | 5-Door HB Manual | 4-Door Sedan Manual LX | 4-Door Sedan Manual i SV |
Drivetrain | ||||
Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive |
Passenger Capacity | ||||
5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Passenger Doors | ||||
N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Body Style | ||||
5 Door Wagon | Sedan | Hatchback | 4 Door Sedan | Sedan |
Transmission | ||||
Manual | Manual | Manual | Manual | Manual |
Detailed Spec Comparison | ||||
2013 Toyota Matrix vs. 2013 Ford Focus | 2013 Toyota Matrix vs. 2013 Honda Fit | 2013 Toyota Matrix vs. 2013 Kia Forte | 2013 Toyota Matrix vs. 2013 Mazda MAZDA3 |