2003 toyota Matrix Mpg

2003 toyota matrix mpg: Toyota started delivering its brand-new youth-focused Matrix to dealerships in February 2002 as a very early 2003 version. Called a crossover utility lorry, the Japanese automaker claims the Matrix incorporates the capability of a sport utility vehicle with the image and efficiency of a sports car, yet it's as inexpensive as a subcompact sedan. "Young purchasers desire lorries that are high in image as well as high in practical utility," claims Don Esmond, general supervisor of Toyota Department.

As a result of its functional wagonlike configuration, cars.com positions the Matrix hatchback-- as well as the carefully related Pontiac Ambiance-- in the wagon classification. Styled by Toyota's CALTY Style Studio in Newport Coastline, Calif., the four-door Matrix follows the firm's street-performance utility style.

High clearance and also adaptable seatsing placements are among the Matrix's special qualities. Three trim degrees are available: criterion, the step-up XR and also the high-performance XRS. The criterion as well as XR designs might be furnished with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD). The XRS sporting activity model comes only with FWD and loads an additional 50 horse power and also a six-speed-manual transmission-- a powertrain obtained from Toyota's Celica GT-S sport sports car. The Matrix is produced in Ontario, Canada.

2003 toyota matrix mpg

Outside

The Matrix's standard look most resembles a little wagon-- a body style that seems making a modest return. Although the system is new, it resembles the one used by Toyota's preferred subcompact Corolla car. Hints of the sporty Lexus IS 300 are evident in the Matrix's front end. Toyota says the "edge-web" body panels have sharp surface area sides, however they display rounded weblike contours planned to produce strong, flowing personality lines.

Typical tires gauge 16 inches in diameter, and the XR and also XRS can have optional 17-inchers. Alloy wheels are optional on the criterion as well as XR versions, as well as they are typical on the XRS, which likewise includes haze lights, a front spoiler and also a back underbody spoiler.

Interior

The Matrix seats 5 residents, as well as the rear seats fold up right down to create a level floor. A sliding track in the cargo flooring can be adapted to hold various way of living devices. The driver faces deep-set Optitron assesses, and also a navigation system is optional.

Basic equipment includes a/c with an air filter, power mirrors, periodic wipers and also a freight cover. The XR adds power windows and door locks, keyless entrance, a sport guiding wheel and also a vertical seat-height insurance adjuster. A four-speaker CD stereo is typical, yet the XRS gets a six-speaker cassette and also CD system. Optimum cargo volume with the seats folded up down is 53.2 cubic feet.

Under the Hood

The criterion as well as XR versions get a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 130 hp; designs outfitted with 4WD generate 123 hp. Dealing with variable shutoff technology (VVT-i), the engine fulfills Ultra Low Emissions Car (ULEV) demands. Either a four-speed-automatic or five-speed-manual transmission can be set up.

Available just with FWD, the XRS carries a 180-hp variation of the 1.8-liter engine and a close-ratio six-speed-manual transmission. Toyota's 4WD system has no center differential but makes use of a thick coupling. If any wheel slides, as much as HALF of torque mosts likely to the back wheels.

Safety and security

Anti-skid brakes are standard in the XRS and optional in the standard and XR versions. Side-impact air bags are offered as a choice.

Driving Impressions

The Matrix is well built, well made and also elegant, however early drives created a slightly unpleasant surprise for a Toyota item: noise. It is quiet enough while travelling, however the 130-hp engine yielded considerably much more audio compared to a Corolla throughout velocity, discharging a growly and also virtually whiny audio. Road sound is also visible. The base engine in versions outfitted with the transmission isn't loaded with oomph. Equipment modifications are recognizable yet not troublesome.

Security excels, as well as it's easy to keep the Matrix on program. Steering with more precision and less wheel resonance compared to the Corolla, it still falls a bit except boosting, though the XRS is more fine-tuned.

Despite a sunroof, front headroom is very good. Backseat room defeats the Corolla's, and also there's a lot more clearance than the reduced roofline suggests. Because the navigating system does not have a touchscreen, it's not as easy to use as some systems on the market.

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