2009 toyota Matrix S

2009 toyota matrix s: The Toyota Matrix has constantly been a practical choice-- sensible as well as sturdy, but inevitably much less interesting compared to its voguish designing recommends. With its 2009 redesign, the hatchback holds to those roots: A bigger engine raises the efficiency bar a couple of notches, but utility is still nitty-gritty. This car is worth a look, yet with rivals encroaching from every side, it does not bring as much to the area as it as soon as did.


2009 toyota matrix s


The Matrix comes in 3 trim levels: the standard Criterion, a better-equipped S and also a sportier XRS. All-wheel drive is optional on the Matrix S.The Matrix shares roots with the Toyota Corolla and also Successor xB, as well as Pontiac markets a relevant hatchback in the Vibe.

I drove a front-wheel-drive Matrix S with a manual transmission.

Just how it Actions

A lot of trim degrees have Toyota's 2.4-liter four-cylinder, which supplies a healthy 158 horsepower. A 132-hp four-cylinder comes just on the base model, as well as handbook or transmissions are available with either engine. Here's exactly how the specifications pan out:

My test cars and truck had the 2.4-liter engine, which offers adequate low-end torque for quick launches from quits. Pedal-down acceleration generates mild torque steer, however it never overwhelms the driving experience. The five-speed guidebook has a strong, hefty feel. It's much like the transmission in the Mazda3, another favored stick shift of mine, however its tosses feel a lot more precise compared to the Mazda. The Matrix's clutch pedal is light enough for continual rush-hour usage, and when the highway removes, 60-to-70 miles per hour acceleration is practical in 5th gear and also energetic in 4th. Some small autos run out of steam when filled with individuals, yet despite two adult passengers in tow, I never felt desiring for more. In any case, this engine's power really feels incomparably extra usable than the initial Matrix's 170-hp, rev-like-hell 1.8-liter's ever did.

Throughout spirited driving, velocity lag becomes a problem. Stab the gas pedal to match revs as you downshift, and also the action can be warm. A minimum of it corresponds, so chauffeurs will certainly learn to be patient-- though perseverance isn't an ending up being attribute in an automobile with efficiency leanings. Much of today's stick-shift-equipped compacts have the exact same problem, though that does not minimize its nuisance.

I didn't drive the 1.8-liter engine, however I've driven it in the brand-new Corolla as well as it's a smooth, if uninteresting, powertrain. The Corolla's four-speed automatic delays a little bit in kickdown performance, however, so if you're getting a base Matrix with the automated, ensure to see exactly how it does with freeway passing.

Four-wheel-disc antilock anti-skid brakes are standard; the Matrix S as well as XRS have somewhat larger discs than the base model. The pedal really feels a little bit squishy in the very first inch approximately of travel; after that, its action is strong, and ABDOMINAL never ever kicks in too soon.

The base Matrix and front-wheel-drive S variation have an independent front suspension and also semi-independent, torsion light beam rear. The arrangement returns fairly firm catching with much less body roll than the xB, but the ride comes to be a little bit rough over bumpy pavement. Splits and also speed bumps elicit raw sounds from the back suspension as well as periodically a rattle or 2 from the headliner.

At freeway speeds, road and wind noise are significant, yet the engine remains inconspicuous. The guiding wheel begins to feel a little bit tense around 75 miles per hour, however at slower rates it maintains a protected, on-center feeling. Turn-in accuracy goes over: Being a front-wheel-drive cars and truck, the Matrix has the tendency to understeer during difficult cornering, however I was shocked by exactly how well it held the line. That precision isn't readily noticeable at reduced rates, where the wheel transforms easily-- suggesting there's a lot of power help-- as well as sometimes feels a little bit numb.

The XRS and AWD S trims have a fully independent double-wishbone rear suspension, which likely offers an extra refined ride. The XRS consists of a strut tower support under the hood to additionally take care of body roll, and its 18-inch alloy wheels overshadow those on less-expensive trims. My tester included 16-inch steel wheels.

Because of a changed steering configuration, the XRS' transforming circle is 38.1 feet. Base as well as S versions turn in 36.0 feet, which appears more appropriate for a small auto; the AWD S is available in at 36.7 feet.

How it Looks

Toyota didn't change the wheel with this version; the new face resembles a rational development from the old model. The lights show up reduced as well as leaner, as well as the bumper's beefy flanks seem on the verge of swallowing just what lies in between. The aggression fits on this car, and it births some similarity to Toyota's upcoming Venza crossover.

Overall length has increased by less than an inch, and also ride height has to do with half an inch lower. Unfortunately, the liftgate no more integrates the previous version's glass hatch.

Sixteen-inch steel wheels with plastic covers begun the base version and Matrix S. For its cost, the S actually should certainly have alloy edges, however they're optional. The XRS has basic 18-inch alloys.

Cabin Top quality

Real to its roots, the Matrix's cabin has a practical curved, though it feels extra refined than the also-utilitarian xB's. Though the control panel plastics are difficult to the touch, their high quality is commendable, with wraparound textures that look abundant from any type of range. The assesses and stereo controls have top-notch quality, as well, and also panel fit is generally superb.

Perhaps due to the fact that there is a lot evident top quality there, the cabin's weaknesses stick out much more. The climate controls are easy however awfully cumbersome, and the ceiling is a vast canopy of computer mouse hair. Toyota had an opportunity to leapfrog the competition with features-- and outgrow the old Matrix's fundamental feeling-- yet things like extending sun visors, lit up vanity mirrors and also a back facility armrest are still lacking. Though rare in this course, those type of amenities are starting to appear occasionally; the Volkswagen Rabbit and also the upcoming Hyundai Elantra Touring have all three.

The updated JBL audio system in my examination car belted out respectable sound, however it lacks a USB port for iPod assimilation, which Toyota claims isn't even offered as a dealer accessory. Rather you'll need to use a standard supporting jack. The xB has an iPod port requirement.

The seats are well-padded, however I thought the fabric felt sandpaper-rough in particular areas. I'm a follower of the furrier stuff in the brand-new Corolla; senior editor David Thomas, on the other hand, favored the Matrix's furniture for its sturdiness. The Matrix XRS gets its very own sporting activity textile, which we haven't examined out.

Roominess & Utility

Toyota claims the seats rest somewhat below previously, but I still located the driver's seat high for a compact vehicle. Clearance excels in both rows (I'm about 6 feet tall, and my examination car did not have the optional moonroof). The inboard side of the dashboard, which extends downward to include the shifter, encroaches on the chauffeur's legroom. Legroom is better in back.

If agitated energy is your point, the Matrix comes through in spades. The back tons flooring is covered in durable plastic, as are the second-row seatbacks. When the seats are folded up, the cargo location comes to be a veritable deck. Rubber strips along the floor keep freight in place, and the majority of trims have a fold-flat front passenger seat with a hard plastic backing. Vehicle drivers with considerable amounts of plug-in electronics will certainly value the 115V house electrical outlet that's typical on the S and XRS.

Safety

Since this writing, the Insurance coverage Institute for Highway Safety and security has not collapse checked the Matrix. Typical functions include all-disc anti-skid brakes, side-impact air bags for the pole positions and also side drape air bags for both rows. That's a major enhancement over the '08 version, which offered these features as choices. All five seats have head restrictions, and energetic head restraints are standard in advance. A digital security system runs a budget-friendly $250-- contrast that to $450 on the Bunny, $440 on the Quality and $650 on the outbound Matrix. The system is basic on the Matrix XRS.

Lock child-seat supports lie in the outboard rear seats. Moms and dads will value the clearly significant top-tether anchors, accessible by turning up plastic covers in the cargo flooring behind the seat.

Features & Rates

Leaving out the destination charge, the Matrix begins at $16,190, approximately the like the outward bound design geared up with comparable functions. Major standard features consist of AIR CONDITIONING, a basic CD stereo with an accessory audio jack as well as power mirrors. Power windows and locks with remote entry run $990. For $18,260, the Matrix S consists of those functions along with the 2.4-liter engine, a back wiper and more. All-wheel drive adds $2,140, however it additionally consists of a transmission, which sets you back $1,190 otherwise.

The Matrix XRS begins at $20,660 and comes with 18-inch rims, a sport-tuned suspension and a leather-wrapped wheel with audio controls. A lot of those features are optional on lesser trims. Other alternatives consist of a navigation system, a moonroof as well as a costs stereo. Cruise control runs $250 on any type of trim.

Totally filled, anticipate the Matrix to peak around $24,000.

Matrix in the Market

I suspect the Matrix's most significant hindrance will certainly be its rate. For the expense of a base version with power devices and cruise ship control, many rivals include alloy wheels, larger engines or better stereos. The Matrix's cargo area contrasts favorably, however the vehicle makes no waves in driving dynamics or cabin high quality.

The Matrix could ultimately draw those that need optimum utility in a tiny bundle, and also its flashy personality could grab a few performance addicts. For those who desire a grocery-getter with a bit extra freight area than their last car-- including my grandparents, that have the outbound Matrix-- there are a lot of competitors that do it for a lot much less cash.