2003 Toyota Matrix Walkaround Review at Automotive.com
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Toyota
Matrix
2003

2003 Toyota Matrix Review: Exterior

Below is a full, detailed 2003 Toyota Matrix review and road test from New Car Test Drive. A full evaluation of price, equipment, the driving experience, and specs are all here in a structured, easy-to-navigate format from journalists with limitless ...     read more
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2003 Toyota Matrix Review

Rad street performance utility.
Walkaround
After seeing the Matrix in photographs the first thing that strikes everyone is how small the car is in person. That's not surprising as the car is actually 8 inches shorter than a Toyota Corolla yet it is 3 inches taller. It has the same wheelbase but a wider track.

These dimensions give the Matrix a unique stance with very different proportions from the Corolla. In many ways its looks are close to that of the Ford Focus hatchback, which is slightly smaller. It is also similar in size to the Chrysler PT Cruiser although the Matrix has slightly less interior storage capacity due to a lower roofline.

And it's mainly the roofline that attracts one's attention. In a reverse wedge shape, the roof slopes down at the back while the belt line along the lower edge of the side windows slopes up creating a sleek wedge shape to the windows.

The tailgate opens up just as in an SUV or minivan, but the frameless window can be opened separately for quick access.

The front of the car has a purposeful looking nose with a relatively high hood line accentuated by a big grille. Engine cooling is also achieved through a large aperture under the front bumper which features two small foglights.

A wide track, along with generous tires fill the wheel wells nicely, helping give the Matrix an aggressive look. All in all it's a car that looks substantial despite its relatively small size. Next Page


2003 Toyota Matrix