Based on the Corolla model, the
2010 Toyota Matrix is a five-door economy hatchback that offers value and versatility in three trim levels: Base Wagon, S Wagon, and XRS Wagon. The Base trim is equipped with a 1.8-liter four cylinder engine with either a four-speed automatic or a five-speed manual transmission. In the S trim, the hatchback is offered with all-wheel drive and a four-speed transmission, while the XRS trim provides a choice of a five-speed manual or automatic transmission.
Although it has a roomy backseat and flat load floor for cargo carrying, the Matrix suffers from average design and performance. However, its Toyota safety systems are good and the Matrix receives top ratings in safety. The Matrix's gas mileage, which is rated at 25 mpg city / 31 mpg highway, is acceptable.
New for 2010
Since the Matrix was redesigned for 2009, there were no significant changes for the 2010 Toyota Matrix, except all trim levels of received stability control and traction control as standard equipment.
Essentials
Engines: 1.8L I-4, 2.4L I-4
Transmissions: 5-speed manual, 5-speed automatic, 4-speed automatic
Body Style: Hatchback
Trims: Base Wagon, S Wagon, XRS Wagon
On the Outside
Even though the new styling of the Toyota Matrix is more aggressive than previously, it's still a rather bland design. Sixteen-inch wheels come standard on the Base and S trims, while 18-inch wheels are standard on the XRS trim.
From the Inside
Standard on the Toyota Matrix are air conditioning and a 12-volt power port, while the Matrix S trim provides power door locks and windows, and the XRS trim adds sport fabric, upgraded audio, an XM-ready antenna, and an auxiliary jack.
Driving Performance
The Toyota Matrix XRS with the five-speed manual transmission and 2.4-liter four cylinder engine can trot from 0 to 60 in an impressive 7.3 seconds and finish the quarter mile in 15.7 seconds at 88.4 mph. Unfortunately, the engine is somewhat unrefined, and the overall driving experience is boring but pleasant. However, on the positive side, the Matrix stopped from 60 mph in 128 feet.
Safety Equipment
Dual front airbags, dual front side airbags, and side curtain airbags are standard on the Toyota Matrix. So are stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist, and tire-pressure monitoring.
Gas Mileage
Standard: 25-26 mpg city/31-32 mpg highway
S: 20 mpg city/26 mpg highway
XRS: 21 mpg city/28-29 mpg highway
Plusses
- User-friendly navigation system
- Agreeable acceleration
- Commendable interior
Minuses
- Poor handling
- Unrefined drive train
- Noise
Rating
Nice try at a Corolla hatchback
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