subject: Toyota Matrix Used Cars [print this page] Toyota used cars like the Matrix are just a beefed up Corolla on steroids. The Toyota Matrix is based on the Corolla hatchback but with a crossover look in mind. The Matrix was designed for younger consumers and with crossover vehicles being so popular, Toyota decided to try its hand in this part of the auto industry. Even thou the Matrix will be like every other fuel efficient Toyota vehicle out there, it still drives very much like a Corolla. The Matrix competes against the likes of the Chrysler PT Cruiser, Pontiac Vibe and Mazda 3 just to name a few. My research will be on the Toyota Matrix as a used vehicle to look at.
Used cars like the Matrix come in three different models (base, XR and XRS) and both the base and XR models come in either in all-wheel or front-wheel drive. The XRS comes only in front-wheel drive. The base and the XR all-wheel drive models, come standard in a four speed automatic transmission. The front-wheel drive base and XR models come in either a five speed automatic or manual transmission. The XRS comes standard in a six speed manual transmission only. The antiskid control system is standard for all front wheel drive models that come with an automatic transmission. Other safety features that are options are curtain side air bags and front torso side air bags.
I could only find one fuel statistic for the Matrix. Like all Toyota products fuel ratings are good for the Matrix as well. The base model had a fuel rating of 8.5-litres, per 100km, for city driving and 6.5-litres per 100km, for highway driving (this was for the automatic transmission). The manual transmission for the base model has a slightly better fuel rating.
The Toyota Matrix uses two different engines for its various models. The Base model uses the same engine the Corolla uses and its a four cylinder, 1.8-litre engine. The XRS model uses the Toyota Celica engine which has 180 horsepower.
Lets look at some of the pros and cons of the Toyota Matrix as a used vehicle:
1-When looking at a web forum for Matrix owners there were complaints of rough idling.
2-The same web forum discusses problems with the failure of the clutch in the XRS model.
3-The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave it a five star rating for driver protection in a crash test done to it.
I hope this helps if youre looking at Toyota used cars like the Matrix.
