2009 Toyota Matrix revealed

[TinmanMS6]

http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/autoshows/sema/2007/2009toyotamatrix.09toyotamatrix340.img.jpg

What is it?
2009 Toyota Matrix

What's special about it?
David Terai, chief engineer for the 2009 Toyota Matrix, tells us, "During extensive meetings all over the country with customers, owners and dealers, we found that the current Matrix was seen far too often as a small, conventional, practical wagon."

We're not sure why this is a bad thing, but Toyota is determined to market the redesigned second-generation Matrix to younger buyers. "We see it as the perfect entry point for current Scion owners," says Bob Carter, Toyota Group vice president and general manager.

Since the target group (20-to-35-year-old men, who else?) is seen as more likely to shop for a vehicle based on style and performance than pure function, Toyota says it put more emphasis on these attributes during the redesign.

In reality, the 2009 Matrix hasn't changed much in appearance and even its exterior dimensions are virtually identical to the previous vehicle. But it is a fair bit quicker to drive, thanks to a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 158 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque.

Borrowed from the Camry and Scion tC, this engine is available for both the midrange Matrix S (which replaces the old XR) and the high-line Matrix XRS. You can get it with either a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels. Toyota says revised throttle mapping for the Matrix XRS version of this engine imparts an even sportier driving experience. Equipped with the manual gearbox, the XRS will accelerate to 60 mph in a claimed 8.3 seconds.

More justification for choosing the sportiest Matrix comes by way of its independent double-wishbone rear suspension, which replaces the torsion-beam setup used on most trims. In addition, the XRS has firmer spring and damper settings, plus a strut-tower brace up front.

The other way to get a Toyota Matrix with independent rear suspension is to check off the option for all-wheel drive, which is available only on the S model and only with an automatic transmission.

For buyers who put greater priority on affordability and fuel economy, Toyota will continue to offer a base Matrix with a 132-hp, 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine. Mileage ratings improve significantly when you choose this engine. Even under the EPA's revised testing protocol for 2008, highway mpg is 30-plus. The downside is that buyers will be stuck with a four-speed automatic if they decline the five-speed manual.

Electric power steering is standard on every Matrix. Also included across the board are four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, though the discs on models with the 2.4-liter engine are understandably larger. Stability control is standard on the XRS and optional on other trims.

Space-efficient interior design remains the best attribute of Toyota's compact wagon. Since the original Matrix's roomy backseat was already a hit with buyers, Toyota designers didn't change much, although front-drive models now incorporate a near-flat rear floor. Up front, the driving position is much less awkward than before, thanks to a standard telescoping steering wheel and a longer seat-bottom cushion.

The one change that could disappoint some buyers is the deletion of the adjustable cargo-track system, which we're told most owners weren't using. In its place, you'll find fixed tie-down points and rubber inserts designed to keep cargo from sliding around. As before, both the rear seats and the front passenger seat fold completely flat.

When it arrives at dealerships in February 2008, the second-gen Matrix will account for 20 percent of Corolla sales, says Toyota — more than 70,000 units annually. The company expects more than 50 percent of buyers to opt for the midrange, while another 40 percent will stick with the base model. That leaves just 5 percent for the XRS. Toyota anticipates a 14 percent take rate for all-wheel drive.

http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/autoshows/sema/2007/2009toyotamatrix.09toyotamatrixsf34500.img.jpg

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http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/autoshows/sema/2007/2009toyotamatrix.09toyotamatrixcrg2500.img.jpg

[Mr. 4500 RPM]

I feel it is a nice upgrade but it needs more balls at 158hp as I just saw on the offical website it lacks cojones!

[seanmcsean]

wow.. they really uglified that thing.

[GreyMan]

looks like eurotrash to me...

[TinmanMS6]

I'm more interested in the Vibe.

http://jalopnik.com/assets/resources/2007/10/pontiac_vibe_gt_09.jpg

[seanmcsean]

the vibe looks 400 percent better

[nate0123]

F_u_g_l_y

[StealthWyvern]

Why does this remind me of a cheap echo?

[jeg0024]

Why does this remind me of a cheap echo?

Because your cheap? lmao j/k

[altspace]

http://images.worldcarfans.com/articles/2007/10/31/9071031.051/9071031.051.Mini17L.jpg

http://images.worldcarfans.com/articles/2007/10/31/9071031.051/9071031.051.Mini18L.jpg

http://images.worldcarfans.com/articles/2007/10/31/9071031.051/9071031.051.Mini19L.jpg

http://images.worldcarfans.com/articles/2007/10/31/9071031.051/9071031.051.Mini20L.jpg

http://images.worldcarfans.com/articles/2007/10/31/9071031.051/9071031.051.Mini21L.jpg

[altspace]

http://jalopnik.com/assets/images/gallery/12/2007/10/thumb800x800_1809762738_67c8634ea1_o.jpg

[S.A.MSP]

http://jalopnik.com/assets/images/gallery/12/2007/10/thumb800x800_1809762738_67c8634ea1_o.jpg

sooooooooooooooooooooooo much better, look at the full cage too, badd ass

[chaos2015]

looks like an ion wagon

[Rally Ninja]

Looks better than a 3wagon to me. Supercharged AWD XRS would be nice.

:::now runs and ducks for cover from the flaming of 3wagon fanboys:::

hehehehe

[mikeyb]

When I first saw this I thought Subaru Impreza.

[chuyler1]

I always thought the Vibe was the better looking of the twins. I'm not a Pontiac person but they did a nice job integrating the split grill...however the seat configuration and interior never sold me. It felt like driving a minivan compared to the Protege5.

[blkspdfreak]

it looks very mis-shaped. the interior is like a childs puzzle.

[Phoenix5]

I don't know.Still doesn't compare to the P5.

[TheMAN]

they took an ugly car and made it uglier, woohoo

[SuperProtege5]

Well I guess this means that Mazda is going to have to reintroduce the P5. First the Vibe, then the Matrix, it only seems natural for a P5 to follow and clean up shop. The design of the new matrix sucks. It looks too much like an over-stretched Yaris bred with a Prius. I'll still take my P5 thank you.

[kura808]

reminds me of a kia..haha xP

[NCZ13]

sure it looks like ass

but PHEAR teh vvtl-i

[TinmanMS6]

Well I guess this means that Mazda is going to have to reintroduce the P5. First the Vibe, then the Matrix, it only seems natural for a P5 to follow and clean up shop. The design of the new matrix sucks. It looks too much like an over-stretched Yaris bred with a Prius. I'll still take my P5 thank you.

For the record, the Vibe doesn't get officially released until next week at the LA auto show.

[coolmazda5]

The 06-07 Subaru Impreza Wagon called, it wants is tails back.

Dunno, it looks so inflated that any wheel size does not look proportionate to the car IMO.

Oh well, at least this model seems to be looking very different from the 1st gen one. Some articles mentioned that the Matrix and the Vibe were a smaller version of the Mazda5 (pissed) so now they don't seem to look that alike :eek:.

Interior, apart from the gauges colors, (yupnope)

[FreewheelBurner]

Well I guess this means that Mazda is going to have to reintroduce the P5.

Or Mazda could just keep the 3?

[protegeV]

whew, thats bad.. Little too "suzukiish" for me.

[coolmazda5]

Or Mazda could just keep the 3?

(scratch) from the wagon perspective may not be the same thing. My thoughts for the Mazda P5 category were closer to a Golf (Jetta) Wagon (vs. the regular Golf, a hatchback). Both can be 4 doors, but the hatchback diff. from the wagon

[aMaff]

and just when you thought it couldn't get uglier.

Is it me or is this just a big yaris?

[TinmanMS6]

and just when you thought it couldn't get uglier.

Is it me or is this just a big yaris?

You should see the new 'Rolla. It looks like a Yaris and a Camry Got. It. On.
(ughdance)
http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/10/09_corolla_s_05_450.jpg
http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/31/sema-2007-2009-toyota-corolla-debuts/

[nate0123]

You should see the new 'Rolla. It looks like a Yaris and a Camry Got. It. On.
(ughdance)
http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/10/09_corolla_s_05_450.jpg
http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/31/sema-2007-2009-toyota-corolla-debuts/yes it does, but the Matrix makes that Corolla look like a beauty queen

the Corolla isn't horribly misshapen nor does it invoke the upchuck reflex like the Matrix does (blarf)

[TinmanMS6]

yes it does, but the Matrix makes that Corolla look like a beauty queen

the Corolla isn't horribly misshapen nor does it invoke the upchuck reflex like the Matrix does (blarf)

I don't think one really looks that much better than the other. On the other hand, Pontiac makes a better looking version of the Matrix, but you're stuck with the Corolla if you want a sedan.

[aMaff]

It looks like a Yaris and a Camry Got. It. On.

Bow chika bow wow!

(blarf)

[Donas64]

I didn't think the Matrix could get any uglier.....evidently I was wrong.

I mean I know automotive design takes skill and is not easy but sometimes I'm POSITIVE I could style a nicer lookin vehicle than these people.

[Donas64]

Or Mazda could just keep the 3?

Lets be honest now, deep down we all know the P5 looks better than the 3 hatch. As an overall package the 3 is a better car, but looks wise, it's not even close

*chucks grenade, heads for door* (peep) :)

At least we can both agree that the 3 and the P5 both look better than this automotive abomination.

[Phoenix5]

Hahaha!Got that right!

I think the best hatch that ever came out of Toyota was the 98 Corolla hatch...

http://www.club-tm.ru/Revell/Catalog/r7362.jpg.

[CHICO2003]

The P5 was a nice looking car. clean, attractive lines... not a fan of the rear lights but everything else looked good. but when you compare it to the 3 (side by side) I can immediately see that the design looks somewhat dated. The 3 hatch (which IS the P5 replacement people) is better in virtually every way. sure, the lines aren't as clean... it has a few awkward angles but that's the price you pay for putting out an aggressive design. Seriously, other than maybe... i don't know, the new Sti... what else on the road looks like a 3 hatch? or... more specifically, an MS3? By contrast, the P5's non offensive looks could have been mistaken (by the untrained eye) for other cars. because I don't want to (further) offend, I won't list the ones that come to mind.

[J-protege]

The 3 hatch looks chubby and bloated, while the P5 looks like a little rally wagon, what with those fogs, haha.

As for this thing, it looks like a camry ate an echo...

[TinmanMS6]

Funny, I think we're going to find these lines clearly divided between those who drive P5s and those who drive 3s. I drive neither, and prefer the 3.

[aMaff]

Funny, I think we're going to find these lines clearly divided between those who drive P5s and those who drive 3s. I drive neither, and prefer the 3.

YOU SACK OF SHIT!


Ok not really, I actually think they're both really good looking (3 hatch vs P5 of course). I'd take a laser blue MS3 any day! :p

[Donas64]

Funny, I think we're going to find these lines clearly divided between those who drive P5s and those who drive 3s. I drive neither, and prefer the 3.

that does seem to be the usual outcome. But we know those 3 guys are just deluded and drunk with power. 265 horses is like beer goggles for the MS3 :)

Heck, I'd toss my P5 into the compactor for a white one.

[aMaff]

your car's not going to start tomorrow because it heard you type that.

[Donas64]

your car's not going to start tomorrow because it heard you type that.

I wouldn't doubt it.

[mikeyb]

http://images.motortrend.com/auto_shows/coverage/sema/112_2007sema_05z+2009_toyota_corolla_matrix+front_ profile.jpg

http://images.motortrend.com/auto_shows/coverage/sema/112_2007sema_06z+2009_toyota_corolla_matrix+front. jpg

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http://images.motortrend.com/auto_shows/coverage/sema/112_2007_sema_06z+tuner_corollas+millenworks_matri x_rally_sport_front_profile.jpg

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[aMaff]

rally matrix huh? That should be interesting...

[S.A.MSP]

i like the rally one

[TinmanMS6]

i like the rally one

You would. Ricer.

[aMaff]

You would. Ricer.

DAMN IT you beat me to it.

[zoomzone]

I liked the matrix before, now they screwed it up. Why are those fenders bulging out so much? Ugly.

[S.A.MSP]

You would. Ricer.

fuck you, you cracker lol


and you too McMuff'n

[coolmazda5]

The 2009 Toyota Matrix Mini Site:

http://www.toyota.com/vehicles/future/matrix/

[TinmanMS6]

Pontiac Vibe introduction is in 5 minutes. Waiting patiently for anything we don't already know about it from the Matrix reveal.

[protegeV]

interested to see the vibe...cant be worse than the Matrix, lol.

[TinmanMS6]

interested to see the vibe...cant be worse than the Matrix, lol.

I posted a pic somewhere in this thread, but I haven't seen the back yet. There are videos up on YouTube right now, apparently, but I can't see them at work.

[camrycev6]

It just goes to show you can make just about anything look good if you put enough money into it. Look at so many hollywood actresses? They start off ok, get famous -- and then bam!! They suddenly look hot... Money may not be able to buy love, but it can sure buy looks...

[avarela86]

Look like a MUCH better version of the new wagon Subby. I like it a lot actually. I would own one if I had a need for a wagon. Toyota, another + in my book.

[TinmanMS6]

http://a332.g.akamai.net/f/332/936/12h/www.edmunds.com//media/roadtests/firstdrive/2009/toyota.matrix.xrs/09.toyota.matrix.xrs.act.500.jpg

The 2009 Toyota Matrix is supposed to be very influential, just as the original Matrix proved when it was introduced in 2003. This tall wagon-style compact based on the Toyota Corolla had a sport-utility flavor but drove like a car, making it one of the first crossovers with an affordable price tag. Its big backseat and dog-friendly cargo bay made utility kind of cool. Without the Matrix, the Mazda3 five-door, Scion xB and even the Audi A3 might not have achieved the coolness they have today.

So you can imagine our surprise when David Terai, chief engineer for the 2009 Toyota Matrix, tells us, "During extensive meetings all over the country with customers, owners and dealers, we found that the current Matrix was seen far too often as a small, conventional, practical wagon."

We're not sure why this is a bad thing. Maybe it has something to do with the plan to sell the redesigned second-generation Matrix to males in the 20-to-35-year-old range when the 2009 Toyota Matrix goes on sale in February 2008. Probably you don't want to be talking about kids or strollers in front of these guys.

Same Size, Two Engines, Three Trims
The 2009 Toyota Matrix has much the same dimensions as the one before, just as the made-over Corolla doesn't vary a bit from the one before. The rear track is wider by an inch, but that's it.

Inside, there's just as much space as before, although increased front seat-track travel and a standard telescoping steering wheel provide a vastly better driving position. Toyota reports a major increase in overall passenger volume from 96 cubic feet to 114 cubic feet and also claims a total cargo capacity increase from 53 cubes to 61.5 cubic feet, but we can't find it when we're sitting in the cabin.

Expected to account for 40 percent of sales, the base-model Matrix has a 1.8-liter inline four-cylinder engine good for 132 horsepower and 128 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual gearbox driving the front wheels is standard, but the optional automatic transmission has just four forward gears.

More than 50 percent of buyers will choose the S, ostensibly to take advantage of its Camry-sourced 2.4-liter engine, which makes 158 hp at 6,000 rpm and 162 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. A five-speed manual transmission is again standard for the S model, but the automatic is now a five-speed as well. You can get all-wheel drive if you want, but you'll have to make do with a four-speed automatic.

That leaves just 5 percent of buyers for the 2009 Toyota Matrix XRS, the image car in the model lineup complete with an upgraded suspension and 18-inch wheels. This is the car Toyota will use to court that coveted male audience, not to mention current Mazda3 and Scion owners.

Stronger but Calmer XRS
If you've driven a 2003-'06 Matrix XRS (or its Pontiac Vibe GT counterpart), you'll remember it well. Motivating it was the Yamaha-built 1.8-liter engine from the now-departed Celica GT-S. You had to spin this hard-working little engine past 4,000 rpm to get any torque, and it was trying to do business in a chassis that was at best a reluctant co-conspirator. Schizophrenic was the only way to describe the result.

Toyota has largely resolved this contradiction with the 2009 Toyota Matrix XRS. The new 2.4-liter engine is more in keeping with the character of a small but chunky wagon, and it delivers solid, useful throttle response off idle. The power curve builds steadily through the midrange, and the engine revs smoothly and quietly.

Since AWD is not available for the XRS, our test car's manual transmission drives the front wheels. The clutch takeup could be a bit smoother off the line, but otherwise the gearchange is snappy, with a positive feel through the gates.

Toyota expects the XRS to get to 60 mph in the low 8-second range. No one's going to get excited over a number like this, but it's a bit quicker than a four-door Volkswagen Rabbit, which gets to 60 mph in 8.5 seconds and runs the quarter-mile in 16.3 seconds at 85.3 mph. The VW only makes 150 hp, but its five-cylinder engine offers a bit more torque than the Matrix XRS's four.

Fuel economy could be a sticking point for some, however, as the Matrix isn't able to deliver typical Toyota gas mileage when equipped with the 2.4-liter engine. With a manual gearbox, the Matrix XRS has a 21 mpg city/28 mpg highway rating, while automatics do one better on highway mileage.

More Chassis
While the drivetrain is kinder and gentler, the XRS suspension has more of an edge to it than before. The sportiest Toyota Matrix finally gets an independent rear suspension — a double-wishbone design — in place of the torsion beam used on most trims. (The AWD S model also has an independent rear suspension to enable the rear differential to be adapted to the package.)

In addition, the XRS has standard stability control, a strut tower brace up front, firmer springs and dampers at each corner, and 18-inch wheels with 215/45R18 tires. But these big wheels mean the XRS can't turn as tight a circle as other Matrix models with 16s — 38 feet versus 36.

Electric power steering is standard for every '09 Matrix. Although the steering ratio is pretty much the same on all trim levels, Toyota says it tuned the XRS for more positive on-center feel and a more noticeable build-up in effort off-center.

But Maybe Not More Speed
This all sounds encouraging, and indeed our Matrix XRS tester proved quite capable on back roads. Body roll is minimal, and the steering is nicely weighted just as Toyota said it would be. Even the feel of the brake pedal action is pleasantly linear.

For all its capability, the 2009 Toyota Matrix XRS fails to engage you in the process. This wagon can make time through the turns, but it doesn't give you much feedback through either the steering or the seat of your pants, so you're not inspired to pursue anything more stimulating than cruising speed.

As a commuter car, the Matrix XRS makes a lot of sense, given its compliant ride quality. But a car with a strut tower brace, big tires and a body kit should make you think of something more than a practical commute to work.

A Space for Living
Attractive, space-efficient interior design remains the best attribute of Toyota's compact wagon, even in XRS trim.

A three-spoke steering wheel and gauges in individual binnacles provide a suitably sporty ambience, and it's backed up by ample storage space, simple controls and quality materials. In addition, Toyota has reworked the exhaust packaging so front-wheel-drive models now offer a nearly flat floor, making it easier to seat three passengers across in back.

The one change that disappoints us is the deletion of the clever in-floor, adjustable cargo-track system, which we're told most owners weren't using. In its place you'll find fixed tie-down points and rubber inserts designed to keep cargo from sliding around.

As before, both the rear seats and the front passenger seat fold completely flat. The protective plastic coating on the seatbacks is even sturdier in the '09 model, so you can load up wet dogs and mountain bikes without a second thought.

Not the Car It Wants To Be
Despite its impressive levels of refinement, the 2009 Toyota Matrix XRS is not an athlete. Sure, the Matrix XRS is quicker and more agile than in years past, but it doesn't come close to matching the entertainment value of a Mazda3.

For us this is kind of disappointing, but we doubt it will bother the 70,000 people who will decide to purchase a Matrix in 2008. In base, S or XRS trim, this remains a perfectly practical small wagon that you'll purchase for rational reasons rather than emotional ones.

And there's no shame in that, because nobody does rational as well as Toyota.

http://a332.g.akamai.net/f/332/936/12h/www.edmunds.com//media/roadtests/firstdrive/2009/toyota.matrix.xrs/09.toyota.matrix.xrs.r34.500.jpg

[GreyMan]

ick ick ick...gotta stab my eyeballs out now....scuse me for a sec..(smash)

[Olestra]

I can't stand where they put the shifter in the Matrix...