It's been around so long we barely give it a glance. Indeed the 2007 Toyota Matrix (officially "Corolla" Matrix) has little new to differentiate it from last year's model. The 1.8 liter 4-cylinder engine still delivers 126 hp through a 5-speed manual and styling's unchanged. But the Matrix has built a loyal owner base around its utility. Our test vehicle was a base model with optional 4-speed auto, priced at $16,680 including delivery and handling; EPA-rated at 30 city/36 highway mpg.
First glance: Toyota simplifies the Matrix lineup
If imitation is indeed the sincerest form of flattery then Toyota ought to be bursting with pride. Since it was first launched as a radical-looking crossover the Toyota Matrix has had many imitators; tall 4-door hatchbacks with just a hint of raciness to their styling. The Matrix has changed little through the years except to simplify the lineup. For 2007 Toyota no longer offers the performance-oriented XRS or all-wheel-drive versions, and they've only updating the design with small details. Rumor has it a new Matrix will arrive in late 2007 as a 2008 model, along with the Corolla on which it is based.
That it continues to be popular is testimony to the original concept, although Toyota's product developers had intended the Matrix for a younger demographic. Older folks soon discovered its step-in convenience (link goes to photo), practicality, and economy. So much for market planning.
In all those years I'd never driven a Matrix, thus the 2007 was new to me; you're getting an unbiased point-of-view. And the first thing I noticed was that Toyota had given me a base model to test, rather a surprise as an at-a-glance visual check had suggested otherwise. The only option on my test car was an automatic transmission; a 5-speed manual is standard. Power door locks with remote are included, along with air-conditioning, AM/FM/CD stereo with four speakers, tilt steering, cargo nets, and a luggage-holding belt.
Continued below...In the Driver's Seat: A layout to love
The first thing one does after sitting down in a test car is adjust the mirrors. I searched and searched for the switch. There wasn't one. At the same time, I fumbled for the power window switch. Fingers couldn't find it. Only then did I realise just how base my Matrix was, for aside from the locks there were no interior power assists of any kind. Now, that may be acceptable in a base-model car, but the Matrix is supposed to be a step above, say, a Toyota Yaris.
Once settled I found much to like and a few things that were less impressive. I was, for example, pleased with the transmission shifter, which sits just below the dashboard, leaving lots of room for storage and cupholders (one of which even comes with its own cup, coffee not included). The air controls, like those of the sound system, are functionally simple. And the designers made room for two coinholders. One for toll booths, the other for use in laundromats.
Intended to look sporty, the three instrument nacelles can be distracting. Visibility's good to the front, less so to the rear as the body narrows and headrests get in the way.
On the Road: Too lazy
When it comes to describing performance, "adequate" may be an overworked adjective but I can't think of a better word. Okay, I could walk into the next room and pick up Thesaurus, but the truth is I'm too darn lazy. Which is how the Matrix sometimes felt, at least when compared to the competition. Now that the 170 horsepower XRS version is gone, the 126 hp 1.8 liter engine from the Corolla is the only choice. Another ten horsepower would make a big difference, especially with an automatic transmission that had only four gears in an era when five's becoming the norm. And that's sad because otherwise the 2007 Toyota Matrix is almost fun to drive.
The "almost fun" part comes from the Matrix' responsive steering and handling: stable and predictable in turns, relatively flat cornering. But the Toyota Matrix is no sports sedan in spite of the promise of its styling. Rather than a fully-independent rear suspension system, which a system that produces the best possible handling and which is used by many of the Matrix's competitors, it uses a less expensive torsion beam at rear. And instead of providing disc brakes all-round, it has discs up front, drums in the back, which provides less stopping power in the rain and under panic braking. This may have been acceptable when the Matrix was launched but today's buyers are looking for more. On the other hand, the Matrix sips fuel gently, rides comfortably, and isolates noise except when the engine's forced to labour.
Journey's End: Designed for the real needs of real drivers
The Matrix is about versatility. It's an easy step to get in and out, with plenty of head-arm-legroom for five passengers. Cargo space can handle most weekend antique-finds, thanks to a split-folding seatback that creates an absolutely flat floor space from hatch to front seat. And if that's not enough, the front passenger seat also folds flat, albeit at a greater height. Makes a handy work space, though.
Lifting the rear floor brings a surprise: even more storage space. Ideal for we Canadians slipping an extra bottle of Scotch through customs on our cross-border runs. Whoops, sorry sir... you also drive a Matrix? Clearly this car was designed around the real needs of most drivers. Families with growing children, working women, guys not hung up on performance, even seniors, should consider the Matrix.
I'd be more enthusiastic if it had standard side airbags and side curtain airbags standard instead of "available." And standard ABS brakes instead of "available. If these things matter, you'll just have to shell out the extra cash, assuming you can find a dealer who ordered a Matrix so equipped. Actually a Corolla wagon, the Matrix builds on the latter's reputation for quality and value. And that's a bonus.
