2005 Toyota Matrix
The Toyota Matrix combines the style and fun of a sport coupe with the utility of a small sport utility at the price of a compact. Matrix was designed for people who want a vehicle with a sporty image and high functionality. We found the Matrix offers peppy acceleration, particularly around town. It corners nicely yet offers a smooth, comfortable ride. Matrix is practical, with a big cargo area that can be expanded by folding down the rear seats. And it's stylish.
While the high-performance XRS model has drawn some attention with its high-revving 180-horsepower engine, we preferred the 130-horsepower models for their more relaxed, more pleasant demeanor. Most popular is the mid-grade Matrix XR.
Minor styling revisions freshen the appearance of the Matrix for 2005. More important, side curtain airbags have been added as optional equipment and come packaged with seat-mounted side-impact airbags ($645). Also optional on 2005 models is Vehicle Stability Control, or VSC, which virtually eliminates skidding. This is in addition to optional anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution, designed to help the driver maintain steering control in an emergency braking situation.
Matrix is based on the Toyota Corolla and is built in California at a plant jointly owned with General Motors. Matrix was introduced as a 2003 model. It has proven to be a popular vehicle: Toyota sold more than 67,000 of them during calendar year 2003. Pontiac sold nearly 57,000 Vibe models during that same period.
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We found the Matrix offers peppy acceleration, particularly around town. It corners nicely yet offers a smooth, comfortable ride. Matrix is practical, with a big cargo area that can be expanded by folding down the rear seats. And it's stylish.
While the high-performance XRS model has drawn some attention with its high-revving 180-horsepower engine, we preferred the 130-horsepower models for their more relaxed, more pleasant demeanor. Most popular is the mid-grade Matrix XR.
Minor styling revisions freshen the appearance of the Matrix for 2005. More important, side curtain airbags have been added as optional equipment and come packaged with seat-mounted side-impact airbags ($645). Also optional on 2005 models is Vehicle Stability Control, or VSC, which virtually eliminates skidding. This is in addition to optional anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution, designed to help the driver maintain steering control in an emergency braking situation.
Matrix is based on the Toyota Corolla and is built in California at a plant jointly owned with General Motors. Matrix was introduced as a 2003 model. It has proven to be a popular vehicle: Toyota sold more than 67,000 of them during calendar year 2003. Pontiac sold nearly 57,000 Vibe models during that same period.
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| Engine | 1.8L I-4 |
| MPG | Up to 30 city / 36 highway |
| Seating | 5 Passengers |
| Transmission | 4-spd auto w/OD, 5-spd man w/OD, 6-spd man w/OD |
| Power | 123 - 170 hp |
| Drivetrain | all wheel, front-wheel |
| Curb Weight | 2,679 - 2,965 lbs |
