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New coupe-like styling better fits the youthful, sporty appeal of the 2009 Matrix. Standard is a new 1.8-liter, 132-horsepower four-cylinder engine, which is up by six horsepower over the previous powerplant. Upper trim levels have a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 158 horsepower. The XRS and the S with all-wheel drive have independent rear suspension.
Once considered revolutionary, the Toyota Matrix is now joined by a fleet of competitors attempting to copy the little wagon's combination of versatility and sporty good looks. Copy-cats may better be able to compete now that Toyota has discontinued the Matrix's high-output 16-valve engine and optional all-wheel drive. Then again, few rivals can match the Matrix's outstanding quality and customer satisfaction ratings, not to mention its terrific resale value. Holding strong appeal with teenagers bent on customizing every inch of their cars, the Matrix's radical exterior is complimented by its highly versatile interior, which includes eye-catching glowing red gauges, a hard plastic cargo floor and a 115-volt outlet.
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why ads?By hfk (CT) on Monday, April 02, 2012
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 78,000
overall rating 9 of 10rating detailsPros: "good value, roomy, great stereo"
Cons: "weird cup holders, only one charge outlet"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"I do a lot of 10hr drives in this car. It is absolutely reliable, big enough to shove in a dining room table and comfortable enough for a 6ft tall person. The miles are racking up quickly, and I seem to be in for regular service every 6 weeks, but I have confidence taking it through the mountains in the middle of the night in the winter. Great little car. Only regret is not getting the 2.4L engine."
9 people out of 9 found this review helpful
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By Keg (NY) on Friday, December 23, 2011
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 73,000
overall rating 10 of 10rating detailsPros: "Love this car"
Cons: "Small blind spot"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"The only downside is a slight blind spot in the drivers rear view mirror. I have used Mobil One and changed the oil every 5K this improves gas milage, and I have not had one problem with this car. Changed the tires at 50K; my bad should have rotated the tires! Sames set of brakes at73K!"
6 people out of 6 found this review helpful
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By Suzy (IN) on Thursday, December 08, 2011
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 46,000
overall rating 8 of 10rating detailsPros: "Peppy and handles well, AC plug is great"
Cons: "Cup holders are awful."
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"This is my second Matrix. I drive a long commute and this is always a pleasure on the highway. Lots of power when I need it. I do miss the window hatch in the back that my 2005 had. Also, Toyota has not yet mastered the cup holder. Only the narrowest cup really sits securely in the console."
6 people out of 6 found this review helpful
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