The Toyota Matrix was launched in the year 2003 as a hatchback version of the Corolla, it basically lies in the small car categories. Based on the same platform, it was aimed to hit the younger buyers with active lifestyles that want more space than the sedan could provide, but due to some reason or another they wouldn't step up to a larger car or SUV. Now, Toyota still rolls Matrix sales volume with the Corolla although the small hatch has its own unique styling and character.
Aesthetically, the Matrix has little Corolla left in its wedge-shape profile and also has tall, narrow stance. In the year 2008 the car was re-skinned and redesigned, by adding a larger chunky C-pillar, and it was refreshed again for the year 2011. The 2009 re-skin removed f the frumpy wagon-esque look, but less glass and more metal hinders rear visibility.
While the Matrix and similar products like the Suzuki SX4 are sometimes confused as crossover vehicles, it can be argued that even the all-wheel-drive versions are only hatchbacks with a high roofline. Either way, with rear seats folds down to the Matrix that has enough space to swallow all but the biggest flat-screens. If you want even more length, the front passenger seat becomes flat, making space for boards that are belonging to surf, snow, or even the ironing enthusiasts.
The base price of the $22,000 Matrix S AWD lies in between the pricing of the $17,000 Suzuki SX4 AWD and the $27,000 Mini Cooper Clubman S ALL4. Although American buyers normally don't like hatchbacks, these new models all seem to do well. In near future manufacturers need to start referring to their hatches as crossovers.
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12 years, 9 month(s) ago