2008 Toyota Matrix Overview
Since its introduction in 2003, the Toyota Matrix has energized what has become a Toyota vehicle lineup full of largely safely-designed, non-threatening cars. Capturing the same sporty allure as the Toyota Celica, the Matrix invokes excitement while offering passenger and cargo space. A combination of zesty style and usable practicality coupled with an MSRP of under $20,000, the Toyota Matrix has earned a place in the driveways of young singles as well as families. For the first year of sales, the Matrix became an instant hit selling over 67,000 cars. The Matrix's running gear is shared with the Toyota Corolla and the Matrix's sister car, the Pontiac Vibe. Even so, the Matrix excels in defining itself, even with the common components.
For 2008, no significant changes were made to the Toyota Matrix's two trim packages for either a base model or the well-equipped XR model. While the groundwork and the majority of Toyota promotional material are looking forward to the second generation 2009 Toyota Matrix, the 2008 Toyota Matrix offers itself as a solid, fun loving vehicle.
2008 Toyota Matrix Exterior
The word 'wagon' is a moniker few automakers currently use and the Toyota Matrix is no exception. Though the squarer, boxier profile of the rear roof line inspires utility and family transport, the Matrix's use of curving accentuates its sports car physique. Altogether, the Matrix body slides through the air with a 0.32 drag coefficient.
Standard 16 inch steels wheels can be replaced with stylish alloy wheels or grown to an optional set of 17 inch alloys on the XR trim. The Matrix XR also adds two Extra Value packages which can add exterior enhancements such as front/rear spoilers, fog lights, and a sliding power moon roof. As some customers may find the Matrix appearance mundane after five years, TRD (Toyota Racing Development) as well as other aftermarket sources offer a sizable inventory of dress up items to personalize the Toyota Matrix.
2008 Toyota Matrix Interior
Ultimately, the Toyota Matrix is a small lifestyle vehicle, a design ethos that is currently mimicked by multiple other auto companies. To create this particular environment, everyday features and storage capacities figure heavily into the interior space. A base Matrix performs well to this criteria featuring comforts like air conditioning and two 12-volt power outlets. Added to the interior of the XR model are power windows and locks as well as a single 115-volt plug that allows household electronic products to be powered without car adapters. An AM/FM CD player is standard but the XR trim Matrix can be fitted with a JBL stereo receiver and 6-disc in-dash CD changer as a $600.00 extra.
The Matrix features a 60/40 split rear seat and a fold down front passenger seat that allows for large or long loads to be carried securely inside the Matrix. When the rear seats folded completely down, a cargo space measuring 53.2 cubic feet is comparable to newer category entrants like the Chevrolet HHR and many small sport utility vehicles and crossover utility vehicles.
2008 Toyota Matrix Performance
All 2008 Toyota Matrix's are capably powered by an all-aluminum 1.8 liter, double overhead cam four-cylinder engine. Featuring four valves per cylinder, Toyota's VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence) insures the proper air/fuel mixture when generating a modest 126 horsepower of total engine power. Past Toyota Matrix models benefited with the option of more forceful performance from a higher compression engine but that disappeared after the 2006 discontinuation of the XRS trim level. Hope in recapture this engine power will depend on the 2009 Matrix specifications.
Driving preferences will dictate whether to choose an easier driving 4-speed automatic or the racier demeanor of the 5-speed manual gearbox. As only one engine remains available, Matrix's fuel economy is solely dependent on the transmission type attached to the 4-cylinder engine. While the automatic transmission inspires a comfortable 28 miles per gallon, the lesser expensive manual shifter rewards the driver with 2 mile per gallon overall increase in fuel mileage accompanying more vitalized performance.
Electronic stability control is left on the extra cost equipment list along with anti-lock brakes. A visit to TRD's product catalog can provide a fast-stopping remedy using factory-approved braking kits featuring two-piece slotted brake rotors and painted red calipers.