2009 Toyota Matrix in North Plainfield, NJ - $6,999

The second-generation Toyota Matrix is a sporty five-door that helped redefine the concept of a crossover vehicle with a coupe-inspired exterior while providing enhanced interior utility and improved dynamic performance. For 2011, the Matrix features new standard wheels, interior design features, the Toyota Care complimentary maintenance plan, and standard Smart Stop Technology.

Available in two grades: base Matrix and the sporty S, the Matrix's newly designed standard 16-inch steel wheels come with sporty six-spoke full wheel covers and P205/55R16 tires. Distinctive all-new 17-inch, five-spoke alloy wheels are available on Matrix S with 215/45R17 tires. The Matrix S also features all-new front and rear bumpers, integrating front and rear underbody spoilers and a large mesh front fog lamp bezel.

Powertrain choices include 1.8- and 2.4L four-cylinder engines, a five-speed manual transmission, and either four- or five-speed automatic transmissions. All-wheel drive (AWD) with active torque control is available in the Matrix S, teamed to the 2.4L engine.

The available AWD system with active torque control on the Matrix S is front-wheel-drive-based and distributes torque to the rear wheels through an electromagnetic coupler when needed, such as when the front wheels slip, during heavy acceleration, or on a grade. This active torque control system detects available traction based on signals sent from the ABS sensors on each wheel to the ECU. Traction Control (TRAC) provides an extra measure of wheel slip control, on both front-wheel-drive and AWD models.

The Matrix is built around a stiff, rigid body structure that relies on high tensile-strength steels, gussets and cross members for its strength, rigidity and light weight. The front suspension is composed of a compact, rigid L-arm-type independent MacPherson strut with a stabilizer bar. The Matrix S AWD features a double-wishbone rear suspension with a coil-over-shock arrangement, which allows efficient packaging along with excellent handling and ride comfort.

Inside the passenger cabin, the Matrix interior is designed for form, fun and functionality with a sporty, youthful look and flexible utility at the same time. Cockpit styling is anchored by a driver-oriented instrument panel and console controls. The Optitron instrument-panel gauges feature bright white lighting and new silver ornamentation for 2011. A large round speedometer is mounted in the center, with a tachometer to the left and red needles that now feature a new white line, adding both style and are easy to view. A combination gauge to the right of the speedometer houses a fuel level indicator, an engine temperature indicator, and an LCD display that combines an outside temp indicator and odometer/trip meter. The center console features new metal-plated rings around the air conditioning vents, and the audio unit has a new flush surface in 2011.



In addition, Matrix will have new seat fabrics that exude a sporty look. A choice between two interior color schemes includes dark charcoal or a combination of dark charcoal and ash gray, and a three-spoke steering wheel adds a sporty touch. Matrix S comes with a newly designed leather-trimmed steering wheel that includes spoke-mounted audio controls and hands-free Bluetooth capability.

The front center console features a movable and removable cup support element. The cup holder area can be used as a tray when the divider is removed, and all open trays have rubber mats. Multiple storage spaces are located throughout the interior, including front and rear door pockets that each holds a 20-ounce plastic bottle. Four side panel shopping bag hooks and four D-rings in the floor provide luggage tie-down convenience. A folding tonneau cover also comes standard. The standard tilt-and-telescopic sport steering wheel enhances driving-position comfort for a wide range of driver physiques. Front-to-back couple distance yields more rear seat room, and the 60/40 split folding rear seat includes a center-position headrest.

Dimensions & specifications

Base

Wheelbase: 102.4; overall length: 171.9; width: 69.5; height: 61.0

S/AWD

Wheelbase: 102.4; overall length: 171.9; width: 69.5: height: 61.0 (61.4 AWD)

All vehicle measurements are in inches

Engine: 1.8L four-cylinder – 132 hp at 6,000 rpm and 128 lbs-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm; 2.4L four-cylinder – 158 hp at 6,000 rpm and 162 lbs-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm

Transmission: five-speed manual, four-speed automatic, five-speed automatic

EPA Fuel Economy: 1.8L four-cylinder – 26 city/32 hwy. (manual), 25 city/32 hwy. (automatic); 2.4L four-cylinder – 21 city/28 hwy. (manual), 21 city/29 hwy(automatic), 20 city/26 hwy. (AWD).

Cargo capacity: 49.4 cubic feet

Towing capacity: 1,500 lbs.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, dual head curtain side-impact airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, traction control, vehicle stability control, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, smart stop technology, side-impact door beams, tire pressure monitoring system, daytime running lights, and engine immobilizer.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile Comprehensive

Powertrain: 5-year/60,000 mile

Corrosion: 5-year/unlimited

Pricing

The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2011 Toyota Matrix starts from $ 18,545 for the Base model upto $21,415 for the S AWD. Destination charges add $760.