As in past years, the 2009 Toyota Matrix is basically a taller version of the Corolla (and also shares it's fundamental design with the Pontiac Vibe), and provides more space for those looking for additional practicality, as well as a very different look.
The front-wheel-drive Matrix is 3 inches taller than the Corolla, providing important extra headroom, as well as additional cargo space. And it also continues to feature its economical 1.8 liter engine.
However, new for 2009, the XR has been replaced with the midrange S model, and the top-of-the-line XRS model is equipped with a new 2.4 liter engine which ups the ante considerably on both horsepower and torque.
The XRS also sports an independent rear suspension, firmer shock absorbers and springs, as well as a front strut tower brace, all for improved handling.
The 2009 Matrix is available in three trim levels; base, S and XRS.
Standard features on the base Matrix include air conditioning, 16-inch steel wheels, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, power mirrors, front bucket seats, height-adjustable driver seat, center console, split folding rear seat, power mirrors, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, digital-media player connection, intermittent wipers, cargo cover, rear defogger, tachometer, and a theft-deterrent system.
Cruise control, power windows, power locks, and keyless entry are all available as options on the base Matrix.
Update: Weak Economy Leads To Lower Matrix Prices:
There's no question that dealers are struggling in the current economic climate ... which means there are some extremely good deals to be had right now on a new Matrix ... often below invoice prices, sometimes far below.
See the link at the bottom of this article for exactly how to get the lowest price on a new Toyota Matrix.
On the S trim, all of the above items are standard, as are underbody spoilers, an upgraded stereo, a 115-volt utility outlet, a rear window wiper, and a fold-flat passenger seat.
The AWD S adds all-wheel drive, 4-speed automatic transmission (as opposed to the standard 5-speed manual), heated power mirrors, fog lights, and an independent rear suspension, although it loses the underbody spoilers.
The uplevel Matrix XRS, while appearing like the front-wheel drive S, adds 18 inch alloy wheels, a rear roof spoiler, a sport-tuned suspension and steering, upgraded fabric, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with radio controls, cruise control, traction control, and an antiskid system.
Available optional features include a sunroof and an in-dash CD changer on any of the trims. A JBL sound system, satellite radio, navigation (with real-time traffic capability) and an auto-dimming rearview mirror are available S and XRS options.
Powering the base Toyota Matrix is a 1.8 liter four-cylinder engine that produces 132 horsepower and 128 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, while a four-speed automatic is optional.
The S and XRS models are equipped with a 2.4 liter engine that's rated at 158 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. It's coupled with either a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission on both the XRS and front-drive S. The AWD S is available with a four-speed automatic only.
The EPA estimated gas mileage for the 1.8 liter engine is a very attractive 26 mpg city and 32 mpg on the highway with the manual, and 25 mpg city and 31 mpg highway with the automatic.
The fuel economy for the 2.4 liter manual is 21 mpg city and 28 highway, while the automatic gets 21 and 29. The gas mileage for the AWD is 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.
Standard safety equipment on all 2009 Matrix models include antilock disc brakes (ABS), dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, brake assist, front-seat active head restraints, tire-pressure monitor, and daytime running lights.
In addition, stability control is included on the XRS (optional on the other trims).
How To Buy A New Matrix At The Best Price: Before listing MSRP and invoice prices for the 2009 Matrix, here's an article about how to get the absolute best price on one, especially given the current slow auto sales environment.
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