Hi everybody!

I was just checking out the '09 Matrix (specifically the AWD one) and was curious what everyone thought about it. I did a quick search and didn't really find anything in depth about this.


The bigger 2.4L and AWD is a cause for worry, but from what I can tell all AWD models only come in automatic. And that's pretty funny. Otherwise it looks like the Matrix is trying to be luxury focused while juggling the sport-compact deal. I don't think it pulls it off too well.

Anyway. Open discussion, I was just curious what everyone's thoughts are on the Matrix.

 

I may be in the minority but I actually like the new Matrix redesign. I think I read either Car & Driver or Road and Track and they said it looked bland. Other than that though the Fit gets better mpg which is what I went for. but if you can live with the Matrix specs, price, and look, more power to you.

 

Ya I think it looks good.
Fit is still way better, IMO.

 

Eh, Matrix has been and still is a very bland looking car that tries too hard to look sporty.

 

Consider this when thinking Toyota. The two absolute most reliable car manufacturers in the world are Honda and Subaru. Why get a Matrix when you can get a Subaru that has a far superior AWD system and unique motors as well. Matrix is a stand alone vehicle and it reminds me of a PT Cruiser, whoop de do Edith! The mileage will be horrible and you will pay dearly for the Toyota name (just as with Honda), but really, what would you rather drive?
As we all know on this Forum, Honda is the best, period. Go with the excellent mileage, better style and you will continue to be happy.

 

Toyota has gone down hill in reliability lately (to #5 somewhere near Ford), they probably sell too many models to take care of? Honda vehicles are designed and tested better and it shows.

On Silly TV, Ford has been claiming to brought relability up to Toyota standards but since Toy has been slipping, this is not saying much, still around #5 ;)

All in all, Honda rules.

 

new matrix is looking pretty good, i wouldnt even have looked at the previous gen, but this one..much better

but still, Fit > Matrix

 

I've been checking out Matrices (Matrix's?) more closely since i posted this.. Probably my biggest exterior deterrent is the headlights. Matrix's are bland, it feels like. The Fit's are much more aggressive.

Two things I'm really jealous of are that independent hatch window and then the moonroof is always nice. But whatever, less weight for the Fit.

 

These two cars are kind of different. It all depends on whether you want it for the looks, the size, the fuel efficiency etc.

 

I looked over the Matrix in my search last spring and the Fit just had more ump as far as interior usefulness, gas milage and heck - it just looks so much better on the exterior. The Matrix is a nice car but just not want I was looking for.

Cat:x

 

AWD = mass fuel economy killer. 2.4 liters also = fuel economy killer. But the obvious benefits of AWD and more power might be a good trade off. depends on what you want. I like the Matrix but I think the Fit is a better bang for the buck then all the other Toyota products I looked at. Depends on what you want. I dont think you can go wrong with Toyota.

 

I dont know, toyotas are pretty damn reliable. They are a well made japanese car that has always been a competitor of honda. I think the new matrix looks great and offers a very sporty look. I have always wanted to drive one, and for a hatch they come pretty well equipped. I dont know why everyone here is so against other hatches other then the Fit. Yes the fit is awesome but so many people have said it is horrid and ugly. It's all opinion, I think you're asking the wrong crowd here. Test one out and let us know what you think. Who knows, my 2.4 in my accord got decent mileage and it sure did pull all the way to 140!! No offense to all the fitfreakers on here, I just think we need to be open to other cars as well as honda brand.

http://www.toyota.com/img/vehicles/2...-Matrix-20.jpg

the shifter here was pretty fun in my brothers 2003 Si and 5thGear liked the shifter being closer to the driver too.

 

Astra 3-door > Matrix/Vibe

 

Yeah the Astra is nicer IMHO. It looks nicer (well at least the 3-door xr does) and handles much better, but the center console has like 100 buttons :hyper: and you dont know what each one means so you have to read the manual, but whatever, you can get around that.

 

True. I watch these boards to keep up on Fit stuff because I like the cars (except for the bad mileage). I drive a Yaris and love it but the Fit, price wise, is a better bang for the buck car. I have zero complaints with my Yaris. It's an '07 with 73,000, has never needed anything but oil changes and gets 39-43 MPG. But I'd never be so over zealous to say I'd never drive a Honda.