Automotive
Towards the end of 2007, Toyota presented the second generation of the Matrix, commencing sales in early 2008 as a 2009 model year vehicle.
The Japanese manufacturer aimed to create a compact hatchback that combined the spaciousness of a minivan with the compactness of a station wagon, essentially a crossover without elevated ground clearance. Consumer interest focused primarily on features, specifications, and pricing rather than categorization. Toyota’s renowned reliability was a given, and the vehicle’s safety was validated by rigorous testing from the NHTSA and IIHS in the United States. The Matrix excelled in crash tests, earning four stars for side impacts and rollover, and five stars in three other categories: driver’s front, driver’s side, and passenger’s front. Available in multiple trim levels, including an all-wheel drive variant, the Matrix also shared its platform with the Pontiac Vibe, which was discontinued in 2009 as part of GM’s decision to phase out the Pontiac brand during the global financial crisis.
The front fascia showcased a sporty appearance with swept-back headlights framing a narrow upper grille. The lower bumper featured a central air intake flanked by fog lamp housings, depending on the trim level. The XRS variant distinguished itself with a unique badge integrated into the upper mesh grille.
From the side profile, a short hood led to a raked windshield, with the waistline gently ascending from the headlights to the C-pillars. Blacked-out B-pillars created the illusion of a three-door hatchback. The sloping roofline terminated in a spoiler on the tailgate, depending on the trim. Standard wheel options included 16-inch alloy wheels with an optional 17-inch set, while the XRS came standard with 18-inch alloys. Rear lighting was positioned high for protection, and exhaust configurations varied between single and dual setups based on trim level.
The interior featured a driver-centric dashboard layout, with a light gray center console contrasting against a black passenger-side panel. The instrument cluster displayed a binocular design, centered around the speedometer flanked by a tachometer on the left and an oval-shaped cluster containing fuel and temperature gauges along with an LCD odometer on the right. The rear seating consisted of a 60/40 split-folding bench capable of accommodating three passengers, with sufficient legroom for the center occupant despite the presence of a transmission tunnel.
Under the hood, buyers could choose between two engine options delivering 132 hp (134 PS) and 158 hp (160 PS). Transmission choices included a five-speed manual or a four- or five-speed automatic, with the latter available in XR and XRS versions. Notably, the Matrix offered various rear suspension setups, including a double-wishbone configuration for the XRS variant.
