2003 toyota Matrix Mpg

2003 toyota matrix mpg: Toyota began shipping its brand-new youth-focused Matrix to car dealerships in February 2002 as an early 2003 version. Described as a crossover energy vehicle, the Japanese automaker claims the Matrix incorporates the functionality of a sport utility vehicle with the photo and efficiency of a cars, yet it's as cost effective as a subcompact sedan. "Young purchasers want vehicles that are high in picture and high in functional energy," states Don Esmond, basic manager of Toyota Division.

As a result of its practical wagonlike arrangement, cars.com positions the Matrix hatchback-- and the closely relevant Pontiac Ambiance-- in the wagon group. Styled by Toyota's CALTY Design Workshop in Newport Coastline, Calif., the four-door Matrix adheres to the firm's street-performance utility motif.

High clearance as well as flexible sitting placements are among the Matrix's special qualities. 3 trim degrees are available: criterion, the step-up XR and also the high-performance XRS. The criterion and XR designs could be equipped with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or 4x4 (4WD). The XRS sporting activity version comes just with FWD and packs an extra 50 horse power as well as a six-speed-manual transmission-- a powertrain obtained from Toyota's Celica GT-S sport sports car. The Matrix is produced in Ontario, Canada.

2003 toyota matrix mpg

Exterior

The Matrix's fundamental appearance most resembles a tiny wagon-- a body design that appears to be making a moderate return. Although the platform is brand-new, it's similar to the one utilized by Toyota's popular subcompact Corolla sedan. Tips of the flashy Lexus IS 300 appear in the Matrix's front end. Toyota claims the "edge-web" body panels have sharp surface area edges, but they present rounded weblike shapes planned to yield solid, flowing personality lines.

Standard tires determine 16 inches in diameter, as well as the XR and also XRS can have optional 17-inchers. Alloy wheels are optional on the criterion and also XR designs, and they are basic on the XRS, which additionally features haze lights, a front spoiler and also a rear underbody looter.

Interior

The Matrix seats 5 occupants, as well as the rear seats fold all the way to create a level flooring. A sliding track in the freight flooring can be adjusted to hold numerous way of life devices. The driver faces deep-set Optitron assesses, and also a navigation system is optional.

Standard tools consists of cooling with an air filter, power mirrors, periodic wipers and also a cargo cover. The XR includes power windows and door locks, keyless entry, a sport guiding wheel and also an upright seat-height adjuster. A four-speaker CD stereo is typical, but the XRS gets a six-speaker cassette as well as CD system. Optimum cargo volume with the seats folded down is 53.2 cubic feet.

Under the Hood

The requirement as well as XR versions get a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 130 hp; designs equipped with 4WD generate 123 hp. Collaborating with variable shutoff modern technology (VVT-i), the engine meets Ultra Low Emissions Automobile (ULEV) demands. Either a four-speed-automatic or five-speed-manual transmission can be installed.

Available just with FWD, the XRS carries a 180-hp version of the 1.8-liter engine and also a close-ratio six-speed-manual transmission. Toyota's 4WD system has no center differential but uses a viscous coupling. If any type of wheel slips, as long as 50 percent of torque mosts likely to the back wheels.

Security

Anti-skid brakes are conventional in the XRS and also optional in the requirement and XR versions. Side-impact air bags are provided as an option.

Driving Impressions

The Matrix is well developed, nicely made and also stylish, yet very early drives created a somewhat unpleasant shock for a Toyota product: sound. It is quiet enough while cruising, however the 130-hp engine generated considerably extra audio than a Corolla during velocity, discharging a growly and practically whiny noise. Roadway noise is also noticeable. The base engine in versions furnished with the automatic transmission isn't really filled with zest. Gear modifications are recognizable yet not bothersome.

Security excels, and also it's simple to keep the Matrix on program. Steering with even more accuracy as well as much less wheel vibration compared to the Corolla, it still falls a little bit except promoting, though the XRS is much more refined.

Despite a sunroof, front clearance is great. Backseat space beats the Corolla's, and there's a whole lot more headroom than the low roofline suggests. Due to the fact that the navigating system lacks a touchscreen, it's not as easy to use as some systems on the marketplace.

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