2003 toyota Matrix

2003 toyota matrix: Toyota started delivering its brand-new youth-focused Matrix to dealers in February 2002 as an early 2003 model. Described as a crossover energy automobile, the Japanese automaker says the Matrix integrates the performance of a sport utility vehicle with the image and performance of a cars, yet it's as affordable as a subcompact car. "Young purchasers want lorries that are high in photo and high in functional utility," says Don Esmond, basic manager of Toyota Department.

Due to its practical wagonlike setup, cars.com places the Matrix hatchback-- and the closely associated Pontiac Ambiance-- in the wagon category. Styled by Toyota's CALTY Layout Workshop in Newport Beach, Calif., the four-door Matrix adheres to the firm's street-performance energy style.

High clearance and also versatile seatsing positions are amongst the Matrix's unique features. 3 trim levels are readily available: requirement, the step-up XR as well as the high-performance XRS. The standard and also XR versions may be geared up with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or 4x4 (4WD). The XRS sport design comes only with FWD as well as packs an additional 50 horse power and a six-speed-manual gearbox-- a powertrain borrowed from Toyota's Celica GT-S sport coupe. The Matrix is created in Ontario, Canada.

2003 toyota matrix

Outside

The Matrix's standard look most resembles a little wagon-- a body design that appears to be making a moderate resurgence. Although the platform is brand-new, it's similar to the one utilized by Toyota's popular subcompact Corolla car. Hints of the flashy Lexus IS 300 appear in the Matrix's front end. Toyota states the "edge-web" body panels have sharp surface area sides, but they display rounded weblike contours meant to produce solid, moving personality lines.

Common tires measure 16 inches in size, and also the XR and also XRS can have optional 17-inchers. Alloy wheels are optional on the standard and XR designs, and they are basic on the XRS, which likewise includes haze lights, a front spoiler and also a rear underbody looter.

Inside

The Matrix seats five residents, and also the back seats fold up all the way to create a flat flooring. A sliding track in the freight flooring can be adapted to hold various way of life devices. The driver faces deep-set Optitron determines, and also a navigation system is optional.

Typical devices consists of cooling with an air filter, power mirrors, recurring wipers and also a freight cover. The XR adds power doors and windows locks, keyless entrance, a sport steering wheel as well as an upright seat-height insurer. A four-speaker CD stereo is basic, yet the XRS gets a six-speaker cassette and also CD system. Optimum freight volume with the seats folded down is 53.2 cubic feet.

Under the Hood

The criterion as well as XR editions obtain a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that creates 130 hp; designs equipped with 4WD create 123 hp. Dealing with variable valve technology (VVT-i), the engine satisfies Ultra Low Emissions Lorry (ULEV) requirements. Either a four-speed-automatic or five-speed-manual transmission can be set up.

Readily available only with FWD, the XRS brings a 180-hp variation of the 1.8-liter engine and a close-ratio six-speed-manual gearbox. Toyota's 4WD system has no center differential however makes use of a viscous coupling. If any type of wheel slips, as long as HALF of torque mosts likely to the rear wheels.

Security

Anti-skid brakes are basic in the XRS and also optional in the standard and XR models. Side-impact airbags are offered as an alternative.

Driving Impacts

The Matrix is well developed, nicely created and also elegant, however very early drives created a slightly undesirable shock for a Toyota item: noise. It is quiet enough while cruising, however the 130-hp engine yielded substantially more sound than a Corolla throughout velocity, emitting a growly and also practically whiny noise. Roadway sound is likewise noticeable. The base engine in models equipped with the transmission isn't really filled with zest. Equipment changes are visible but not annoying.

Security readies, as well as it's simple to keep the Matrix on course. Guiding with more accuracy and also less wheel vibration than the Corolla, it still falls a little bit short of boosting, though the XRS is more improved.

Despite a sunroof, front headroom is excellent. Rear seat room beats the Corolla's, and also there's a great deal more headroom compared to the low roofline recommends. Since the navigating system does not have a touchscreen, it's not as easy to use as some systems on the market.

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