Added: 12/29/2005 |
The 2006 Toyota Matrix – A Sporty, Practical Solution For The 21st Century DriverComparisons between a 2005 Toyota Matrix and the 2006 version will prompt you to believe that Toyota has reduced its engine outputs, but in reality there has been no change other than in the methodology used to calculate power outputs. The 2006 Toyota Matrix remains every bit as powerful as it was in 2005.
Design
The casual observer would not be too far off the mark recognising that the 2006 Toyota Matrix shares a lot of similarities with the Corolla or in the U.K. the Corolla Verso. The design is tall yet the moulded curves, particularly around the rear wheel arches are deceptive by making the Toyota appear to be built primarily for speed. The designers have done a nice job though, because the Toyota's lines are sufficiently attractive to make it stand out against rivals chasing the same market.
There are also useful features built into the design such as a lift-up tailgate, and a frame less rear window that can be opened separately. The 2006 Toyota Matrix also comes with a new front bumper and grille while at the other end a clear lens combination tail lamp set appears sporty.
Model Range
Included in the three trim levels on offer to U.S. buyers are a standard Matrix priced at $15,110, equipped with five speed manual transmission. A four-speed automatic option is available at $15,910, and there's also a four wheel drive automatic costing $17,645. For an additional $510 customers are able to purchase a Power Package which includes electric windows, door locks and remote key less access. Air conditioning an AM/FM radio with CD player are standard. Not found in the 2005 Toyota Matrix are a seat height lever adjuster, sliding sun visor, UV cut glass, plus a new audio head unit design with separate clock display. The three trim levels include Front wheel-drive and All Wheel Drive (AWD) versions with the standard and XR models driven by a 1.8 (126 horsepower unit); (123 horsepower with AWD). The top of the range Matrix XRS is installed with a high performance version of the 1.8 unit that produces 164 horsepower.
Equipment offered with the 2006 Toyota Matrix XR priced at $16,590 includes Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS) which includes a clever Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD) system, electric door locks, electric windows, remote central locking and a rear window wiper. The automatic version is priced at $17,420 while the AWD and automatic is keenly priced at $18,985. Additional extras can be purchased courtesy of two Extra Value Packages the first priced at $270 includes cruise control, fog lamps, and front and rear spoilers; the second priced at $880 includes 16 inch alloy wheels and an electric moonroof. Not found in a 2005 Toyota Matrix is an all new JBL premium sound system equipped with an in-built 6-disc CD changer priced at an extra $600.
The 2006 Toyota Matrix XRS is priced at $19,100 and Toyota is only offering this sporty machine with a six speed manual transmission and front-wheel drive. Alloy wheels, four wheel disc brakes, ABS and EBD are all standard features. The JBL sound system is optional.
Safety
Several safety options are available including side-impact airbags $645; Vehicle Stability Control $650; Anti-Lock Brakes with integrated electronic brake-force distribution $390.
Interior
The 2006 Toyota Matrix offers its driver good all round visibility thanks to an upright driving position, while the dash display glows red at all times providing clear indication of what's happening under the hood. Toyota quality is very good and the materials used should therefore last a long time. The designers have used plastic that appears like brushed aluminium where appropriate and created an fashion statement that is generally favoured.
There is 15 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats which split 60/40. Both rear seats can be made to disappear at the flick of a button in order to leave a flat floor with a capacity of 53 cubic feet. A hard ribbed plastic that can be easily cleaned provides the floor space, and a carpet option is available. In addition storage compartments and netting help make life easier if you have to carry bulky or awkward cargo. As manufacturers attempt to think of what else they can provide to make life easier for all of us, Toyota has come up with something clever as well as useful by offering a 115 volt power outlet located in the dash next to a 12 volt outlet, that could be used to power a laptop.
On the Road
The 1.8 (126 horsepower) engines rev freely and manual changes are slick. In this guise the Matrix can provide between 30/35 mpg. Things don't get much slower with the four speed automatic and economy suffers ever so slightly by only offering 28/33 mpg.
The steering feels accurate and the body does not lean as much as you might think it would, which makes the handling enjoyably easy. Braking is also very good with little trace of fade when worked hard.
The XRS feels more powerful in the upper ranges compared with its lower powered sisters. However it's an engine that needs to be revved hard to get the best out of it, and only noticeably gains over the other engined Matrix when the rev counter is reading between 6-8,000 rpm. It's red-lined at 8,400 rpm. A six speed gearbox borrowed from the Celica provides the manual transmission although Matrix uses taller gears. Keeping within the law the 2006 Toyota Matrix XRS should be able to provide economy between 26/32 mpg.
The AWD versions do not feel as spritely as their two wheeled drive cousins, but the bonus of AWD is better traction in ice and snow. Fuel economy with the Matrix AWD XR is between 26/30 mpg.
Whatever version of the 2006 Toyota Matrix tempts you towards it, will not disappoint you. Ownership of any of version will always remain a rewarding experience.
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