Toyota Road Tests

January 26, 2010
2010 Toyota Matrix XR Review
by Marc Bouchard , Auto123.com

The Toyota Matrix has an identity problem. It still hasn’t decided whether it wants to be a wagon or a small compact car. But in either case, it attracts a certain type of client, one that’s looking for a little bit of comfort and a little bit of space.

At that price, and with such a mix of interesting features, the Matrix continues to be one of the top choices offered by Toyota.

Be careful though: compact is the key word here. Toyota refreshed its design language a few years ago and doesn’t exactly offer an alternative to full-size cars. But despite that, the Matrix is definitely a quality vehicle and although stingy on the thrills, it proves reliable and efficient.

Curvy and stylish
Admit it, the old Matrix was disarming in its simplicity. Since the introduction a few years back of Toyota’s Vibrant Clarity design language (a concept I still haven’t quite grasped but that rounded out a few corners on the cars), the Matrix is distinctly more appealing.

The front end takes up Toyota’s staple features, small, slightly elevated head lamps and a rather flat hood. The emphasis in back has been put on aerodynamics, with rounded out cargo area edges.

The result is quite fetching on first glance, but does lead us to expect some visibility and loading issues, which are confirmed upon use. Loading equipment, for instance, is heavily impaired by this rounder shape. As you can imagine, it’s not easy to fit an angular package like a box into a space that is all curves and no corners. You get the impression that you’re loosing a lot of space in favour of flash.

Ditto visibility. Front visibility isn’t the issue, as the driving position easily allows you to see through a good-size windshield. Rear visibility is another story entirely, profoundly impaired as it is by an obviously under-size window, despite the fact that it now wraps around the sides.

As for the cabin, it reflects the aforementioned qualities: modern, efficient, but a bit cramped.

The round instruments seem to pop out in 3D and really pack a visual punch.

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: Toyota 4Runner 2010 : : Toyota Avalon 2011 : : Toyota Camry 2011 : : Toyota Camry Hybrid 2011 : : Toyota Corolla 2010 : : Toyota FJ Cruiser 2010 : : Toyota Highlander 2010 : : Toyota Highlander Hybrid 2010 : : Toyota Matrix 2010 : : Toyota Prius 2010 : : Toyota RAV4 2WD 2010 : : Toyota RAV4 4WD 2010 : : Toyota Sequoia 2010 : : Toyota Sienna 2011 : : Toyota Sienna AWD 2011 : : Toyota Tacoma 2WD 2011 : : Toyota Tacoma 4WD 2011 : : Toyota Tundra : : Toyota Venza 2010 : : Toyota Yaris Hatchback 2010 : : Toyota Yaris Sedan 2010 :