2009 Toyota Matrix

If you're looking to graduate from your Scion xD or xB, look no further than Toyota's second-gen Matrix. Self-described as a "sport/utility with coupelike design," Europeans would call this Corolla variation a hatchback (except it's not sold there). With its fierce-toaster nose, the Pontiac Vibe's brother aims itself at 25- to 30-year-old men.

Build variations are complicated: There are base, S, and XRS front drive, with five-speed manual or four-speed automatic, rear torsion beam on base and S; control-arm independent-rear on the XRS. And there's S all-wheel drive, with four-speed automatic only, and the IRS.

The Scion xD's 132-horsepower, 1.8-liter engine is standard, and the xB's 158-horsepower, 2.4-liter is optional, except that it's standard in the AWD S. Only Toyota (or GM in the old days) could pull off such complication.

Dynamics are simple: It's more fun to drive than either Scion or the Corolla, zipping around corners with controlled body roll like a decent sport/compact. Whether or not you need the hatchba...er, sport/utility's utility, it's the enthusiast's Corolla to have.