FROM THE LOGBOOK
"The Matrix is an enormously useful and fun-to-drive vehicle--but only if you ignore its shortcomings."--Chris Walton |
Some of our staff are getting used to the Matrix's notchy shifter and odd clutch takeup, while others feel like they're still learning to drive a stick. Shifting at the peak of the engine's powerband still has those of either camp gritting their teeth, waiting for pistons to shoot into orbit. Kudos to the designers who selected the interior fabrics, which look great and handle wear and tear well. The screw tighteners proved less adept, as a lot of plastic parts buzz and vibrate over rough roads. The Matrix's high-wagon look is paying off in the cargo-carrying department--Editorial Assistant Brian Vance placed a 32-inch-screen TV in the hatch with room to spare. There are no new problem areas to report, but we'll visit our dealer at the 15,000-mile mark for regular service.
| 2002 Toyota Matrix |
| Base price | $18,750 |
| Price as tested | $19,795 |
| Vehicle layout | Front engine, fwd, 4-door, 5-pass |
| Engine | 1.8L I-4, DOHC, 4 valves/cyl |
| Hp @ rpm | 180 @ 7600 |
| Torque @ rpm | 130 @ 6800 |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| 0-60 mph, sec | 7.8 |
| EPA mpg | 25 city/30 highway |
| Total mileage | 11,615 |
| Average test mpg | 23.0 |
| Problem areas | None |
| Non-warr cost | $0 |