About to buy a new car, need advices please!!! - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

Chien · 08-23-2003, 09:50 AM

Hi all,

I am new to the forum. My best friend is about to buy the new car and he is thinking either the Matrix or the Corolla. are ther any noticeable problems on you guys' corolla? And what was the reason u chose Corolla instead of Matrix? He has a 95 Corolla and he just loves it, but the sales told him Matrix and Corolla are basically the same except the look is different? And Matrix is a bit bigger inside in terms of the back seats since it's hatch back? What do you guys think?

Also we are in Toronto area, we are hoping some fellows can give us some advice on the price. We are only looking at the basic package. So what's the best price we can bargain for? Please give us some advice.

And just another question, if let you guys choose again, will u choose Matrix or Corolla?

Thanks and all the best!!

boroEF · 08-23-2003, 10:32 AM

they are identical cars with different exteriors as the salesperson told u. look at both base packages and see which car comes with more standard options. i'm lead to believe that the matric has more standard options and it's also more stylish than the corolla.

in the end it's all personal preference. matrix is supposed to be a mix of an suv, a wagon and a sportyish car. the corolla is just....well a corolla sedan.

Chien · 08-23-2003, 10:39 AM

Thanks!!

I read some post in Matrix forum and it seems that a lot of Matrix owners experienced a noticeable rattle from the dash. Does this happen to Corolla?? Of course, we are talking about the current model!

boroEF · 08-23-2003, 10:41 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Chien
Thanks!!

I read some post in Matrix forum and it seems that a lot of Matrix owners experienced a noticeable rattle from the dash. Does this happen to Corolla?? Of course, we are talking about the current model!

i have no idea. the best thing to do is test drive one and see.

if the one u picked up has an annoying rattle, u could always take it in...it's under warrenty, remember?

Chien · 08-23-2003, 10:43 AM

hee hee... I guess u r right! Thanks!!!

boroEF · 08-23-2003, 10:49 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Chien
hee hee... I guess u r right! Thanks!!!

no probbo

***Chris Corolla S*** · 08-25-2003, 01:16 PM

The base model Matrix will be slower than the Corolla because they are the same engine and chassis but the Matrix carries more weight. The Matrix will also cost a tad more. I would say get the Matrix only if you need the extra room or you really like the styling (I do). I think the 2003 Corolla CE would be a good choice you should be able to get one for under $14,000, but that's US$, so I don't know the exchange rate for CAN$.
One thing I reccomend above all for anyone buying a car with a four-cylinder engine and under 165 HP or so, is get a stick! the 5-speed will feel much quicker and get better fuel economy. I bought a 2001 Corolla new and if I had to choose between a base '03 Matrix and '03 Corolla I would get the Corolla because it is quicker and more nimble and better gas mileage and still has plenty of space for a single guy.
Chris