Toyota Matrix XRS VS 2003 Honda CRV EX

[Fred Garvin]

First off, I've read through multiple threads in this forum and have found lots of useful information for potential buyers like myself.

I currently drive a 98 camry LE(loaded) and looking for something with a little bit more power and something more fun to drive. I'm 6'3" and need a vehicle that will seat me comfortably. I've narrowed my choices down to the Toyota Matrix XRS or the 2003 Honda CRV EX as vehicles that would be a nice commuter and great for road trips.

Here how the two stack up vs on another.

Engine:
Matrix XRS 180hp @ 6000* (130hp below 6000)
CRV EX 160hp@6000
*I hear a lot of complaints about keeping the Matrix in its sweet spot above 6000rpm

Price:
The Matrix XRS is $3000 less than the CRV EX (side note: I dont like the new Element so don't even go there)

Fuel Efficiency:
Even though the Matrix XRS uses premium fuel, I calculated the annual fuel cost would still be $200 cheaper than the CRV (calculations based on CRV 22mpg (city) Matrix 30mpg (city) assuming fuel costs are $1.80/gal Regular and $2.00/ gal Premium).

Capacity:
The CRV kicks butt on storage 72 cu ft. and a respectable 54 cu ft. for the smaller Matrix. My girlfriend and I ride mountain bikes so being able to store 2 M Bikes in the back of a CRV has a definite appeal. Whereas the Matrix I'd have to purchase an after market roof rack. (not wild about that and don't like the styling of the Vibe)

I guess what I'm looking for is information that would tip the scales in favor of one vehicle over another-- How your vehicle performs climbing hills and passing and the like. HELP ME CHOOSE!!!

[Dredd2099]

looks like ur made for the great outdoors
by the way u describe on how ur going to be using the vehicle
most then ur likely goin to be better off in the CRV
climbing hills? Luv mountain biking? that means ud have to do a lil off roading once in a while
CRV is a AWD
XRS is a FWD
no contest, CRV wins

[flow]

Here's a solution to your bike problem:

I'm a mountain biker too and I hate putting my bike in the vehicle after a ride because it's usually dirty and I have through axle wheels so it's a pain in the but to take them off.

If you did choose the Matrix you could buy the Toyota hitch and hitchmount rack. I use both and carry 3 - 45lb downhill bikes up north all the time on my corolla. That way you don't sacrifice interior cargo space and you're car stays clean inside.

I've driven both vehicles and would choose an XRS because it offers some of the versatility of the CR-V but is still fun to drive. It's a quick car and even though you need to keep the RPM's a little higher to feel the power I'm sure you'll enjoy the VVTi every chance you get.

Personally I think the XRS offers one of the best values on the market in terms of power, standard equipment and style per $.

my 2 cents

[rezzle]

http://autos.yahoo.com/compare/compa...03matrixxrs4x2

[mistamatrix]

I agree 100% with flow. When you stick the bikes in the vehicle, you're stuck w/ the hassle of vacuuming the interior.

The only thing I think the CRV has on the XRS is cargo room. I'd rather have the XRS for fun driving factor.