Comparing Matrix & Corollla - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

Hedgehog48 · 03-26-2008, 09:36 AM

I sold my 96 Corolla last week to buy a used Matrix. I want something dependable to rack at least 150,000 to 200,000 miles on. So, here are a few questions.
1) How does the Matrix ride compared to a Corolla
2) How is the interior comfort between the two (I'm 6'0")
3) How come the Matrix gets roughly 4 MPG less than the Corolla
4) What year should I look for or stay away from?

Hedgehog48 · 03-26-2008, 10:06 AM

P.S.
One of the reasons I'm asking about ride quality is because several Toyota dealerships in my area have told me that the Corolla rides better than the Matrix. I thought they were the same chassis that's why I'm asking the owners. I want the best ride quality but like the function of a sport wagon.

Corolla_reps · 03-26-2008, 02:14 PM

i owned a TRIX XRS no doubt...better than a Rolla but both great cars considering Matrix is called Corolla Matrix ....Space wise, ride, power (well i drive a XRS) the only down side is GAS 91 premium kills it.....but for XR or Basic model should be good enough for gas mileage.....overall im having fun with my trix

Daox · 03-26-2008, 03:26 PM

To answer your first two questions you should go drive the two and see for yourself. My guess is that they'll be pretty much the same.

2) The Matrix gets worse gas mileage because of aerodynamic drag and weight. Its a heavier car and it has a larger back end. This also happens to give you a lot more cargo area. Its a trade off and your choice.

3) I haven't heard of any problems with any specific year.

kevintomb · 04-06-2008, 07:28 PM

matrix is a few hundred lbs heavier, it has stiffer springs for a sportier handling and somewhat stiffer ride, somewhat wider tires for more grip and more drag..and a higher profile and a shape that has more drag. It has MORE cargo room and BETTER passenger room. It is somewhat noisier also, mainly because of the open cargo area.

Smar969905 · 04-11-2008, 08:03 PM

i am 5'8" and used to drive a 90 camry. i would put the seat all the way back in it. i got rid of my camry and got an 03 XRS. i dont put the seat all the way back anymore.

my dad is 6'0" and he fits into my matrix without his hair brushing the ceiling of the car. his hair was just at the ceiling in the camry.