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Old 12-19-2003, 03:24 AM   #1 (permalink)
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Need Matrix Opinions

Hello everyone. I am currently a happy owner of a 2001 Sentra SE, but I am doing a little research for the possibility of another car.

This would be more of a family car for my wife (who keep in mind doesn't drive stick). She likes the Matrix since it appears to have some decent cargo/trunk space and some leg room in the back. It also seems like something I would like to drive when we go out together instead of god forbid a mini-van (they are cool, but not what I am looking for).

Few questions:
What is the difference between the entry level Matrix and the Matrix XR?
Horsepower numbers?
Specs?
Is the supercharger worth it?
What do you like most of your vehicle?
What do you hate most of your vehicle?
Would you recommend it?
If not then what would you recommend?

Any comments appreciated
Thanks
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Old 12-19-2003, 02:07 PM   #2 (permalink)
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Well the matrix is a great car. I have a 2004 Toyota matrix XR. For all specs and comparisons between models just go to toyota.com and it will have the charts. The base and xr models have 130 hp. The super charger by TRD adds about 50 hp for around $2700( so u can see if 50 hp is worth it for u). I love the head room, leg room, and arm space in it. As for truck space I really wouldn't know cuz i have two 12" subs in my truck so i have no space, but the folding down back seats is useful. There really isn't anything i don't like about my car.
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Old 12-19-2003, 04:21 PM   #3 (permalink)
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Is the supercharger available for all the models? Or is the engine on the XRS different? I would definitely love to get a Supercharger and would pay that price. Since I live in California, I have CARB to worry about therefore I couldn't go turbo, or install a bunch of aftermarket stuff.
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Old 12-19-2003, 05:23 PM   #4 (permalink)
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The S/C is only avaiable for the base & XR models.

The XRS only comes in 6-speed, so since you want auto, it'd be nice to get an auto XR and SC it, you'll be as fast if not faster(w/ proper tuning) than the XRS.
The gas milage isn't too bad either.
Go on www.matrixowners.com and search around for more info about the SC.

I fit 2 huge PA system speakers(3ft tall and about 1ft across) in the back of my matrix, and there was still room to spare.
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Old 12-19-2003, 09:29 PM   #5 (permalink)
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If I didn't have my XRS yet and was looking for something like the Matrix XR now, I'd probably get the Mazda3 over the Matrix XR.
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Old 12-20-2003, 06:11 AM   #6 (permalink)
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Quote:
Originally posted by MATR6
The S/C is only avaiable for the base & XR models.

The XRS only comes in 6-speed, so since you want auto, it'd be nice to get an auto XR and SC it, you'll be as fast if not faster(w/ proper tuning) than the XRS.
The gas milage isn't too bad either.
Go on www.matrixowners.com and search around for more info about the SC.

I fit 2 huge PA system speakers(3ft tall and about 1ft across) in the back of my matrix, and there was still room to spare.
Thanks for the info. I'll check out that website.
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Old 12-20-2003, 06:11 AM   #7 (permalink)
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Quote:
Originally posted by mistamatrix
If I didn't have my XRS yet and was looking for something like the Matrix XR now, I'd probably get the Mazda3 over the Matrix XR.
I'll have to look into the Mazda 3. Any particular reason why you would make the change?
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Old 03-21-2004, 11:49 PM   #8 (permalink)
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Quote:
Originally posted by BLAZETIGER
I'll have to look into the Mazda 3. Any particular reason why you would make the change?
I'M BACK!!! This question still isn't answered...

Anyways, so far I've gone over the Matrix, Sienna, Scion xA, Corolla, and now back to the Matrix. Still car shopping after 3 months.
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Old 03-22-2004, 12:45 AM   #9 (permalink)
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Here's the breakdown for you Blazetiger:


What is the difference between the entry level Matrix and the Matrix XR?

The entry level Matrix has a 1.8 L engine, 130 hp, power doors, locks and windows, a premium sound system, and four doors. The XR model has all of these things, the same engine, except it adds a lot of features like cruise control, sometimes 17" aluminum rims instead of 16" hub caps, sometimes a bodykit with foglights, and all of the little tidbits such as floor mats, I can't think of what else.

Horsepower numbers?


Entry level and XR have 130 HP, but are overcharged which gives them a decent kick. These are both the Corolla engine. The XRS model stocks the Celica engine, which is a 1.8 L 173 HP, 4 cyl, with relative foot-pound torque to its sister engine, the Corolla's.

Specs?

They all carry the same struts and suspension, 4WD is available in some models.

Is the supercharger worth it?

If this is a family car like you say, then you are going to sacrifice a significant amount of gas mileage, as well as throw on insurance costs that are similar to owning a Celica. Best to stick without it.

However, the XRS engine does make the Matrix perform better over its lower models, similarly to what you see with Civic Si over its lower models. It is significantly faster, and has powerful cornering power. The base model Matrix is already hella fun to drive, but the XRS provides a lot of additional fun.

What do you like most of your vehicle?

What I like most about my vehicle is its ability to not sway greatly in tight turns, you feel massively in control. Also the bells and whistles that Toyota has thrown into the Matrix make it the funnest car I've ever driven. It feels sporty, but is highly economical at the same time.

What do you hate most of your vehicle?

What I hate most about my Matrix is the upright seating, although it has major benefits as well. The upright seating creates a lot more horizontal space by maximizing verticle space, also, it helps me stay entirely concious while driving because my body is upright.

Would you recommend it?

Absolutely. Just test drive it once and you will understand why driving this car is addictive.
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Old 03-22-2004, 12:51 AM   #10 (permalink)
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Thumbs up

cheezdip - That was an awesome breakdown!

If I do get one it will either be the base model or the xR. I've been trying to find an AWD one, but can't. Not even on Toyota's official website.

As for the S/C issue, why would it make my insurance go up? Isn't it just based on the VIN number and since the S/C is aftermarket/optional then the insurance company shouldn't be aware of it unless I go in and tell them right? I would like this option just to give it a little extra ooomph when I have the car fully loaded with either family or grocery's. Also, once I'm done with my car I'll move on to this one and start modding it.
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Old 08-01-2004, 10:10 PM   #11 (permalink)
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8 months later and its FINALLY here!!

Went out and bought a new 2005 Toyota Matrix with 10 miles on the speedo.

S/C will be added by next year if all goes well. Insurance company shouldn't matter since it will be added after the car was bought and after their initial inspection.
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Old 08-02-2004, 08:39 PM   #12 (permalink)
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right on, somebody a little closer to fresburg (fresno).
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Old 08-02-2004, 09:08 PM   #13 (permalink)
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Congrats! What color did you end up getting?
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Old 08-02-2004, 09:39 PM   #14 (permalink)
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Quote:
Originally posted by mistamatrix
Congrats! What color did you end up getting?

Phantom Gray Pearl. Looks good. My first mod will make it look even better. WINDOW TINT!!!
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Old 08-03-2004, 03:54 PM   #15 (permalink)
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well my 03 matrix(base)auto is currently undergoing a bunch of mods right now. its getting an SC and all my internals are getting
changed plus a custom exuast system,and a custom ignition system,and last but not least a venom kit. wieght reduction is in the process to. so i can really do some damage!!!
so in conclusion it really doesnt matter what u get,as long as u like it!
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