The XRS Question

[asterisk]

I'm looking at getting a Matrix, a 2003 to be more exact due to budget restrictions. I've driven a '05 and have been pleased by the car but it doesn't quite have as much pep as my 2nd gen Integra (RIP). I've been thinking of getting a XRS instead.

I want the cargo space, but I'd like some fun sporting power just for the fun drives and all. I've heard mixed reviews as to the actual feel of if an XRS feels much ballsier or not. Also, is the extra gear, making it a 6-speed, a good thing or just kind of annoying at times? The fact that the XRS comes with most the safety features standard make me a little more secure too, I have to admit.

Finally, I know that the XRS engine is pretty much the same as the Celica GT-S's but is it more likely that the XRS engine would cost more to service in the long run? Perhaps would the 6 speed tranny be more expensive to service or (gasp) replace?

Thanks a bunch. I'm sure you get plenty of new guys on the forum asking a dozen questions like this. I did my best to search old threads.

[xrs22]

Welcom to TN asterisk, santa cruz ehh. Was there last year and got our asses handed to us in softball. I think the trip to the Mystery Spot messed my equilibrium up a bit. Well the XRS has the "Lift" factor that seperates from the rest. I have an '03 XRS and love the hell out of it. It has good space for my kids' stuff and some custom fiberglass speaker boxes that someone is producing on here. I don't know much about the '05 models but are slightly less in hp. The '03's are 180hp, at the crank or wheels i'm not sure but someone here does. I'm currently running a Mugen CAI, custome 2.5" exhaust w/ out resonator, hyper ground wires, Hotchkis springs, waiting for my Progress rear sway bar and soon some ecu enhancements.

[mistamatrix]

Welcome to TN, asterisk!

I have an 03 XRS 6 speed and I think you'll be happy w/ it. The 6th gear is basically a second overdrive gear. On the hwy, it'll optimize your gas mileage.

As for maintenance, I don't think you'd be paying any more if you had a Celica GTS.

The VVTL-i engine will keep you happy all day long especially when you hit 6200rpm+!

[silver04rollas]

The 05s Matrix/Corolla XRS have stronger midrange end torque for city driving and hit peak torque twice at 4400 rpm and 6800 rpm after lift kicks in. The cost is a higher lift engagement at 6600 rpm - 8400 rpm instead of 6200 rpm in the 03. They put down almost the same peak HP tp the wheels at 7600 rpm as the 04 and 03 (see 05 Corolla XRS dynos with injen exhaust in corolla section, which are 161 whp and 162 whp in two different XRSs).

As for pep, I have not driven the Trix XRS myself since Trix has a bigger interior and overall larger in every dimension than the Corolla XRS and different suspension and wheels, but I have beaten a late 90s Integra GS-R with exhaust all three times despite similar power ratings and curb weight. The guy felt insulted to be beaten by a Corolla and kept wanting to race for another two times till he cooled off. 2ZZ engine sounds beautiful and like a sports motorbike sound, you would rather love to hear the nice symphony than not.

As for maintenance, it is a Toyota engine. Despite having a high revving and high strung nature, this engine does not require anymore maintenance than my previous 04 Corolla S. It is one refined and well built engine.

My highest recommendation for the XRS Matrix/Corolla. You will thank yourself later on down the road.

[Xdog]

I'm having a lot of fun with mine. It looks cool, stores a ton, and actually has a decent little set of balls!

I regretted very briefly not getting the XR-AWD version (I'm a skier). But after driving both, I must say I prefer the pep of the XRS. I'm not an A/T fan either.

Good luck.

[Trixster]

i have an 04 Xrs and if u are going to get the matrix you should def get the Xrs! I havent had any problems... well that werent my fault. I can do anything in that car i heard that the 2zz is the same motor that is going in the lotus elise so u know its not a bad one. the transmission is good just watch your shifting...