Toyota Won’t Build Sub-Compact Crossover, Matrix Likely Axed
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Toyota might be nixing the Matrix after two generations of building the Corolla-based hatchback.
Originally a joint-venture between General Motors and Toyota, the Matrix was also sold as the Pontiac Vibe, but that car died along with the brand.
Now, Toyota is thinking about discontinuing the car for the U.S. market, although it will remain in Canada. It isn’t clear when Toyota will stop selling the Matrix, but the Corolla, along with several other vehicles, is due for a redesign next year, which could serve as an easy break for the brand.
I have really liked the Matrix since it was first released. I came close to buying one when my wife was pregnant with our first child. She had a bad nausea episode while we were test driving it (probably induced by the donuts I was doing) and she was totally against the car from then on. So I ended up with an Acura CL Type S. ;-) I bought a used '05 Vibe for my father-in-law and it has been great. I recommend the Matrix to everyone I have run into who are considering a small wagon. If I was in the market for a small wagon, I seriously consider getting one. I just wish the 2.4L AWD 5-speed manual was an option. If they drop the Matrix they won't have anything in this space unless they come up with some new 5-door Corolla.
I have really liked the Matrix since it was first released. I came close to buying one when my wife was pregnant with our first child. She had a bad nausea episode while we were test driving it (probably induced by the donuts I was doing) and she was totally against the car from then on. So I ended up with an Acura CL Type S. ;-) I bought a used '05 Vibe for my father-in-law and it has been great. I recommend the Matrix to everyone I have run into who are considering a small wagon. If I was in the market for a small wagon, I seriously consider getting one. I just wish the 2.4L AWD 5-speed manual was an option. If they drop the Matrix they won't have anything in this space unless they come up with some new 5-door Corolla.
.. there were concerns the Matrix gets rattly as it gains the miles, and it may not be built as well as other cars.
.. there were concerns the Matrix gets rattly as it gains the miles, and it may not be built as well as other cars.
But its a Toyota, it will run forever, that's all that matters
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If they drop the Matrix, they have the Scion XB
Matrix buyers are not necessarily xB buyers...different demographics. The next xB should go back to its roots. If they just make a Corolla hatch, most of us would be fine with it, as it could compete with the 3, Focus and Elantra GT.
What Toyota really needs is a hot hatch to compete with the likes of the Focus, Mazda 3, Impreza, etc. etc. Hatchbacks are gaining in popularity in the US but they have to have some visual appeal, . . . . which the Matrix did not.
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But its a Toyota, it will run forever, that's all that matters
Point taken
Matrix buyers are not necessarily xB buyers...different demographics. The next xB should go back to its roots. If they just make a Corolla hatch, most of us would be fine with it, as it could compete with the 3, Focus and Elantra GT.
From an economic standpoint, the XB makes more sense. Hiopefully the next Xb will be radically different then the current one.
What Toyota really needs is a hot hatch to compete with the likes of the Focus, Mazda 3, Impreza, etc. etc. Hatchbacks are gaining in popularity in the US but they have to have some visual appeal, . . . . which the Matrix did not.
I'm on the same page as you with this; the Auris is very viable. If Toyota could sell the Matrix side by side with the Corolla, it makes no sense not to sell and manufacture them here.
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Originally Posted by zythr
From an economic standpoint, the XB makes more sense. Hiopefully the enxt Xb will be radically different then the current one.
if they bring them, they will sell; that is what they did with the first car
I'm on the same page as you with this; the Auris is very viable. If Toyota could sell the Matrix side by side with the Corolla, it makes no sense not to sell and manufacture them here.
if they bring them, they will sell; that is what they did with the first car
True. I even contacted Toyota to see if there is a next Gen of the XB if the gauges could be put back where they belong, in front of the driver.
the first gen Matrix looked 10 times better that this one... in my opinion it had a lot more sportier appeal, the XR model, and looked much better on the inside... the new one is smaller, uglier and just not practical...
the first gen Matrix looked 10 times better that this one... in my opinion it had a lot more sportier appeal, the XR model, and looked much better on the inside... the new one is smaller, uglier and just not practical...
Toyota was probably trying to separate the Matrix from the Vibe, style wise.
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Point taken
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