Anyone here drive a Toyota Matrix?

[devilgrrl]

If so, how do you like it? I'm looking new wheels and that's one of the cars in my crosshairs.

[Nite Owl]

1. I don't have one but

I just looked at the Matrix and loved it. If you drive stick the hp is not bad but 130hp in the auto I just couldn't do. I think the stick is 170. Very well made and comfortable.

[devilgrrl]

2. I'm looking for a stick shift!

I test drove a Mazda 3 hatchback yesterday - It kicked ass. I'll drive the Matrix sometime this week. I'm also looking at Honda Civic, Ford Focus and Pontiac Vibe.

Anyone familiar with these?

[devilgrrl]

4. kick again...

:kick: :mad:

[BigMcLargehuge]

5. Vibe and Matrix = same car, different interior/sheetmetal

Pontiac licenses buys the frame and powertrain from Toyota.

we have a focus hatchback and it's a peppy little care. We have the basest of base models so it's NO frills. The only issue I have with it is wind noise. They aren't the quietest things to drive. However, it's fun as hell for a little 120 HP pocket rocket. the 05's are supposed to have different interiors, but that's kind of a pity, I like the originals they remind me of the Ford taxicabs I used to ride in in the UK.

We've have on technical problem with ours, the steering wheel ignition lock broke and caused us two weeks of anger. It's an expensive fix if out of warranty.

[devilgrrl]

6. I test drove a focus wagon this evening...

it drove well but I wasn't too impressed with the pick-up, then again it was an automatic. I've been told that there were a few problems with earlier models of the focus but the '05's have gotten good reviews.

That's my second test drive this week, so far the Mazda 3 is in the lead. Tomorrow it's the Matrix. :-)

[BigMcLargehuge]

7. we have a five speed sedan

so it's probably comperable to the five speed wagon power to weight ratio wise.

I wonder if the Mazda 3 isn't a Focus in disguise. The Protoge and Protege shared the same powertrains and suspension.

[devilgrrl]

8. Mazda 3, Focus, Matrix and Vibe seem to be very much alike.

Mazda 3 is the new Protege.

I'm going to try them all but for now the Mazda 3 is winning hands down.

[BigMcLargehuge]

9. right, but what I mean is

the matrix and vibe are the exact same car, and I think the Mazda 3 and Focus wagon are the exact same car, other than sheetmetal and interior trim.

Glad you dig the 3 :) They are sweet looking little rides.

[devilgrrl]

10. Ahhh, got it...

:dunce:

[devilgrrl]

3. kick

:kick: