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Toyota Matrix

Toyota

Toyota Matrix: The Corolla-based hatch-wagon. Practical, with the sporty XRS sharing the Celica 2ZZ engine.
Photo: Chris / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0

The Corolla-based hatch-wagon. Practical, with the sporty XRS sharing the Celica 2ZZ engine.

The Toyota Matrix is a compact hatch-wagon based on the Corolla, developed jointly with the Pontiac Vibe. It offered practical hatchback versatility, available all-wheel drive, and Toyota reliability, serving as a flexible, affordable everyday vehicle. For enthusiasts, the early Matrix XRS is the highlight, sharing the high-revving 2ZZ-GE engine with the Celica GT-S and Corolla XRS. The Matrix blended Corolla dependability with added cargo flexibility and a touch of sportiness in the XRS. On WhipJury, Matrix submissions favor the 2ZZ-powered XRS.

Matrix highlights

Corolla-based hatch-wagon. Practical, with available all-wheel drive.

XRS. The high-revving 2ZZ-GE engine, shared with the Celica GT-S.

Matrix on WhipJury

The 2ZZ-powered XRS is the enthusiast pick.

Frequently asked questions about Toyota Matrix

Is the Matrix based on the Corolla?
Yes, the Matrix is a Corolla-based hatch-wagon, developed jointly with the Pontiac Vibe, offering more cargo flexibility than the Corolla sedan.
What is the Matrix XRS?
The sporty Matrix, which in early cars used the high-revving 2ZZ-GE engine shared with the Celica GT-S and Corolla XRS.
Is the Matrix reliable?
Yes, sharing Corolla mechanicals and Toyota durability. The 2ZZ XRS requires diligent oil maintenance.
Does the Matrix have all-wheel drive?
Yes, all-wheel drive was available on some Matrix models, adding versatility.
Is the Matrix the same as the Pontiac Vibe?
They are closely related, developed jointly and sharing platform and engines. The Vibe is the Pontiac-badged version of the Matrix.

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