Toyota Matrix E130 1.8i 16V (183 Hp)


Overall Rating

8.2 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 4.0 / 5
Value 4.2 / 5
Performance 3.5 / 5
Comfort 3.8 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Toyota Matrix:

The Toyota Matrix, officially named Toyota Corolla Matrix, is a compact hatchback manufactured by Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada in Cambridge, Ontario and derived from the Corolla. Introduced in 2002 as a 2003 model, the Matrix was the result of a joint venture between Toyota and General Motors, with the GM version being the Pontiac Vibe, which was assembled by New United Motor Manufacturing, Inc. in Fremont, California, United States.
The Matrix was positioned as a sporty hatchback counterpart of the North American Corolla and was counted as a variant of it in Toyota's sales figures....(Read more on Wikipedia)

E130 Overview:

Toyota Matrix (E130). With 176 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~12 l/100km). Weighing only 1270 kg, it’s quite light. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. The top speed reaches 220 km/h. A compact car with a rear door that swings upward to provide access to the cargo area. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

Safety Rating
Not rated
Euro NCAP Year N/A
Adult Occupant N/A
Stars N/A
Expert Note:
The Toyota Matrix E130 was primarily marketed in North America and was not directly tested by Euro NCAP. However, its platform-mate, the Toyota Corolla (E120), generally performed adequately in safety tests of its era, suggesting a reasonable, though not class-leading, level of protection.

1.8i 16V (183 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 5 stars

Performance Verdict

Featuring the high-revving 2ZZ-GE engine, this trim delivers spirited performance, especially when pushed into its 'lift' cam profile, offering a genuinely sporty driving experience for a compact.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is respectable for its power output, though it will decrease significantly under spirited driving conditions due to its high-revving nature.

Best Use Case: Enthusiast driving / Spirited Highway

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Exceptional Toyota reliability and low maintenance costs.
  • • Versatile interior with ample cargo space and flat-folding seats.
  • • Available AWD for enhanced traction in various conditions.
  • • Sporty XRS model offers engaging performance.
  • • Good fuel economy on FWD 1ZZ-FE models.

Cons:

  • • Base models can feel underpowered for some drivers.
  • • Interior materials are durable but basic and lack refinement.
  • • Road noise can be noticeable at highway speeds.
  • • AWD models sacrifice some fuel efficiency and performance.
  • • Rear drum brakes on base models are less effective than discs.

Specifications:

General:
Brand:Toyota
Model:Matrix
Generation:E130
Modification (Engine):1.8i 16V (183 Hp)
Start of production:2002
End of production:2007
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Hatchback
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:183 Hp @ 7600 rpm.
Power per litre:101.9 Hp/l
Torque:176 Nm @ 6800 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:2ZZ-GE
Engine displacement:1796
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine oil capacity:4.4 l
Coolant:6.7 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:82 mm mm
Piston Stroke:85 mm mm
Compression ratio:11.5:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:12 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:7 l/100 km
Maximum speed:220 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:6.9 kg/Hp, 144.1 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:7.2 kg/Nm, 138.6 Nm/tonne
Space:
Kerb Weight:1270
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:1507 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:617 l
Fuel tank capacity:50 l
Size:
Length:4350 mm mm
Width:1775 mm mm
Height:1540 mm mm
Wheelbase:2600 mm mm
Front track:1515 mm
Rear (Back) track:1495 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):9.8 m
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears6
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs
Rear brakesDisc
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size205/55 R16
Front suspensionSpring Strut
Rear suspensionCoil spring

Is the Toyota Matrix the king of its class? Share your thoughts.