2010 Toyota Matrix
The Matrix is Toyota’s stylish four-door compact wagon, a vehicle designed to drive like a car with the hauling capability of an SUV. Known for its fuel efficiency, practicality, and newly added standard safety features, the Toyota Matrix has consistently been a reliable choice.
The 2010 Matrix is available in three trim levels with two available engines. The three trim levels that offer front-wheel drive include Base, S, and XRS, while the S trim level is also offered as all-wheel drive. The Base trim uses a fuel friendly 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine and produces 132 horsepower resulting in 25 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. The S and XRS are equipped with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 158 horsepower which achieves 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. The transmissions available include five-speed manual, four-speed automatic, and a five-speed automatic with a manual shift control.
The 2010 Matrix received five out of five stars from the national Highway Traffic Safety Administration in front impact crashes and for driver’s protection in side impact crashes. Performing well in federal government crash tests, the Matrix is praised for its long list of safety equipment offered standard. The most notable new addition is standard stability control. Other standard features include front, front seat-mounted side, and front and rear side curtain airbags. Anti-lock Brake System, Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control with off switch, and front active head restraints are additional safety features also present in all Matrixes.
The interior comes furnished with a multitude of standard amenities: telescopic adjustable steering wheel, four-way adjustable seats, 60/40 split fold-down rear bench seat, driver’s seat vehicle height adjuster, heavy duty rear window defogger with timer, auxiliary audio jack, and air conditioning. Standard exterior features include multi-reflector halogen headlamps and power outside mirrors. The Base and S come equipped with 16-inch steel wheels with full wheel covers and the XRS is equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels.
The XRS provides cruise control as a standard feature, but is available as a standalone option for the Base and S. Stand alone options for the S and XRS include power tilt/slide moonroof with sunshade and touch screen DVD navigation system with CD/MP3 and satellite radio capability.
Additional option packages are available. The Power Package gives the Base power windows, power door locks, and remote keyless entry. The All Weather Guard Package includes intermittent washer-linked rear window wiper for the Base, and heated foldable power sideview mirrors and rear-seat heater ducts for the Base, S and XRS. The Sports Package gives the S model front and rear underbody spoilers, while the Base also receives and integrated front fog lamps.
The Matrix offers a fresh and appealing exterior that stands out on the road. The sporty hatchback’s new design includes new sharp angles featured in the 2010 model which give the Matrix its distinctive and unique look.
With an abundance of features included standard, impressive fuel economy, and an aesthetic design to provide purpose and functionality, the 2010 Toyota Matrix stands out in its class.
