The Matrix is designed to spice up the Corolla line. Hey, vanilla’s technically a spice, right?
Why it Matters
Some call them five-door hatchbacks, others small wagons, and still others crossovers. Whatever label you choose to describe the likes of the 2009 Toyota Matrix, plan on using it more often. It’s a growing segment that plays host to versions of the Subaru Impreza, Kia Spectra5 and Rondo, Mazda3, and starting next year, the Hyundai Elantra Touring. Competition is getting stiffer for the Matrix, making it a prudent move for Toyota to do some updating, ultimately providing you, the car buyer, with a more desirable and overall improved product.