2004 TOYOTA MATRIX NEW CAR BUYER'S GUIDE

What's New for the 2004 Toyota Matrix?
Minor changes are in store for the 2004 Toyota Matrix. Standard and XR trim levels can be equipped with a Power package including power windows, power door locks and remote keyless entry. Extra Value packages for the XR include spoilers front and rear, fog lights, cruise control, 16-inch alloy wheels and a power sunroof. Two new colors are also available: Phantom Gray and Super Yellow.

Advantages of the 2004 Toyota Matrix:

• Roomy and versatile interior
• Handling with the XRS model
• Available all-wheel-drive

Objections to the 2004 Toyota Matrix:

• Peaky power delivery with XRS model
• Overwhelmed engine when matched to all-wheel-drive
• Funky mix of Toyota and General Motors interior bits and pieces

Editor's Advice:
Co-developed with General Motors but using hardware primarily sourced from Toyota, the 2004 Matrix is a solid, functional, crossover vehicle that can serve many needs at once. Its primary downfall is its powertrain selection. Standard and XR models could use more power, especially when equipped with all-wheel-drive, while the sporty Matrix XRS must be revved hard to make its maximum 180 horsepower. We’d like to see a compromise between extremes under the hood, something with 160 horsepower and decent enough torque to launch the Matrix with spirit. As it stands, the 2004 Toyota Matrix XRS is an impressive handler, able to carve a canyon with surprising verve. Despite gripes associated with the engines, we highly recommend the 2004 Toyota Matrix if a crossover SUV-wagon thingamabob is what you're looking for. Don’t like the styling? The 2004 Pontiac Vibe is the same vehicle, with Toyota running gear for reliability.