Toyota Corolla Matrix Gains Freshened Styling And
New Dynamic Handling Option For 2005
The Toyota Corolla Matrix, a crossover utility vehicle (CÚV) first introduced as a 2003 model, receives freshened styling and dynamic handling upgrades for 2005. Matrix uniquely combines the style and fun of a sports coupe with the room and utility of a small SÚV for the price of a compact sedan. (concept carz)
For 2005, the Matrix front bumper, grill, fog lights and rear light lenses have been redesigned to convey a higher-quality and sportier image.
'Matrix has been instrumental in attracting a new generation of buyers to the Toyota brand,' said Don Esmond, Toyota Division senior vice president and general manager. 'Many of these customers grew up with import brands. For them, Matrix makes an attractive starting point for a customized vehicle.'
Customers can choose from three model grades - Standard, XR with enhanced content and the unique XRS that injects a big dose of high performance with its 170-horsepower engine. All Matrix models provide exemplary fuel efficiency, with EPA city/highway estimated mileage ratings as high as 30/36 mpg in the standard and XR models with the five-speed manual transmission.
(posted on conceptcarz.com) New for 2005, the Matrix Standard and XR grade models offer an optional Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system when equipped with the optional automatic transmission.
(posted on conceptcarz.com) The VSC system helps maintain directional stability during cornering by manipulating engine torque and individual wheel-braking influence when it detects tire slippage.
The VSC option includes a traction control function that helps reduce tire slippage during acceleration. Brake Assist, also included, is designed to determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking and, if the driver has not stepped firmly enough on the brake pedal to engage the anti-lock brake system (ABS), Brake Assist supplements the applied braking power until pedal pressure is released.
Both the Standard Matrix and the Matrix XR come in front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive (4WD) configurations. The 4WD drive system adds all-weather versatility, using a viscous coupling to send power to the rear wheels in response to slippage at the front wheels. The XRS is front-drive only.
All Matrix models for 2005 gain a tire pressure monitoring system with a dashboard monitor light. In addition, all models also feature a new anti-theft engine immobilizer and new spray-type windshield washers.
The power door lock system, standard in all Matrix grades, has been enhanced for 2005 with a shift-linked system in models with the automatic transmission.
(posted on conceptcarz.com) The shift-linked system locks the doors automatically when the shift handle is placed into 'Drive' and the car is driven a short distance. The system unlocks the doors when the shifter is placed in 'Park' and the ignition is switched off.
Designed for A New Generation
Toyota designed the Matrix at Calty Design Research, its design studio in Newport Beach, Calif. Designers call the theme 'street performance utility.' Únique 'edge-web' detailing blends sharply creased surfaces with rounded web-like contours to create strong, flowing character lines. The three-window side profile gives the Matrix driver excellent outward visibility. The interior is as sporty as the exterior, with optitron gauges set in cylindrical, chrome-rimmed instrument housings.
A front spoiler with integrated fog lamps, rear underbody spoiler, side rocker panels, and 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels give the XRS an even bolder street performance look to go with its high-power muscle.
Versatility and Room Without Bulk
The Matrix provides ample room for five passengers, and its high seating points provide easy access and a command view of the road. The XR and XRS grades add a driver's seat height adjustment. The rear seat provides a generous 36.3 inches of legroom, on par with many midsize cars.
Matrix provides 21.8 cubic feet of cargo room behind the rear seat, which expands to a maximum of 53.2 cubic feet with the standard 60/40 split rear seatbacks folded down. The high roofline of the Matrix makes it easy to carry bulky items, such as outdoor gear. The load floor is perfectly flat and has a durable, washable surface. Tie-down hooks and two cargo nets are standard equipment, and customers can outfit the Matrix with available accessories, including a cargo mat, and even a pet screen. Toyota dealers offer an accessory roof rack and rear bumper step cover.
The front passenger seatback folds down, to either serve as a table for other passengers or enable the Matrix to carry long objects. Adding to the versatility, the rear glass hatch can open separately using a dash-mounted release or, on models so equipped, the keyless entry remote control.
Sporty Performance
The standard Matrix and Matrix XR are powered by a dual overhead-cam (DOHC) 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 130 horsepower at 6,000 RPM and 125 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,200 RPM. Four-wheel-drive (4WD) models powered by the 1.8-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine produce 123 horsepower at 6,000 RPM and 118 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,200 RPM. Toyota's advanced Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) optimizes power delivery throughout the engine speed range.
The engine produces at least 90-percent of its peak torque from just 2,000 RPM to the 6,000 RPM redline, giving the Matrix especially good low- and mid-range response.
The Matrix XRS provides a high-performance driving experience. Its 1.8-liter, four-cylinder DOHC engine comes from the Celica GT-S, along with that model's six-speed manual transmission.
(posted on conceptcarz.com) The engine produces 170 horsepower at 7,600 RPM and 127 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,400 RPM. The Variable Valve Timing with intelligence system adds an 'L' for 'Lift' (VVTL-i), an enhancement that boosts power by increasing the intake/exhaust valve lift from 6,000 RPM to the redline at 7,800 RPM. Drivers who prefer high-rpm horsepower will enjoy this engine's rush of top-end power.
Sport-tuned suspension, four-wheel disc brakes and available 215/50R-17 tires support the high-performance potential of the Matrix XRS.
The Matrix XRS comes standard with an anti-lock brake system (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), which can be added to the other models as an option. Both XR and XRS grades offer 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels. The standard Matrix rolls on 205/55R-16 tires.
A four-speed electronic automatic transmission is available on the standard and XR models and equipped on all 4WD drive models.
Toyota Value and Peace of Mind
Cutting edge in form and style, Matrix is also aimed at keeping with the Toyota tradition of value and low cost of ownership. Younger buyers especially will appreciate the generous standard equipment that includes air conditioning with air filter, an AM/FM/CD sound system with four speakers, power mirrors, tilt steering wheel, intermittent wipers, a tachometer and a digital clock. The Matrix features a standard digital outside temperature gauge, a feature commonly seen on more expensive vehicles.
The XR grade adds power windows and door locks, a sport steering wheel, remote keyless entry, height-adjustable driver's seat, variable intermittent wipers and a rear wiper.
The XRS grade features cruise control. Customers don't need to step up to a higher grade to get more features. The Standard model can be optionally equipped with many features from the XR grade, individually or in packages.
Safety technology in the Matrix includes multi-stage deployment front airbags, pretensioners and force limiters for the front seatbelts and side-impact door beams. Front seat side airbags are optionally available for all model grades. The rear seat is equipped with three top-tether child restraint system attachment points and the Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) uniform child restraint anchorage system.
Toyota's 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle limited warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60 months/60,000 miles and corrosion perforation for 60 months with no mileage limitation.
Source - Toyota
