I must agree on the shifter. It works extremely well where it is placed. It's only a handswidth away from the steering wheel. I must say I like the way it looks better in the Matrix than in the new civic si.
on another note, I find it interresting that the Vibe discussion was leading the numbers by a wide margin and now the Matrix has taken the lead.
Since our hopes have been dashed. "Silver! take it our leave it or come back next year attiutude of all the dealers we've met." I sit on the train peering into parking lots hoping to see a cosmic blue scanning the highway. is the color fractal?? Even though the car is for my wife im kinda excited about the car I hate anything other than a coupe or performance sedan (i.e M3, EVO, WRX). I hate my wife's rodeo and look forward to driving the matrix. I would really like the blue I have an electron blue 2001 prelude and i think that cosmic blue would compliment my car. the Indigo looks like an old fashion shirtjack color. I hate when manufacturers make limited editions in 20 grand cars i hate toyota already and this only adds to my dislike that i have to accept a color i dont want. Works been slow so I on here raving every day. only two thing relieve my stress racing and talking upp a storm so bear wid me or close your eyes. LOL...LMAO.... My daughter is six if we get two blue cars she'll just ask mommy's car or daddys car. Anyway shes mad we are both gonna have manuals as she'll no longer will get to warm up the car. which she loves to do.
United Auto Toyota in Westbury & Millennium toyota in Hempstead. United Auto in Westbury and its for sticker $22,205 plus mats & rear bumper so probably $22,468. the vehicle has DVD Navigation so no ones been willing to go down in price. My wife is impatient. I paid $3000 under sticker for my car. But my wife doesn't want to wait till next year so sticker is not bad. i have two orders (dealers holding). Which ever store gets it first is the store I buy from one said march 23 i looked around some more this guy said two weeks. Is it me or is every Toyota a Superstore??? they ripped other stores to shred and disclaim each other selling volume but I like Unite Auto seemed more honest and put me onto some things i was unsure about. They also found the car schedule for delivery at a sister store they already requested it so Im optimistic. whats scary is that they weren't sure oof the color. I hope Im not being taken for a ride.
Anyone have an idea for seat covers for a (BE)code option Matirx with side air bags. Also, are dealers installing moon/sun roofs on a local basis and charging for them after the cars arrive? My dealer said they had a few arrive with the moon/sun option that they did not know about and had to charge the buyer for the option.
Just saw a white XR parked next to a basic XR (also white) at my dealer. The basic XR, IMHO, really looked much more stylish than the busy looking XR. But the problem is, I can't get the power mirrors or seat height adjuster with the basic model. @#$%&?!
The dealer said all XR and XRS models come with the side skirts and a "sport" package! Even the Civic SI doesn't come with ground effects, Honda leaves it to the buyer to do such customization. Why is Toyota putting these ground effects on ALL XR and XRS models? This is crazy!
Does anyone know how much it would cost to remove the side skirts, assuming I can find one without the "sport" package?
Suggestion to Toyota: Include ALL the ground effects in a truly optional package, that the dealer could install. Consider making fog lamps standard on all models.
I used to work for Toyota Dealer Facilities, and the UAG store in Westbury is one of their best. They're in the process of doing a complete remodel (which I happened to help them with), and the new management is first-rate. I wouldn't have any worries about dealing with them (although you should always do your research and keep yourself focused on what you want and what you expect to pay for it).
I've just started considering a Matrix, so I'm new to this discussion. I have, however, read all of the posts. I have a few questions for you folks:
1) The Toyota "build your own" web page doesn't list air conditioning as standard or optional in the Mid-Atlantic region as far as I can see, but every dealer listing I see has A/C. Is it standard or what package does it come with?
2) Does the car use a Toyota or GM transmission? How about the rest of the driveline and mechanicals?
3) Is the Matrix made in a Toyota plant and the Vibe in a GM plant? If so, I wouldn't touch a Vibe, because IMHO, GM can't touch Toyota's quality control.
I'm also way outside the target group, since I'm a male over 60. We were going to buy an Odyssey as a sedan doesn't fit our needs, and I feel it is the best value in a minivan. Now that Toyota is making what seems to be a station wagon, I have a real choice. I also owned a Corolla wagon and it was a great car.
The Toyota web site lists the bumper protector at $58 MSRP. So now we know that SE Toyota is ripping people off by charging $98.
What is a bumper protector? Is it a rubber strip that covers the top of the rear bumper? If so, why not buy it and put it on yourself. There are several places that sell discountes OEM accessories for Hondas on the WEB. Anything like that for Toyota? Given the rip-offs being committed by Toyota dealers, there should be!
I wouldn't worry too much about the Vibe coming out of NUMMI - it uses the Toyota Manufacturing System, same as all other Toyota plants. Besides, ALL of the parts were Toyota sourced (GM drew up the looks of the interior (Matrix and Vibe) and exterior (Vibe only), but Toyota did the engineering).
I just read that of all the North American car assembly plants that the Cambridge Ont. plant had the fewest problems per car than any other plant....regardless of manufacturer. that spells good news for the Corolla and Matrix. Toyota's Georgetown Ky plant was tied for second with Honda's Marysville Ohio plant.
I received the following message after making an enquiry to Autobytel: "Your request has been assigned to the following Autobytel.com Accredited Dealer!!!!"
So, I do not get the benefit from having several dealers competing for my business eh?
Thanks for your positive feedback. I'll forward your messages onto our Owner's Club host, Karen. Btw, one of the things I mentioned in my previous message above was the idea of combining Corolla and Matrix owners together into one Owner's Club area.
We thought this might be a good idea for a couple reasons. For one, since the Matrix is built on the Corolla platform, we thought there might be enough similarities where you might benefit from sharing information with each other. Secondly, to get things started, we thought the combined participation of the two groups would help to increase overall club activity and enthusiasm.
One of the problems we've had with some of the individual clubs here is not enough participation to keep things active/enthusiastic. Therefore, we've found it beneficial to combine owners of similar models. In fact, some of our Owner's Clubs encompass the entire make (i.e. Subaru Crew), as opposed to separate models. Of course every situation is different depending upon the needs of the individual group.
Question: So I guess what we'd like know is if you also like the idea of combining Corolla and Matrix owners. Yes/no? Doesn't matter? Any other suggestions...? We aim to please. Appreciate the feedback, and thanks for your participation!
Given that the undercarriage is essentially the same, I, too, would try to make the group Corolla/Matrix/Vibe! Some of the Vibe folk might not take too kindly to that, but they will find out soon enough the Ponty is a Toy in disguise!
OK. I can understand the Corolla/Matrix club. And the Matrix/Vibe club. But Corolla/Matrix/Vibe? Corolla/Matrix/Vibe/Celica?
A bit much.
The most logical and useful pairing would be a Matrix/Vibe club.
One of the benefits of Edmunds is the specificity of its Town Hall topics and clubs. I.e, I'm not just part of a Toyota group, but of a Toyota Matrix group. It's hard enough to make it through all the posts now, let alone with two other cars in the mix.
But that's just my opinion. I could be incorrect. (I know what you thought I was going to say
This would NOT be a replacement for this group, as I understand it. It would instead be a club for OWNERS. Limited participation in the past has taught Edmunds to make certain the group has at least a certain size. As our gracious host mentioned earlier, for Subaru, the owners club is marque (brand name) wide: The Subaru Crew.
Why can't they do it like they do the VW owner's club? There, it says "VW Owner's Club" and different models under that banner. That would make the most sense. Then they could just link all the forums to that main page. Know what I mean?
Has anyone compared matrix insurance rates with other types of small wagons, hatchbacks, or small suv's? My insurance company has not yet updated its website to include any 2003 cars.
I test drove a XR Matrix and noticed that the gas pedal has a very small range of motion and has very soft springs. When I floored the pedal the car didn't accelerate very quickly. It was the only Matrix on the lot so I didn't get a chance to drive a different one.
I just got a quote from my insurance company and while I did not compare it to other similiar vehicles the quote is approx 24% higher than the same coverage for my current 1999 Corolla Touring Sedan. I am quoted for the XR 5spd 2wd. The agent told me the car has sophisticated anti-theft equipment (I don't think it does but not going to argue if it helps the price ;-) ) but it is offset by the fact the company has classed it as a mini-SUV. I think they should revisit this classification, it is really in fact a tall 2wd wagon/5 door sedan...it is not a true SUV. It does not affect me too much either way though as the increase is less than 200 per year and it would it will not stop me from buying the vehicle. Now if I was 18 years old with a poor driving record, I think the insurance would be very high for this vehicle.
This is in Canada so it could be different in the US...but I really feel they need to drop the SUV designation from the vehicle for this reason. Maybe insurance companies will start classing it as a CUV soon which could help the rates.
The Matrix is not an SUV (it's a fancy station wagon). The insurance for our 2003 XR 4WD will be $100.00 less a year than we were paying for the 1998 RAV ($729.00). Since it is new, the rate was based on the value of the vehicle (it has not been classified yet). Please keep in mind that many factors will determine in which bin it will be placed in.
I'm not sure where I saw it (could've been one of Toyota's own websites)but I'm sure the Matrix was classified as a "small wagon", not a small SUV. I'll see if I can dig up the info and report back.
Anyone in Canada might be interrested in the contest going on at: www.toyotamatrix.ca
Apparently they are going to give away 6 Matrixes to people for a month this summer to take pictures of and the person with the most interresting pictures/adventures with their Matrix gets to keep it.
As for the insurance....we're still waiting to hear from the insurance company what the rate will be. Maybe we should be calling it by whats on the owners manual....the Corolla Matrix. I told the insurance agent it was basically a hatchback version of the Corolla.
Actually Toyota calls the Matrix a CUV - Crossover Utility Vehicle and insurance companies do not know what to do with it. SUV's are more expensive to repair with elaborate 4 wheel drive systems and are more prone to accidents due to higher roll over rates. None of these apply to the 2wd drive Matrix. You must be right about the rate being based on value as I am moving up about 3000 based on retail values and you would going down slightly depending on the model of your RAV. I am going to get some more quotes, I have a lot of time yet before the Matrix arrives...thanks
Is anyone else have trouble getting a Matrix? I would like a red XRS, manual trans, with a sunroof and they are telling me there aren't any built yet at least not in red. Not sure if this is correct or not.
Not sure if I should compromise on what I want or ask for my deposit back. I live in the DC area.
Actually Toyota calls the Matrix a CUV - Crossover Utility Vehicle and insurance companies do not know what to do with it. SUV's are more expensive to repair with elaborate 4 wheel drive systems and are more prone to accidents due to higher roll over rates. None of these apply to the 2wd drive Matrix. You must be right about the rate being based on value as I am moving up about 3000 based on retail values and you would going down slightly depending on the model of your RAV. I am going to get some more quotes, I have a lot of time yet before the Matrix arrives...thanks
You will probably need to wait for the model you want (XRS-manual). In the Chicago region, there are only 15 of that build combo coming in each month. Each region does things differently, but from experience, be prepared to wait.
On the Toyota Canada web site the Matrix is grouped together with the cars. So, a CUV must be a car anyway.
It is most annoying that to get a Matrix with ABS, and power windows (in Canada) you must get a AWD XR for $28,500(taxes included). A Corolla LE with ABS and power windows costs $24,500.
To our American friends, a Canadian gallon (imperial) is bigger than a US gallon so our mpg quotes have bigger numbers - an automatic 03 Corolla gets 49mpg on the highway in Canada, but only 39mpg in the States. Its funny that we still get still get quoted mpg values since we buy gas by the liter and our odometers are in kilometers.
The color shouldn't be the issue. You need to wait until your dealer is allocated a Matrix XRS 6-speed. then, before the vehicle is built, they can go in and change the color, options, etc. I have my deposit in as well, just need to wait until my dealer gets allocation of a 6-speed (he has an automatic XRS allocated to him, but I want the stick)
Hey folks, I proudly joined the crowd. Yes!! I got the lunar(grey) XRS, 6 speed with almost every option but Navigation and sun roof. I've had my Matrix for a week. Folks you gotta believe me that thing rocks. A lot of power for a 4 cylinder car. I've been getting a lot of compliments, most people wanna know what it is. I came from a 98 mazda millenia which was a great car. But this one is sportier and handles better. I really can't say much about it I simply love it. The more I drive it the more I like it. Nice job Toyota!!!
The best guess is that the base auto transmission can't or isn't geared to handle the power band of the 180 hp engine.
Either that or since it's target market is enthusiasts, there's no real need to manufacure an XRS automatic.
Automakers often delay -- and sometimes cancel -- the release of certain combinations.
Saturn's VUE won't have a CVT available for a few months. In 1998 and 1999, Dodge's literature mentioned a six-cylinder powerplant available for the Durango. It never produced any and eventually canceled that package.
GM/Pontiac has said from day one that at GM there will be no automatic with the 180hp engine. Pontiac's story is that the engine produces power so high up in the rev bands that the current auto tranny is unsuitable. Say what you will about GM, but they are the world leader in transmissions, and if they say it is unsuitable, I would imagine that either a new tranny is being developed or the combination is not going to be offered. Just my speculations!
Good point on the gas mileage in the size difference between the US and Imperial gallons...I knew that but it did not dawn on me at all. This helps explain why I was seeing fuel mileage quotes of 35 - 51 highway.
In terms of the XRS with Automatic, In Canada we can order but the dealer I am talking to is discouraging all orders because as said before, the transmission shift points do not allow the engine to reach peak effeciency. I don't see any reason why you cannot get the XRS automatic and shift it manually at redline...I do that all the time on my wifes automatic (grin).
Just a thought but you folks in the states should be crossing the border to buy your cars, I know the retails are a bit higher but with 63 cents on the dollar, you can save a good bit of money.
Hi Folks- You'll now find a direct link to Edmunds' 2003 Toyota Matrix New Vehicle Pricing information, in the Helpful Links, on the left side of this page.
Also, check our Edmunds' new Consumer Reviews & Ratings section where owners can submit their own reviews. This functionality lives in the "consumer opinions" area of the new vehicle detail page and allows users to rate a vehicle on a number of different criteria (1 to 10 scale), as well as add his/her own free-form comments.
OK folks, from what I have read, the reason that Pontiac didn't go with an automatic GT Vibe was due to the fact that they only have 55,000 vehicles for the yr (compared to 70,000 Matrixes) with very few being GT variants. Due to that they opted to keep all GT's 6 speeds. It is true about the performance issue though...Automatics don't take advantage of the power band on this engine.
On another note, check out the new Edmunds review:
Suggest you try Carmax Laurel Toyota. I just got one there yesterday (full report coming), and they seem to be getting lots. I think he said they got 9 in their last shipment. After I left yesterday, he was down to 3.
See my next post for more info on what I bought and the buying experience.
My dealer that I ordered my XRS from is getting an XRS auto any day now, and Carmax in Laurel, MD said they had two autos on the lot when I called them last week. So they do exist.
Comments
on another note, I find it interresting that the Vibe discussion was leading the numbers by a wide margin and now the Matrix has taken the lead.
My daughter is six if we get two blue cars she'll just ask mommy's car or daddys car. Anyway shes mad we are both gonna have manuals as she'll no longer will get to warm up the car. which she loves to do.
The dealer said all XR and XRS models come with the side skirts and a "sport" package! Even the Civic SI doesn't come with ground effects, Honda leaves it to the buyer to do such customization. Why is Toyota putting these ground effects on ALL XR and XRS models? This is crazy!
Does anyone know how much it would cost to remove the side skirts, assuming I can find one without the "sport" package?
Suggestion to Toyota: Include ALL the ground effects in a truly optional package, that the dealer could install. Consider making fog lamps standard on all models.
1) The Toyota "build your own" web page doesn't list air conditioning as standard or optional in the Mid-Atlantic region as far as I can see, but every dealer listing I see has A/C. Is it standard or what package does it come with?
2) Does the car use a Toyota or GM transmission? How about the rest of the driveline and mechanicals?
3) Is the Matrix made in a Toyota plant and the Vibe in a GM plant? If so, I wouldn't touch a Vibe, because IMHO, GM can't touch Toyota's quality control.
I'm also way outside the target group, since I'm a male over 60. We were going to buy an Odyssey as a sedan doesn't fit our needs, and I feel it is the best value in a minivan. Now that Toyota is making what seems to be a station wagon, I have a real choice. I also owned a Corolla wagon and it was a great car.
1. Air Conditioning w/air filter is standard on the Matrix, even the base model.
2. The engine and transmission are from Toyota. It's the same as used in the Corolla and Celica. (The Matrix is based on the Corolla)
3. Matrix is made in Canada at a Toyota Plant. The Vibe is made at the joint GM/Toyota NUMMI facility in California.
I just wish I weren't upside down on my current loan so I could buy a Matrix. Oh well, I'm sure it will be worth the wait.
What is a bumper protector? Is it a rubber strip that covers the top of the rear bumper? If so, why not buy it and put it on yourself. There are several places that sell discountes OEM accessories for Hondas on the WEB. Anything like that for Toyota? Given the rip-offs being committed by Toyota dealers, there should be!
I'd trust the Vibe for quality.
So, I do not get the benefit from having several dealers competing for my business eh?
We thought this might be a good idea for a couple reasons. For one, since the Matrix is built on the Corolla platform, we thought there might be enough similarities where you might benefit from sharing information with each other. Secondly, to get things started, we thought the combined participation of the two groups would help to increase overall club activity and enthusiasm.
One of the problems we've had with some of the individual clubs here is not enough participation to keep things active/enthusiastic. Therefore, we've found it beneficial to combine owners of similar models. In fact, some of our Owner's Clubs encompass the entire make (i.e. Subaru Crew), as opposed to separate models. Of course every situation is different depending upon the needs of the individual group.
Question: So I guess what we'd like know is if you also like the idea of combining Corolla and Matrix owners. Yes/no? Doesn't matter? Any other suggestions...? We aim to please. Appreciate the feedback, and thanks for your participation!
Revka
Host
Hatchbacks & Station Wagons
http://www.suntimes.com/output/auto/car-news-car03.html
A bit much.
The most logical and useful pairing would be a Matrix/Vibe club.
One of the benefits of Edmunds is the specificity of its Town Hall topics and clubs. I.e, I'm not just part of a Toyota group, but of a Toyota Matrix group. It's hard enough to make it through all the posts now, let alone with two other cars in the mix.
But that's just my opinion. I could be incorrect. (I know what you thought I was going to say
Just trying to help!
My Matrix XR had the following options:
- Anti-Lock Brake System
- 17" Aluminum Wheels
- All Weather Guard Package
- Cruise Control
- Premium Am/Fm w/6 Disc In-Dash
- Sport Plus Package
MSRP: $19,155
I paid: $18,655
I got to wait 3 weeks for it...but it'll be worth it. Happy Motoring....see you guys on the road!!!
I just got a quote from my insurance company and while I did not compare it to other similiar vehicles the quote is approx 24% higher than the same coverage for my current 1999 Corolla Touring Sedan. I am quoted for the XR 5spd 2wd. The agent told me the car has sophisticated anti-theft equipment (I don't think it does but not going to argue if it helps the price ;-) ) but it is offset by the fact the company has classed it as a mini-SUV. I think they should revisit this classification, it is really in fact a tall 2wd wagon/5 door sedan...it is not a true SUV. It does not affect me too much either way though as the increase is less than 200 per year and it would it will not stop me from buying the vehicle. Now if I was 18 years old with a poor driving record, I think the insurance would be very high for this vehicle.
This is in Canada so it could be different in the US...but I really feel they need to drop the SUV designation from the vehicle for this reason. Maybe insurance companies will start classing it as a CUV soon which could help the rates.
I'll see if I can dig up the info and report back.
www.toyotamatrix.ca
Apparently they are going to give away 6 Matrixes to people for a month this summer to take pictures of and the person with the most interresting pictures/adventures with their Matrix gets to keep it.
As for the insurance....we're still waiting to hear from the insurance company what the rate will be. Maybe we should be calling it by whats on the owners manual....the Corolla Matrix. I told the insurance agent it was basically a hatchback version of the Corolla.
Not sure if I should compromise on what I want or ask for my deposit back. I live in the DC area.
It is most annoying that to get a Matrix with ABS, and power windows (in Canada) you must get a AWD XR for $28,500(taxes included). A Corolla LE with ABS and power windows costs $24,500.
To our American friends, a Canadian gallon (imperial) is bigger than a US gallon so our mpg quotes have bigger numbers - an automatic 03 Corolla gets 49mpg on the highway in Canada, but only 39mpg in the States. Its funny that we still get still get quoted mpg values since we buy gas by the liter and our odometers are in kilometers.
I've tried almost all the dealers in the Dallas/Irving area and they all told me that Toyota isn't making that combo until July.
Has anyone recently got the XRS with automatic, or know any different?
My 2 cent...
I'll be sharing my experience with you all.
Either that or since it's target market is enthusiasts, there's no real need to manufacure an XRS automatic.
Automakers often delay -- and sometimes cancel -- the release of certain combinations.
Saturn's VUE won't have a CVT available for a few months. In 1998 and 1999, Dodge's literature mentioned a six-cylinder powerplant available for the Durango. It never produced any and eventually canceled that package.
Prolly more than anyone wanted to know...
In terms of the XRS with Automatic, In Canada we can order but the dealer I am talking to is discouraging all orders because as said before, the transmission shift points do not allow the engine to reach peak effeciency. I don't see any reason why you cannot get the XRS automatic and shift it manually at redline...I do that all the time on my wifes automatic (grin).
Just a thought but you folks in the states should be crossing the border to buy your cars, I know the retails are a bit higher but with 63 cents on the dollar, you can save a good bit of money.
Also, check our Edmunds' new Consumer Reviews & Ratings section where owners can submit their own reviews. This functionality lives in the "consumer opinions" area of the new vehicle detail page and allows users to rate a vehicle on a number of different criteria (1 to 10 scale), as well as add his/her own free-form comments.
We look forward to your participation. Thanks!
Revka
Host
Hatchbacks & Station Wagons Boards
On another note, check out the new Edmunds review:
http://www.edmunds.com/reviews/roadtests/firstdrive/49772/article.html
there you will see them mention that the automatic used in the AWD and XRS are different than those used with the 130hp engines.
Very good review BTW.
See my next post for more info on what I bought and the buying experience.
In Maryland, the Matrix is classified as a wagon for tag purposes. Not a multi-purpose vehicle or a truck.
Makes sense to me and I don't have to get new tags.