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Toyota Matrix.... Pre purchase research
Ok, so here's the deal. We think that the Matrix may be the best vehicle for us (from a fuel economy standpoint); we know that the Pontiac Vibe is the same thing. Assuming we want a USED vehicle with similar characteristics (fuel economy and reliability primarily); what OTHER vehicles should we consider? We are looking for something post 2000 model year, that is 2WD, and has an Automatic Tranny, beyond that we also want something that is low mileage.
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'17 Chevy Volt Premiere
Also, when I go shopping; I would like to take a copy of the Kelley Blue Book with me, but I may not be able to get my hands on a current copy at the library (generally current issues are kept on hand as non circulation reference). Say I get a copy that is dated 2005; is there a general rule of thumb that I can deduct x percentage for each year the book is out of date? Say it gives a value of $10,000 for a given vehicle, but the book is dated for 2005 and not 2007; can I reasonably deduct 5% for each year it is out of date (taking a total of 10% or $1000 off the listed value)
In my case, since I don't have ready access to the internet when I'm outside, I will research the few vehicles I want to shop and kbb print out several examples for each. I will also avoid buying right this minute. Most deals will wait until I get home, get a chance to validate it, and maybe then call back for a final haggle. I feel more in control of the outcome that way.
'17 Chevy Volt Premiere
I am thinking that the Ford Focus would also be in the group of models competitive to the matrix. What other models fit that category that have model years between 2000 and 2005? I am not necessarily closed to anything but the Toyota; my main focus is economy primarily, followed closely by reliability and design.
I've been driving a '97 Escort LX Wagon 5-spd Manual for 10 years, now nearing 150k miles, and it is the direct ancestor of the Focus hatch and wagon models. NO major repairs, except the predictable timing belt and water pump replacement at 120k ($6-700), a couple of emission system sensors recently ($3-400), and too frequent brake service because too much heat builds up on the standard front rotors, causing warping that needs to be trued out. That's not bad and I didn't need the extended warranty I had on the car.
If I didn't need to stay with the narrower width of the Focus (sim to Fit and Versa), I would consider the Vibe/Matrix strong values at just slightly higher cost. They are 3" wider and would use up a little more of the tight clearance in our small garage than my wife will be comfortable with.
I got the bike, the extended warranty, the priority maintenance agreement, the taxes and tags paid, the cover, a matching set of helmets with headsets included and still paid over 1000 less than factory invoice on a bike that only had 5 miles on it. I sold it a couple of years later for more than I paid for it with 40,000.
I am simply trying to get similar results with a car, but I am also trying to save time.
It seems to me that the customer service standards at a car dealer are different from what you would find at a motorcycle dealer; and it's sad.
I need advice. After reading the forums, I am a little discouraged about what I have complaints regarding the Matrix transmission. I noticed the complaints were mainly the 03' and 04' models; are the later model tranny's better? I don't know if I should buy an automatic or manual transmission? I fear the automatic 1.8L is a slug, is this true? I don't even know if I should continue to look for a Matrix? Is the Corolla a better car? I am loyal to Toyota. My current car is a 1990 Toyota Camry....can I get this long of a life out of a Matrix?
Thank you.
Interestingly, sitting in a 10th generation Corolla was just fine, plenty of room, like being home. I think the shape of the dash is just different enough to make a difference. So I share this in case you think Matrix and Corolla are identical, I find this is not true! I can't speak to the earlier versions, though, just the '09s, which are old enough now to be reasonable on the used market.
Happy shopping!
Test the 1.8 for yourself to see if it's fast enough for you. Brand loyalty is really not necessary this day and age, buy what you need instead. If you are considering a Corolla rather than a Matrix, for example, then it sounds like you haven't decided if you need a car that can carry things besides people or not. Determine what you need FIRST. Also, if you looking at a car with a CVT, like a Nissan Versa or Rogue, a Prius, a Jeep Compass, or a Dodge Caliber, bear in mind that you will have to change slightly the way your foot talks to the car to make it go, as the traditional way of stomping on the accelerator doesn't yield the same results! Also for the last 10 years or so since fuel-injected cars were the norm, you must never pump the accelerator to start them or you create expensive problems for yourself and for the car's next owner. Simply bump the key, let it idle for 5 minutes, and go.
Anyway, hope my two cents is helpful...
Umm, except in subzero weather, 15 seconds ought to do it....
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)