2009 Toyota Matrix Pictures

2009 Toyota Matrix

2009 Toyota Matrix

2009 Toyota Matrix Pictures

Matrix fans will be pleased to hear that the AWD version and the performance-oriented XRS, dumped for 2007, are back. Other models are the Standard and the S. There is, incidentally, a 2008 Matrix, but production ended in December 2007.

The base engine remains a 1.8-liter four-cylinder that now has variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust. Horsepower is 132, up six from ’08. For the first time, a bigger engine is offered—the 158-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder from the Scion xB, although it still has six fewer horses than the last XRS. All but the AWD get a five-speed manual. A four-speed automatic is offered on the Standard; the mid-level S and the XRS get five-speeds, although the S all-wheel-drive model only gets a four-speed. As before, the all-wheel-drive Matrix S is not remotely a sport model, so don’t get your hopes up.

The ’09 Matrix has the same 102.4-inch wheelbase as the ’08 model, but the length has increased a bit, and the senior senator from Idaho may appreciate the slightly wider stance of the ’09. The modest growth and the usual stiffening add up to a weight gain of about 200 pounds.