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Introduction

The Corolla-based 2010 Toyota Matrix hatchback reminds us that the folks at Toyota can still make a darned good small car when they put their minds to it. We've been underwhelmed by the latest Corolla, to put it mildly, but its Matrix cousin is a thoroughly competent effort. It's certainly no hot rod, but we're pretty sure most compact hatchback or wagon buyers care more about practicality than performance. And for them, the 2010 Matrix is one of the most compelling choices in this segment.
In many ways, the Matrix is like Corolla version 2.0. Its sheet metal is far more stylish, its 3 extra inches of height boost passenger space, and its convenient hatchback/wagon design means you can haul a lot of stuff. This cargo-carrying capacity is one of the Matrix's biggest draws -- with 61.5 cubic feet of space, this modestly sized Toyota can haul nearly as much as some compact SUVs. Yet its fuel economy with the base 1.8-liter engine is still quite good at 28 mpg combined. The Matrix costs a grand or two more than the Corolla, but its verve and versatility make it well worth the extra coin.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2010 Toyota Matrix is a compact hatchback available in three trim levels: base, S and XRS. All-wheel drive is optional on the midrange S. The base car features 16-inch steel wheels, power mirrors, air-conditioning, a CD stereo with an auxiliary audio jack, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and a fold-flat front passenger seat. Cruise control, keyless entry and power windows and locks are optional on this version of the Matrix but standard on the S, which also adds a rear window wiper, underbody spoilers, an upgraded stereo and a 115-volt utility outlet. The all-wheel-drive version of the S loses the spoilers, but it gains foglights and an independent rear suspension. The top-of-the-line Matrix XRS tacks on 18-inch alloy wheels, a rear roof spoiler, sport-tuned suspension and steering, upgraded seat fabric and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Powertrains and Performance

On the base front-wheel-drive Toyota Matrix, you'll find a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 132 horsepower and 128 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, and a four-speed automatic is optional. Matrix S and XRS models upgrade to a 2.4-liter engine that makes 158 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque, as well as an optional five-speed automatic alongside the standard five-speed manual. The AWD S comes only with the four-speed automatic.

Safety

The 2010 Toyota Matrix comes standard with stability control and antilock disc brakes, with the S and XRS boasting larger discs all around. Also standard are front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags.

Interior Design and Special Features

Inside, the Matrix has a significantly edgier ambience than the Corolla. If you think this compact sedan's interior lacks flair, the Matrix is the antidote. A telescoping steering wheel and ample seat-track travel allow drivers of all sizes to get comfortable, and the controls are both intuitive and attractive. In back, the tall, deep bench is inviting for children and adults alike, and it folds completely flat in 60/40 sections.

Driving Impressions

The base Matrix accelerates sluggishly off the line with its 1.8-liter engine, but its admirable fuel economy will redeem it in the eyes of many shoppers. The 2.4-liter engine in the S and XRS is the opposite -- power is ample, but fuel economy is just OK. The ride is smooth and well-insulated. The 2010 Toyota Matrix may not be the sportiest economy hatchback, but its refinement is laudable.
The Toyota Yaris  has now been with us since 2005 and despite its age it’s still regularly in the top three best selling light cars in the country (competing with Hyundai Getz and Mazda2). The next generation Yaris is due in 2012 but given that it’s sold in other markets as a Toyota Vitz, pictures of the new model have emerged from a brochure printed in Asia.
Toyota has just confirmed the launch its all-new Vitz subcompact car for the Japanese market, which will be also known as the Yaris for the U.S. and European markets later in the future. The 2012 Toyota Vitz will be released in Japan on December 22 of this year.
So far Toyota has not stated when the Yaris version will arrive at European and North American markets, but we expected to see it shows up in these markets around the second half of 2011.
The new 2012 Toyota Vitz is designed as subcompact car with fuel efficiency in mind. It is powered by a 1.3-liter gasoline engine, which features a start-stop system to provide a fuel return of 62.3 mpg U.S. and CO2 emissions of about 88g/km. Toyota claims that the Vitz will be the one of the most fuel-efficient cars in its segment in Japan.
Although still some time away, the new Toyota Yaris does look the business with its modernized and more aggressive design. We can’t help but notice it has taken some design cues from the Toyota Prius as well (such as the headlights).The sporty versions you see pictured here are called Toyota Vitz Modellista which are essentially a Yaris with a body kit.