STRENGTHS:
Versatile cargo-carrying ability; standard safety features; 30+ mpg on the highway
VALUE:
Despite the slight price increase for the 2010 model year, the Matrix still comes in on the more inexpensive end of the crossover or sport wagon segment. The base model, with a 1.8-liter engine and 5-speed manual transmission, starts at $16,550, while the XRS with a 2.4-liter engine and 5-speed manual transmission starts at $21,960. VSC and TRAC are standard even on the base model -- which achieves 26 mpg city/32 mpg highway with the manual transmission.
WHAT'S NEW:
The biggest change for the 2010 Toyota Matrix is the addition of Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC) as standard equipment on all trim levels. The price of the 2010 Matrix has increased by about $200. After a major overhaul for 2009, the Matrix enters the 2010 model year with few changes. There are still 3 variants, including the base, the all-wheel drive S, and the sporty XRS.