Review of the 2006 Toyota Matrix - 2007 Toyota Matrix:

The Toyota Matrix is a newer model offered by Toyota that is selling well with it's non-traditional look and feel. The 2006 Toyota Matrix has 5 doors, lots of cargo space, and is available with full-time 4WD. The Matrix starts at $15260 for the base model and goes up accordingly for the XR and XRS ($19250). Standard interior features on all 3 models include 60/40 split fold down rear bench seat, cup holders, tilt steering wheel, illuminated entry, cargo nets, and tonneau cover. Toyota does not skimp on safety features and the Toyota Matrix comes with 3-point seatbelts, side-impact door beams, engine immobilizer, and child-protector rear door locks. We like the Toyota Matrix for it's versatility and performance when it comes to mileage. With a solid 30/36 (city/highway), the Matrix XR is our favorite of the 3 with its 1.8 liter DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine which can deliver 126 HP. The 5-speed manual transmission is standard, yet sporty. The 4-speed automatic is standard with 4WD.

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The 2006 Toyota Matrix XR 4dr Wagon has direct competition from the Pontiac Vibe, Suzuki Aerio, and Mazda3. They are all very similar in appearance, with the Aerio coming in at the cheapest ($15199). The Mazda3 is the most expensive at over $17,000, yet the Toyota Matrix has more luggage capacity, gets better mileage, and better crash test results for driver and passenger. The Mazda3 and Suzuki Aerio have more powerful engines (2.3 liters) and more horsepower, but for overall features and reliability, we feel (and so does Consumer Reports) that the 2006 Toyota Matrix is the best of its class. You can find more details and information on the Matix (and any other Toyota car) at Toyota.com. We also highly recommend using the Edmonds.com website for side by side comparisons between the Toyota Matrix and all it's competitors. The 2007 Toyota Matrix should only distance itself even further from the field and we look forward to what new and exciting features it will offer.

Used Toyota Matrix:

The Toyota Matrix doesn't have a long history, but certainly the Toyota brand name should alleviate any worries that buying a used Matrix will be a wise monetary decision. Over the brief sapn that Toyota has produced the Matrix, customer satisfaction is very high with very few issues to speak of. The Pontiac Vibe is the closest competitor in terms of price and features so consider looking into that car as an alternative. Listed below are some STRENGTHS of the Toyota Matrix.

• Good fuel economy
• Reliable - low maintenance costs
• Sporty, stylish look
• Roomy interior - Cargo Room
• Rear hatch window opens separately

Listed below are some WEAKNESSES of the Toyota Matrix.

• No leather seats
• Interior looks a bit cheap, plastic trim around the stereo is easy to scratch
• The engine is a bit noisy

Toyota offers a certified pre owned section on their website which details their used car market. You can also research used Toyota Matrixs' online at Automart.com or Edmunds.com.

Toyota Matrix Parts - Accessory:

The Toyota Matrix was first introduced in late 2002, so parts are fairly easy to acquire since the cars are only a few years old. That being said, most owners of a Toyota Matrix shouldn't even have to consider buying worn out parts until the car is about 5-10 years old. Used car parts can be found quite easily online at sites like PartsTrain.com, 1aauto.com and Carjunky.com. You'll have to know your exact make, year and model, but all sites offer easy to select menus with tons of parts for most cars and years. Toyota offers a nice section of their website for accessory items for all their cars. Accessories for the 2006 Toyota Matrix include front end mask, premium license plate frames, mudguards, rear bumper protector, sunroof wind deflector, wheel locks, cargo mat, pet screen, sport pedals, and all weather mats. Check them out at Toyota.com.

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