Jalopnik: matrix

JD Power: Hyundai Genesis Highest-Ranked Newly-Launched Vehicle

Ray Wert — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 10:00:00 EDT

The 2009 Hyundai Genesis ranks highest in launch performance among vehicle models introduced during the first ten months of 2008, according to J.D. Power and Associates' 2009 Vehicle Launch Index released today. Hyundai? Yes, Hyundai.

The Vehicle Launch Index ranks how well new vehicle models — including new entries to the market and all-new and redesigned models — perform during the first eight months after launch. The Genesis blew the rest of the pack of 27 new models out of the water, with a score of 689 on a 1,000-point scale. Following the Hyundai Genesis in the rankings are the 2009 Ford F-150 (673) and 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan (663).

It's the third major award for the Hyundai Genesis. Consumer Reports rated it the top new upscale sedan, besting the Lexus ES 350. The Genesis also won the 2009 North American Car & Truck Of The Year award.

On the lower end of JD Power's scale were the 2009 Dodge Journey (513), 2009 Pontiac Vibe (504), 2009 Dodge Ram (459) and the Vibe's platform brother-in-arms, the 2009 Toyota Matrix (439).

Full press release below and the full chart of all 27 newly-launched vehicles are above. Click the graphic to enlarge the list to something more legible.

J.D. Power and Associates Reports: Hyundai Genesis Ranks Highest in Inaugural Vehicle Launch Index
Getting New Vehicles Right from the Start is Critical, as Automakers Will Pour $50 Billion Into U.S. Launches During the Next Four Years

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif.: 22 July 2009 - The 2009 Hyundai Genesis ranks highest in launch performance among vehicle models introduced during the first ten months of 2008, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2009 Vehicle Launch Index SM (VLI) released today.

The inaugural Vehicle Launch Index quantifies how well new vehicle models-including new entries to the market and all-new and redesigned models-perform during the first eight months after launch. The VLI examines various factors that are critical to the financial success of a launch, including turn rate, vehicle revenue, dealer gross profit, incentive spend, credit quality and residual value. In addition, VLI includes the key factors of vehicle quality and design, based on the J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study SM (IQS) and Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study.SM

The Vehicle Launch Index is an independent measure designed to help automakers plan and execute successful vehicle launches in order to maximize revenue and profits, minimize incentive spending and maintain high residual values during a model's lifecycle.

"Launching new vehicles successfully is critical to the financial success of every automaker," said Gary Dilts, senior vice president of global automotive at J.D. Power and Associates. "Given lower consumer demand, vehicle proliferation and the financial pressures on the auto industry, every manufacturer must get it ‘right' from the start. By carefully analyzing more than 90 vehicle launches that have been executed in the United States, we have determined the key factors for launch success."

The 2009 Hyundai Genesis is the leading example of initial launch success and ranks highest among the 27 models examined in the 2009 VLI, with a score of 689 on a 1,000-point scale. Following the Hyundai Genesis in the rankings are the 2009 Ford F-150 (673) and 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan (663).

J.D. Power and Associates forecasts that automakers will conduct 205 new-model launches in the U.S. between 2009 and 2012 and will invest approximately $50 billion in the process. Of the 205 new models, 80 will be new entries to the market, 52 will be all-new models, and 73 will be major redesigns.

"With so much at stake, it is more critical than ever for manufacturers to launch new models that meet their financial targets, as well as product quality and consumer appeal benchmarks," said Dilts. "While some domestic manufacturers are facing tight scrutiny from the federal government and taxpayers, every automaker across the globe is being closely monitored both by governments and shareholders. Strong showings by new models are vital to the economic security of the automakers and will be instrumental in rebuilding Americans' confidence in the auto industry."

The VLI has identified the following key elements that drive the success of newly-launched models:

* Optimal vehicle price and volume levels are established prior to launch;
* Manufacturers sustain the proper product mix and incentive support;
* Automakers and dealers effectively manage inventory levels and turn rates;
* The model is attractively designed and provides high levels of consumer appeal in terms of styling, performance, functionality and ease of operation;
* The model launches with high initial quality, enhancing the automaker's image and supporting residual values.

Conversely, the following conditions lead to less-successful model launches:

* Unrealistic expectations regarding pricing and sales volumes;
* Poor balance of supply and demand, leading to excessive inventory levels;
* Inadequate vehicle appeal and poor initial quality leading to low consumer acceptance and a tarnished brand image.

The 2009 Vehicle Launch Index includes 2008 and 2009 model-year vehicles first sold between January and October 2008. Vehicles must be all-new or major redesigns and must sell at least 5,000 units during the first eight months to be included. The index is based on proprietary information collected through the Power Information Network and J.D. Power and Associates' consumer research.

The Vehicle Launch Index is part of J.D. Power and Associates' 10-module Launch Assurance Program designed to provide automakers with immediate and actionable insights about their vehicle models from initial concept and product development through manufacturing and distribution to the initial ownership experience.

About J.D. Power and Associates
Headquartered in Westlake Village, Calif., J.D. Power and Associates is a global marketing information services company operating in key business sectors including market research, forecasting, performance improvement, Web intelligence and customer satisfaction. The company's quality and satisfaction measurements are based on responses from millions of consumers annually. For more information on car reviews and ratings, car insurance, health insurance, cell phone ratings, and more, please visit JDPower.com. J.D. Power and Associates is a business unit of The McGraw-Hill Companies.

About The McGraw-Hill Companies
Founded in 1888, The McGraw-Hill Companies (NYSE: MHP) is a leading global information services provider meeting worldwide needs in the financial services, education and business information markets through leading brands such as Standard & Poor's, McGraw-Hill Education, BusinessWeek and J.D. Power and Associates. The Corporation has more than 280 offices in 40 countries. Sales in 2008 were $6.4 billion. Additional information is available at http://www.mcgraw-hill.com/.

Hummer Tops Recent Study Of Most Ticketed Vehicles

Andrew Didorosi — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 07:30:00 EST

A study of traffic tickets revealing the most and least ticketed vehicles reinforces obvious stereotypes: Hummer owners are arrogant, self-centered and over-indulgent, while drivers of Buick Park Avenues appear to have no discernible pulse.

The annual nationwide study of 1.7 million vehicles receiving traffic code violations by ISO Quality Planning in California, reveals Hummer H2s and H3s sit atop the list of most ticketed vehicles. Below, the full list of the top ten most and least ticketed vehicles.

Here's the San Francisco-based company's methodology:

Traffic code violations data for a one-year period from 2007 and 2008 were used for the study. Vehicles that were discontinued for more than 10 years were not included in the analysis. Violations were standardized based on the number of violations per 100,000 miles driven for each model. That standardization accounts for the differences in average annual miles driven by different models. Each vehicle model’s violation count per 100,000 miles was compared with the average across all the models to identify the 10 models with the highest and lowest violations, as compared to the average. For example, Hummer drivers were 4.63 times more likely to get a ticket, as compared to the average.

The study found these are the ten most ticketed vehicles, in order from most ticketed to least along with the percentage above the average:
Oh Hummer, why must you consume our pocketbooks? We love you when you run over things, play in the water or transform into a mysterious quasi-governmental robot. With the price of gas coming down, things between us have been more livable, but we still can't afford your ravenous addiction to gasoline. Maybe this is why GM is trying to off you.

Now for the other side of the ticketing coin. The ten least ticketed vehicles in the country, this time from least ticketed to most, along with the percentages less they receive tickets from the average are:

Buicks, Olds and big Chevys? Shocker. An interesting side note: Chevy Tahoes and Hummer H2s are basically the same vehicle mechanically — why the huge difference? Our guess may be it has something to do with the mind-set of the people who drive them. Remember, sometimes stereotypes are stereotypes for a reason — at least when it comes to the type of people who purchase certain vehicles.

[Newsday via Motive Forums, ISO Quality Planning]

Photo Credit: Flickr

2009 Toyota Matrix Ad Campaign Prank Oriented

Ben Wojdyla — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 11:20:00 EDT

We were lured to Toyota's 2009 Matrix website by way of flash video ad featuring an old lanky black man in a suit wearing tin foil shoes talking about aliens. That seems to have been sane for the marketing Toyota is using for online promotion of its new miniwagon. The site yourotheryou.com is based primarily around the pretense of 'pranking' a friend somehow but only if you hand over your and their personal contact information. We're sure it will only be used for the pranking, absolutely no targeted mailers right. In any case, we decided it may be fun to 'prank' ourselves and see just how clever or lame this is. The game will unfold over the course of five days, beginning today. Always helpful, Toyota has provided a schedule to track the progress of our self prankulation.

- 3/13/08: The Mystery Caller
- 3/14/08: We Know Where You Live
- 3/15/08: The Coronett Motel
- 3/16/08: The Sign
- 3/17/08: The Grand Finale

We suspect this will end up with a deluge of glossy Toyota Matrix mailers covering every inch of our trash can, but we can only wait to see. Oh yeah, and the name we chose for the "friend" we're pranking - Assy McGee.

LA Auto Show: 2009 Toyota Matrix Rally Sport

Jonny Lieberman — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 13:45:00 EST

Supercharged? Check. Intercooled? Big time. 19" Wheels and beefier brakes? You know it. Diffuser? Apparently. Hood scoop? Yeah. Roof scoop? Hell yeah. Why, it's the new Toyota Matrix Rally Sport. Get 'em while they're hot! Make the jump to read the press release.

Toyota Unveils All-New Corolla Matrix At 2007 SEMA Show

October 31, 2007 - Las Vegas - Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., unveiled the all-new second-generation Corolla Matrix at a press conference today at the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show.
The Toyota Matrix, the sporty five-door vehicle that helped redefine the concept of a crossover utility vehicle, has been redesigned for the 2009 model year to offer performance that matters for driver enjoyment.
"The Matrix concept was based on blending the functionality of an SUV, the style, image and performance of a sports car with the affordability of a subcompact sedan," said Tim Morrison, Toyota Division corporate marketing manager. "For 2009, it's all that, and more. It may have the body of a five-door hatch, but it comes with the soul of a two-door sports car."
Development of the 2009 Matrix focused on greater exterior coupe-like styling with enhanced interior utility and improved dynamic performance. It was made wider with a lower stance than the current model while maintaining its interior space. The result is a sporty, dynamic shape that contains room for five people to ride in comfort. As a result of significant changes to the Matrix's profile, the theme is flowing and dynamic. The design expresses a low center of gravity, and coupe-like style with a fun-to-drive image. From the rear, the Matrix has rounded rear windows and continuous character lines that run from the front grille to the A-pillar.
Matrix will be available in three grades - Standard, S and the XRS. And Matrix will offer the option of all-wheel drive (AWD) with the S grade. The S and XRS models integrate a front underbody spoiler with a large mesh fog lamp bezel and rear underbody spoiler. A rear deck spoiler will be standard for all XRS models.
The Matrix interior is completely redesigned to enhance driving enjoyment, comfort and utility.
Seats have been redesigned to accommodate the vehicle's new lower profile while maintaining the expected high comfort levels, and seat positions were lowered slightly to maintain appropriate headroom. As a result, cabin space remains equal to that of the previous Matrix.
A new three-spoke steering wheel enhances the rest of the new Matrix interior. XRS models come standard with a leather-trimmed steering wheel that also includes spoke-mounted audio controls and hands-free Bluetooth® capability when equipped.
The driver and front passenger are treated to comfortable new sport seats, with seat-mounted side airbags. A fold-down seatback table will be available for the front passenger's seat, enhancing interior utility on S and XRS. A movable and removable cup support element for the front center console helps provide versatile storage area and convenience. The cup holder area can be used as a tray when the divider is removed.
For rear-seat passengers, expanded front-to-back couple distance helps to provide additional room and comfort. A folding seat with a 60/40 split includes a middle-seat headrest for the fifth passenger.
The Matrix is equipped with a new, high-efficiency air-conditioning system with larger vents for directional accuracy and offers reduced power consumption and improved heating and cooling.
The 2009 Matrix offers the choice of two different engines, a five-speed manual transmission, and either four- or five-speed automatic transmissions.
A 16-valve, 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine will produce 132 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 128 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,400 rpm. The engine will feature Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence) on both the intake and exhaust camshafts that helps it achieve outstanding performance and economy.
Estimated EPA fuel economy ratings are 26/32 city/highway mpg for manual transmission models and 25/31 for the automatic transmission model powered by a 1.8-liter engine.
For those who crave just a bit more horsepower and torque, the Matrix offers a 16-valve DOHC 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with VVT-i that will produce 158 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 162 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm.
Matrix models powered by the 2.4-liter engine with five-speed automatic transmission will have an estimated EPA fuel economy of 21/29 city/highway mpg.
The Matrix's base wheel is a 16-inch steel unit with a six-spoke full wheel cover. A distinctive 17-inch five-spoke aluminum wheel will be available for the S grade, and an 18-inch aluminum alloy wheel with a twin five-spoke design will come standard on the XRS grade.
Dual-stage SRS airbags will be standard for the driver and front passenger. Front seat-mounted side airbags, two-row side curtain airbags and front active headrests are also standard.
Brake performance will be improved with standard front and rear disc brakes on all Matrix grades. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) are also standard. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with TRAC and off switch will be standard on XRS and available as an option on all other models. VSC automatically adjusts engine output and the vehicle's braking force at each wheel when the vehicle experiences a loss of traction during cornering.
Form, fun and functionality will be in abundance with an array of standard convenience features across all three grades. Base equipment on all Matrix models include power color-keyed outside rearview mirrors, power steering, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, daytime running lights, heavy duty rear window defogger, intermittent windshield wipers, 12-volt power outlet, four cupholders, auxiliary audio input jack, front center console box and an engine immobilizer.
The S grade adds standard power door locks and windows with one-touch down driver-side, 115-volt power outlet, cruise control, intermittent rear window wiper, fold-flat front passenger seat, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD with MP3 capability and six speakers, front and rear underbody spoilers and fog lamps.
In addition to these features, the XRS grade features standard P215/45 R18 tires on 18-inch alloy wheels, sport strut tower brace, VSC with TRAC and off switch, and a three-spoke leather-trimmed steering wheel with audio steering wheel controls.
In addition to the array of standard equipment, an impressive list of optional comfort and utility features are available to further enhance the Matrix driving experience. Available options will include an AM/FM/CD with six-speaker system with DVD navigation with XM NavTraffic® capability, alloy wheels, power heated outside rearview mirror, intermittent rear window wiper, cruise control, power door locks, power windows, and remote keyless entry.
The all-new Matrix will hit Toyota dealerships in February 2008.

2009 MATRIX PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS

POWERTRAIN
1.8-liter four-cylinder engine
132 hp @6,000 rpm
128 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4,400 rpm
Five-speed manual and Four-speed automatic transmissions

2.4-liter four-cylinder engine
158 hp @ 6,000 rpm
162 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4,000 rpm
Five-speed manual and four and five-speed automatic transmissions

DIMENSIONS (inches)
Overall Length: 173.0 (S and XRS grades)
171.9 (Standard grade and S all-wheel-drive grade)
Overall Width: 69.5
Overall Height: 61.4 (XRS and S all-wheel-drive grades)
61.0 (Standard grade and S)
Wheelbase: 102.4
Ground clearance: 5.3 (S and XRS grades)
5.8 (Standard grade)

2009 Pontiac Vibe Revealed On Video

Ray Wert — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 12:05:00 EST

Despite still being a few hours away from the official reveal, the folks at the General have graciously dropped some video clips of the new 2009 Pontiac Vibe onto a public web site, so we've decided to go ahead and run them. The video gives us a bit more of a look at the new Vibe-rator than the one press shot we've already been handed. The arrow-headed brand's newly redesigned 2009 Pontiac Vibe comes on the heels of the SEMA reveals of its two NUMMI-platform stable mates, the Toyota Corolla and Toyota Matrix. The five-seat, crossover SUV features a revised exterior and interior design and enhanced safety features, including a tire pressure monitoring system, OnStar and an electronic vehicle stability control system. In addition, GM's also announcing the return of the all-wheel-drive and GT models to the Vibe line-up which should, you know, be something for anyone whom this car may perhaps build excitement in. Depending on the model and engine size, the Vibe's fuel economy in the city varies from an estimated 19 mpg to 26 mpg. All 2009 Vibe models are scheduled to rollout in early 2008. We'll have more shortly. UPDATE: Live reveal shots of the 2009 Pontiac Vibe below.

Photo Credit: Sherry Kraft

SEMA 2007: Toyota Matrix XRS Revealed

Mike Bumbeck — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:15:00 EDT

In celebration of Halloween and 50 years in America Toyota revealed the stock versions of the 2009 Corolla and Corolla Matrix. We looked for the aforementioned scantily clad sirens and nitrous bottles, but all we heard were scary noises. Both cars were said to have super aftermarket potential! The MillenWorks Matrix was over in another hall, but we did catch the stock XRS.

2009 Toyota Matrix Unveiled...and Pimped

Ray Wert — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:00:30 EDT

UPDATE: The new 2009 Toyota Corolla was also unveiled — all the shots are here. In addition to the over-pimped 2009 Toyota Corolla we saw a few minutes ago, the Toyota folks also unveiled an over-pimped 2009 Toyota Matrix. Yes, this is the new Matrix, only in an options-addition mode. We're waiting on Bumbeck's shots of the Toyota Performance Parts delete option model from the Hilton across the street — feel free to check these shots out while you wait.
UPDATE: Full gallery of the new 2009 Matrix — the real one — just added below thanks to the mighty Mike Bumbeck!

2009 Toyota Matrix...Again, Sorta

Ray Wert — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 13:45:00 EDT

Not only is the new 2009 Toyota Corolla dressed up as a spooky ghost here at SEMA, but so's its platform-prostitute lifemate, the 2009 Toyota Matrix. That's right, Toyota's continuing the dressed-up-as-a-ghost Halloween theme as here's the new and soon-to-be revealed Toyota Matrix looking all ghoulishly adorable outside of the convention center here in Vegas. We wonder whether seeing the Matrix will end up being a trick or a treat come Wednesday night — judging by the few details we're able to see of the new Matrix, we're thinking maybe a little of both.

The 2009 Toyota Matrix Is A Scary Ghost

Ray Wert — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 13:00:00 EDT

We told you yesterday that Toyota plans to reveal the new-for-2009 Matrix at SEMA on the last day of October. What we didn't see was the press shot accompanying the release. That would be the boo-tiful shot above of the new '09 Matrix all dressed up to go trick-or-treating in Las Vegas on the occasion of its Halloween reveal. Although someone should really warn the Matrix about the Vegas definition of the word "trick" before he starts to offer up the choice to drunk pedestrians on the strip. [via World Car Fans]

What Car Makes You The Saddest?

Jonny Lieberman — Wed, 12 Sep 2007 12:15:00 EDT

Beat this: the year was 2002, sink or swim time for old Pontiac. They needed something, anything, to bolster their "excitement" branding because for the past ten years the division had done little but crap out plastic-clad rentals. Why not a sporty little wagon? Sure, the kids will love it, families on a budget will love it and people who have to haul a lot of lightweight junk around (like my friend Peter the photographer) would be all over it. Obviously, this calls for a clean sheet design, right? No, Pontiac is part of GM, the largest car maker the world ~~has~~ had ever known. Therefor Vibe was (and still is) nothing more than a re-skinned and re-badged Toyota Matrix. And what's a Toyota Matrix? Glad you asked. Like a Lexus R330 is actually a Camry, the Matrix is nothing more than a boxy, jacked up Corolla. To recap, GM's youth-oriented "Excitement" division hangs a new nose off a fat Japanese economy box that delivers Novocaine instead of thrills and almost mendaciously names it, "Vibe." But, that's not why I'm so sad.

In 2002, GM happened to own a 20% stake in Fuji Heavy Industries, the parent of Subaru. In 2001, Subaru introduced a car Stateside to mondo acclaim. Automobile named it their Car of the Year. Car & Driver stuck it on their 10 Best List. Consumer Reports named it a Best Buy. I bought one. Yup folks, we're talking 'bout the Subaru WRX. Now pretend you're a Pontiac brand manager for a moment. Your car czar has called your division, "Damaged." You are aware that Pontiac occupies a chamber of every true pistonhead's heart because you invented the muscle car. Wouldn't you at least raise your hand during a marketing meeting and make a case for building the Vibe off the WRX chassis? Yes, $25,000 is a lot of scratch for a small wagon. But exactly like sibling Saab did when they got the WRX platform and badged it as a 9-2X, why not sell both a normally aspirated version? The less-powerful guy can sticker for around $17,000 (essentially what the Vibe costs) and the more expensive a turbo iteration is for the enthusiasts. Makes sense, right?

Saab's 9-2X, of course, was an utter flop and discontinued after just three years. And why not? Did the the 9-2X offer a single meaningful improvement over the WRX upon which it was based? No. Did it make any sense whatsoever as a Saab? Of course not. Put it this way, when a friend's 9-2X lease was up (they were practically giving 'em away) he bought a WRX, not a Saab. Oh, and the wizards at GM decided to slide the Saabaru's base price up by $2,500. And that was for the turbo-charged Aero model. The non-turbo Linear 9-2x sold for a whopping $5,500 over the Imprezza wagon. Which was simply, fatally insane. The irony is that GM sold a large chuck of its shares in Fuji Heavy Industries to none other than Toyota.

Out grabbing coffee today I saw a baby-blue Vibe and hung my head in shame. Could you imagine what a sales success a WRX-based Pontiac turbo AWD wagon would a have been? Especially compared to the duller than dirt Vibe? Oh, my friend Peter the photographer I mentioned above, bought a Matrix instead of the Vibe because he thought the Pontiac looked like the Aztek, the Toyota cost less and, in his words, "It's a Toyota." Sigh... You?

Oh, What Higher Prices! Toyota Edges Stickers Up On Seven Models

Ray Wert — Fri, 15 Dec 2006 13:49:19 EST

The front office in Toyota City appears to have said "Hai!" and green lighted the NorAm branch of the super best number one awesome automaker from Japan to raise prices on seven ToMoCo models. According to the Associated Press,

"The average price increase on the models was $136, or about 0.7%.

Among the changes, the suggested price of the Corolla compact sedan will rise $100, or 0.6%; the FJ Cruiser sport utility vehicle will rise $200, or 0.9%; and gasoline-powered versions of the Camry midsize sedan will rise $200, or 0.9%.

Prices also will rise on the Yaris subcompact sedan and hatchback, Matrix crossover utility vehicle, RAV4 compact SUV and Tacoma pickup truck."

This is a move we can only assume is meant to boost numbers on the automakers already sky-high profit levels. Unless of course it's to help prop up flagging sales at US automakers — which isn't entirely speculative, considering it's CEO said as much a year and a half ago. Either way, Happy Hanukkah from Toyota! – Ray Wert

Prices on 7 Toyota models to edge up [AP via Freep]

Spy Photos: 2008 Toyota Matrix? 2008 Pontiac Vibe? We Report, You Decide

Ray Wert — Thu, 12 Oct 2006 13:40:12 EDT

Sometimes a spy photog gets a bit too confident in what they think they're seeing — and sometimes forget that they've got a heavily camo'ed concept sitting in front of them — and really, as is the case here, who really knows what the hell it is. Edmunds and other sites are reporting the shots they've got are of the 2008 Pontiac Vibe — including a "high-performance" version. We've no idea how someone would know that just from these pics, but whatevs, we'd buy it if an "authority" told us that. Another authority on the subject's got their own take on the picture:

"...aint no way this is a Pontiac...it has toyota camo...more likely this is the matrix. It doesn't have certain things a GM proto would have, plus that's the exact same [camo material] toyota uses. It sounds silly, but the camo tells me all I need to know."

So, what is it? Is it the 2008 Pontiac Vibe? Is it the 2008 Toyota Matrix? Who the hell knows — we can't see shit — it looks like a shoe wrapped in a plastic bag to us. – Ray Wert

FV Report: 2008 Pontiac Vibe spy photos [Edmunds Straightline]

Related:
Spec It Up! Toyota Matrix M-Theory [internal]

Spec It Up! Toyota Matrix M-Theory

Mike Spinelli — Wed, 02 Aug 2006 08:24:01 EDT

Fans of the Toyota Matrix — you must know who you are — will likely be overjoyed with the model's new M-Theory package for the 2007 model year. With all-wheel drive and Matrix XRS models getting the axe for '07, the company's filling the higher-spec gap with a sport edition it hopes will pull down the average age of Matrix buyers from around 48 to somewhere in the high 46s.

The M-Theory package includes Speedway Blue paint with matching rear deck lid spoiler, chrome exhaust tip, 17" Caldina alloys under P215/50R17s, tuned suspension with sport strut tower brace, four wheel disc brakes, logo floor mats, and an individually numbered limited edition plaque (collect em' all!). Only 2,500 units will be built, at a package cost of $1,500 over the Matrix's base MSRP of $15,260 with five-speed manual or $17,570 for the XR with four-speed automatic.