During the early part of this decade Toyota was examining its vehicle line up and the choice was made to build a vehicle to entice young people who were attempting to find something that was small, fun to drive, and affordable. While the Corolla served faithfully in this capacity, Toyota needed something that spoke excitement. The Corolla just wasn’t that sort of a vehicle and something radically different was required. Enter the Matrix. Based on the Corolla platform, the Matrix does what no Corolla can do : turn heads. We’ll have a look at this sporty compact and see how the 2006 model stacks up.

In 2003, the Matrix was introduced to the North American market. Built in California as a joint venture with General Motors – the Pontiac Vibe is its twin – the Matrix is directed toward budget conscious young folks who need a car that makes a statement. To save cash, the Corolla frame was used, but the Matrix stands some 3 inches taller and is eight inches shorter than its Toyota sibling. The roof line on the Matrix is completely different too as it slopes from front to back and ends in a wedge, giving the car somewhat of a wagon look to it. This rakish appearance is what gives the Matrix its unique look as well as an extra bit of room for people and their stuff. Indeed, both driver and front passenger sit higher up, much like in a tiny SUV or as in an automobile like Chrysler’s PT Cruiser. With 4 doors and a rear lift gate, the Matrix acts more like a truck, but its swish exterior simply refutes that fact.

Motorists have a choice between front wheel drive and a 4 wheel drive versions of the car, something not offered on the Corolla. The standard motor for the Matrix is a 1.8-liter DOHC 16-valve VVT-I 4-cylinder engine. Joined to a five speed manual transmission, the engine turns out a respectable 126hp. For more power, there is also a higher tuned version of the same engine delivering 164hp. It is getting twinned with a six speed manual transmission. 4 wheel drive versions of the Matrix come provided with a 4-wheel anti-lock brake system [ABS] which is optional on 2WD models.

Gas mileage for the Matrix makes the auto a motorist’s dream. At 30 mpg city and 36 m.p.g road, the front wheel drive version of the vehicle produces some of the best results of any non-hybrid vehicle sold in North America. A thirteen gallon fuel tank makes 400 mile trips a likelihood on only one tank of gas ; this is very good for the student who has to drive forwards and forth between school campus and home.

Unlike many vehicles of its size, the aftermarket crowd has produced a wide variety of products to help Matrix owners customise their automobiles. Hood protectors, tail light covers, polymer air dams, mist lights, hood scoops and vents, mud flaps, and paintable window covers are some of the Toyota parts and accessories pitched to youth, who are the primary owners of the Matrix.

MSRP starts at US$15,110 [CDN$17,200] with a top of the line Matrix topping out at slightly under US$20K to about CDN$25K.

For the entire North Yankee market, Toyota sells nearly 100,000 Matrix’ per year. Not bad for a vehicle whose origins are reasonably straightforward but whose heart is truly sporty and youth minded.

What are the most expensive and fastest cars in the world? To find out, visit thesupercars.org and check it out for yourself. Also, have a look at used Toyota Paseo for sale.