Toyota Matrix, is it for you?

Good day folks. Yes, the new year is finally upon us!! Hope all went nice and safe for you all. Today, we'll get a look at one of the little cars out there, and what it could mean to you.

I got the chance to see and drive a great little car a few days ago. What a cool, safe ride!! To say it gives you bang for the buck, is an understatement. This writer got the chance to put a few miles on one, and although I haven't been a small car fan, I could make an exception here.

The version I drove was a silver gray metallic, with a black interior. This one had a 5 speed gearbox ( it also comes w/a 6 speed, and an automatic ), with the base 1.8 liter I 4. It also can be had with a optional 2.4 liter as well. The handling, cornering, open throttle response all were very pleasing. Being an old school hot rodder, I was pleasantly surprised!! When it came to parking this little guy, heck it was almost a no brainer!! Blind spots are tiny at best, and the steering ratio was quick.

The car can be ordered with all the creature comforts, or just a few, depnding on your budget. This one had a CD changer, tilt steering, power locks, windows and power drivers seat. How cool in a small car. The engine had plenty of pep as well!! The ability to zip through traffic at will, and not worry about getting out of the way, was a great feeling. I didn't get the chance to test the bigger engine w/the 6 speed, but the sales guy assured me that for the extra money, it was worth it!!

The mileage figures are nice, to say the least. It is rated at 26 mpg for the city, and 32 mpg for the highway. These figures of course depend on your own driving habits, and conditions. I can live with those, let me tell you!! Easy on the wallet, I am there for that!! So, what is this little beauty going to cost you? Well, I'm glad you asked!! Those with bare bones in mind, it'll go for around 16,200. Not bad for what your getting. For those that want a fully loaded, with all the bells and whistles, it can go for up to 24,500. You'll almost get all of it back in 4-5 years of ownership. An almost maintenance free auto ( scheduled maintenance not withstanding ) it is an easy decision if thats your cup of tea!! I would recommend it to those that were curious, without hesitation. To some, the name rings quality. Toyota makes a darn good product, and should you venture to go there, it will surely bring a smile to your face!! For more info on these cars, be sure to contact your nearest Toyota dealer. They'll be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Well, until next time folks, have a great day, and God bless!!