The 2010 Matrix: additional safety features join sensational performance and distinctive style to make things better for the perfect Canadian car

(TORONTO) – It’s sporty and stylish, combining sensational performance and surprising versatility. It’s available in a range of engine and drive-train configurations, from a fuel-friendly 1.8litre four-cylinder front wheel drive to a winter-taming 2.4litre four-cylinder all-wheel-drive model. And it’s built in right here in Canada by the team members at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada in Cambridge, Ontario.

 

There are plenty of reasons why Canadians are excited by the Toyota Matrix, and for the 2010 model year, Toyota adds safety features as standard to more models to make things better for those looking for the perfect Canadian car.

 

“The Toyota Matrix gives Canadians more of what they want: power, performance, handling, safety, versatility and efficiency. Built exclusively at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada Inc. in Cambridge, Ontario, the Toyota Matrix is designed to tackle the worst weather Mother Nature can throw at Canadian drivers from coast to coast, and make driving fun again,” said Warren Orton, Director of Toyota Canada Inc. “What’s more, the Matrix – first introduced earlier this decade – has already proven itself to be a smart driving choice, as a reliable yet fun vehicle that represents tremendous value from the moment a driver leaves their Toyota Dealer, and for years afterward.”

 

New for the 2010 model year, the MatrixXR and MatrixAWD join the MatrixXRS in featuring Toyota’s Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC) as standard equipment. These two Toyota handling and control technologies are also available on the base Toyota Matrix equipped with the Touring Package.

 

The 2010 Toyota Matrix is now on sale at Toyota Dealers across Canada. The Matrix carries a manufacturer’s suggested retail price starting at $16,665. The Matrix XR starts at a suggested price of $20,575, the Matrix AWD starts at a suggested price of $23,695, and the Matrix XRS starts at a suggested price of $26,275.

 

2010 TOYOTA MATRIX – PRODUCT DETAIL 

  

The Perfect Canadian Car

Canadians demand more of their vehicles today than ever before. Drivers expect all-weather performance and handling, passengers desire comfort, and owners require versatility, fuel-efficiency and value. It’s no wonder that the Matrix became an instant hit when Toyota introduced the model earlier this decade. The Matrix not only delivers the functionality of a small SUV, the style, image and performance of a sports car, and the affordability of a compact sedan – it’s also built exclusively in Canada, at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada Inc. (TMMC) in Cambridge, Ontario.

 

The Matrix was completely redesigned for the 2009 model year, with a distinctively sporty new body style, a choice of two all-new engines and three transmissions, upgraded suspension systems, highly responsive electric power steering and a choice of front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive configurations. What’s more, the team members at TMMC provided valuable contributions to this design, such as pedal spacing that accommodates winter boots and cup holders that fit popular Canadian coffee cup sizes, to ensure that the Matrix continues to be the perfect Canadian car.

 

For this, the 2010 model year, Toyota has found new ways to make things better for Matrix fans, including the addition of Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC) as standard equipment on the MatrixXR and MatrixAWD, the addition of VSC and TRAC to the Touring Package for the base model Matrix, and the creation of a special Sport Package with Navigation for the MatrixXR and MatrixAWD trim levels that features a DVD-based navigation system, power moon roof, fog lamps and sporty styling touches.

 

Models

The 2010 Toyota Matrix is available in seven models, as follows:

Power and performance

More power – less fuel. Canadians demand it – Matrix delivers. The 2010 Toyota Matrix is offered in a choice fo two engine sizes that deliver big performance without a correspondingly big gas bill.

 

Canadian drivers with versatility and efficiency at the top of their list will love the powerful yet efficient 1.8litre four cylinder found in the Toyota Matrix, mated to a choice of five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.

 

Those to place a priority on sporty performance have a choice of the MatrixXR or MatrixXRS, each of which punches above its weight with a 2.4litre four-cylinder powerhouse and a choice of five-speed manual or five-speed sequential shift automatic transmissions.

 

All-weather performance never looked better, in the made-for-Canada All-Wheel-Drive Toyota MatrixAWD. Equipped with the 2.4litre engine and a four-speed automatic, the MatrixAWD makes winter driving sure-footed and fun again.

 

Regardless of engine size, transmission or drive train, Canadians trust the Toyota Matrix to deliver the power and performance they want, and the fuel-friendliness they need.

 

Handling and control

*New for 2010: MatrixXR and MatrixAWD models upgraded with Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC) included as standard equipment*

 

The 2010 Toyota Matrix is designed from the road up to deliver sensational performance, whether it’s straight line acceleration on a highway or hugging the twists and turns of a country road. All models are equipped with electric power rack and pinion steering to deliver rapid, controlled and smooth response and handling.

 

New for 2010, the MatrixXR and MatrixAWD are now standard-equipped with Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC). These two Toyota performance technologies are also standard on the MatrixXRS, and are now included in the Touring Package for the base Toyota Matrix. Canadians seeking the all-weather confidence of All-Wheel-Drive will delight in the MatrixAWD, which also features the Toyota Active Torque Control System.

 

All Matrix models are fitted with an independent front suspension featuring Macpherson gas struts and stabilizer bar. For even more sporty fun, the MatrixXRS also features a sport strut tower brace on the front suspension.

 

To the rear, the Matrix and MatrixXR are equipped with a torsion beam suspension with stabilizer bar, while the MatrixAWD and MatrixXRS are fitted with an independent double wishbone rear suspension with stabilizer bar to squeeze out maximum performance potential.

 

Dependable braking for stopping performance

Performance covers more than acceleration and handling, of course. Braking ability is equally important, and here the Matrix really shines, with front ventilated discs and rear discs, enhanced with a suite of Toyota braking technologies, including Toyota’s Antilock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD).

 

A smart and comfortable cabin

The Matrix enjoyed immediate success in Canada, thanks to a versatile interior that can carry five passengers or plenty of cargo, and the revised body shape introduced in the 2009 model year retains that versatility in a sportier silhouette that’s still comfortable. The instrument panel and gauges are designed to impart a jet-fighter cockpit atmosphere that promises driving fun while putting all essential controls within easy reach.

 

Safety

The perfect Canadian car comes with safety features Canadians appreciate – from a carefully designed, impact-absorbing body structure… to six airbags… to Toyota’s Active Front Headrest system, which helps reduce injury caused by rear-end impacts.

 

Three-point lap and shoulder seatbelts are fitted in all five passenger positions, and include pre-tensioners and force limiters for the front seating positions, plus front seatbelt anchor height adjustors. Younger occupants are protected with anchor points for child-restraint seats and child protector locks on the rear doors.

 

All 2010 Matrix models are also equipped with an engine immobilizer.

 

Personalization

Buyers may personalize their 2010 Toyota Matrix using Toyota Canada’s web site (www.toyota.ca) or in any Toyota Dealership across Canada. 

 

Peace of mind

The 2010 Matrix is provided with Toyota's no deductible, no transfer fee, comprehensive warranty that covers the entire vehicle for three years/60,000 kilometres. Power train components are covered for five years/100,000 kilometres, major emission control components are covered for eight years/130,000 kilometres and corrosion perforation for five years with unlimited distance.

 

Toyota also provides 24-hour Roadside Assistance for all models. Help is just a phone call away at 1-888-TOYOTA-8. Roadside emergency services include battery boost, lockout service, fuel delivery, tire change, winching, and even towing. Optional Extra Care Protection (ECP) is also available, which includes travel planning and trip interruption assistance, vehicle rental help, lubrication maintenance, and mechanical protection of 17 major mechanical component groups for up to six years/200,000 kilometres.

2010 Toyota Matrix – features and specifications by model

2010 Toyota Matrix – Available upgrade packages

Convenience Package

Matrix

Includes: Air conditioning; power windows; power door locks with keyless entry; colour-matched door handles; rear bumper protector; tire pressure monitoring system.

Touring Package

Matrix

Includes: Air conditioning; power windows; power door locks with keyless entry; colour-matched door handles; rear bumper protector; tire pressure monitoring system; Vehicle Stability Control; Traction Control; 16” aluminum alloy wheels with wheel locks; Cruise control; Roof mounted spoiler; Scuff plates; Fog lamps.

Upgrade Package

Matrix XR

Includes: P215/45R17 all season radials; 17” aluminum alloy wheels with wheel locks; Leather-wrapped steering wheel; Steering wheel-mounted audio controls; Roof mounted spoiler.

Sport Package with Navigation

Matrix XR

**New Option Package for 2010 Model Year**

Includes: P215/45R17 all season radials; 17” aluminum alloy wheels with wheel locks; Leather-wrapped steering wheel; Steering wheel-mounted audio controls; Roof mounted spoiler; DVD-based navigation system; Power moonroof; Overhead sunglass storage; Front and rear underbody spoilers (instead of splash guards); Fog lamps; Chrome exhaust tip; Scuff plates.

XR Package

Matrix AWD

Includes: P215/45R17 all season radials; 17” aluminum alloy wheels with wheel locks; Leather-wrapped steering wheel; Steering wheel-mounted audio controls; Six speakers; Roof mounted spoiler; Cruise control; Colour-matched mirrors.

Sport Package with Navigation

Matrix AWD

**New Option Package for 2010 Model Year**

Includes: P215/45R17 all season radials; 17” aluminum alloy wheels with wheel locks; Leather-wrapped steering wheel; Steering wheel-mounted audio controls; Six speakers; Roof mounted spoiler; Cruise control; Colour-matched mirrors; DVD-based navigation system; Power moonroof; Overhead sunglass storage; Front and rear underbody spoilers (instead of splash guards); Fog lamps; Chrome exhaust tip; Scuff plates.

 

2010 Toyota Matrix – Technical information

Engine: 1.8L 4-cylinder

(Matrix)

Horsepower: Up to 132HP @ 6,000 RPM

Torque: Up to 128 lb-ft @ 4,400 RPM

Features: Dual overhead cams; 16 valves; Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (Dual VVT-i); Sequential multiport electronic fuel injection; Stainless steel exhaust system; Sound insulating engine cover.

Emissions rating: Tier 2, Bin 5.

 

Engine: 2.4L 4-cylinder

(MatrixXR, MatrixAWD, MatrixXRS)

Horsepower: Up to 158HP @ 6,000 RPM

Torque: Up to 162 lb-ft @ 4,000 RPM

Features: Dual overhead cams; 16 valves; Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i); Sequential multiport electronic fuel injection; Stainless steel exhaust system; Sound insulating engine cover.

Emissions rating: Tier 2, Bin 5.

 

Transmission: 5-speed manual

(Matrix, MatrixXR, MatrixXRS)

Features: Close-ratio, Overdrive

Fuel efficiency (Matrix): 7.8L/100km city; 6.2L/100km highway.

Fuel efficiency (MatrixXR, MatrixXRS): 9.6L/100km city; 7.1L/100km highway.

 

Transmission: 4-speed auto electronically controlled transmission

(Matrix, MatrixAWD)

Features: Overdrive; Lockup Torque Converter; Transmission cooler

Fuel efficiency (Matrix): 8.1L/100km city; 6.2L/100km highway.

Fuel efficiency (MatrixAWD): 10.3L/100km city; 7.7L/100km highway.

 

Transmission: 5-speed auto electronically controlled transmission

(MatrixXR, MatrixXRS)

Features: Sequential shift mode; Overdrive; Lockup Torque Converter; Transmission cooler

Fuel efficiency: 9.7L/100km city; 6.9L/100km highway.

 

Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (Dual VVT-i)

(Matrix)

Dual VVT-i is a Toyota engine system that independently varies the intake and exhaust valve timing on a continual basis to deliver optimal valve timing for a full range of driving conditions. It improves drivability, performance and fuel efficiency, and reduces emissions.

 

Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i)

(MatrixXR, MatrixAWD, MatrixXRS)

VVT-i is a Toyota engine system that continually varies the intake valve timing to deliver optimal valve timing for a full range of driving conditions. It improves drivability, performance and fuel efficiency, and reduces emissions.

 

Electronically Controlled Transmission (ECT)

(All models with an automatic transmission)

Electronic control of Toyota automatic transmissions has delivered several breakthroughs in driving comfort and vehicle efficiency. ECT helps to ensure optimal gear change timing according to throttle position and vehicle load, and judges the most suitable time to initiate torque converter lock-up for increased fuel efficiency. It also networks with the engine’s computer to co-ordinate with other control systems, as appropriate.

 

Capabilities

Seating capacity: 5 adults

Cargo capacity (behind rear seats): 0.561m³ (19.8ft³)

Cargo capacity (behind front seats, rear seats folded): 1.398m³ (49.4ft³)

Towing capacity: 680 KG (1500 LBS)

 

Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)

(Matrix XR, XRS, AWD, available on base model Matrix)

Toyota’s Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) is an active safety system that automatically helps to control a vehicle when it starts to slide – for example, when trying to turn at too high a speed. VSC compares driver braking and steering commands to the vehicle’s actual performance then activates individual brakes as needed and adjusts the throttle setting to help maintain stability and keep the vehicle on course.

 

Traction Control (TRAC)

(Matrix XR, XRS, AWD, available on base model Matrix)

Toyota’s Traction Control system (TRAC) helps the vehicle maintain traction when accelerating in slippery conditions. It also engages when the available grip differs from one side of the vehicle to the other, such as when two wheels are on a gravel or grass verge. When drive wheels begin to slip, TRAC automatically adjusts engine power to keep the wheels from losing traction.

 

Antilock Braking System (ABS)

(All models)

Toyota’s Antilock Braking System (ABS) uses sensors to monitor speed, traction, vehicle load and the driver’s applied brake force. The ABS then controls brake applications to minimize wheel lock-up, reducing the chance of the vehicle skidding. The result is shorter stopping distances on wet, gravely, sandy or other surfaces where traction is questionable.

 

Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD)

(All models)

Toyota’s Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) system minimizes stopping distances by maximizing the braking power applied to those wheels that have the best grip. This system also automatically adjusts the fore/aft brake balance according to vehicle load, and the right/left brake balance if brakes are applied during cornering.

 

Brake Assist (BA)

(All models)

Toyota’s Brake Assist (BA) is a system designed to assist the driver during emergency braking by supplementing the braking power applied if the driver has not pushed hard enough on the pedal in an emergency braking situation. It works in conjunction with ABS to minimize lock-up during emergency situations.

 

Active Headrest with Whiplash Protection

(All models)

Neck injuries are the most common reported injury in an accident. Toyota’s Active Headrest technology is designed to reduce the stress on the neck during low-speed rear accidents. When a person’s lower back presses into the seatback, the headrest moves forward and up to catch the back of the head, thereby helping to reduce the incidence and severity of whiplash.