Redesigned Matrix appeals to drivers of all ages

ATLANTA — The redesigned 2009 Toyota Corolla Matrix has a lower, wider look sporty enough for drivers under 25 thanks to front and rear underbody spoilers and a spoiler mounted on rear deck. Meanwhile, an array of D-rings and shopping bag hooks help make the interior utilitarian enough for those who have moved solidly into middle age. Drivers of all ages will appreciate the fuel economy and modest sticker price.

CAR AND DRIVER

The XRS also has a new independent rear suspension, and we'd like to say that makes a big difference, but it doesn't. The Matrix's electric power steering felt slightly different on every model, ranging from numb to very numb. Handling was reasonably crisp, the ride smooth except when the low-profile tires dived into a pothole.

WHAT'S SPECIAL: The Matrix is something like a compact station wagon, able to carry a good amount of cargo and still be easy to parallel park in a tight spot. There is nearly 20 cubic feet of cargo room behind the rear seats and just over 60 with both the seats down. There are four D-rings in the floor to tie down cargo. Four hooks keep plastic grocery bags from sliding around.

WHAT WE LIKE: While it's no rocket ship, the top-of-the-line XRS trim has a bit of scoot thanks to a 2.4-liter four-cylinder providing 158 horsepower. The five-speed automatic transmission was crisp and efficient. The base engine is a 132-horsepower, 1.8 liter four-cylinder.

WHAT ISN'T THERE: Loads of rear legroom. Sitting in the back of the Matrix requires good posture. There isn't room to slump or sprawl. Rear passengers will also get a jolt if you take a speed bump too speedily.

YOU OUGHTA KNOW: Electronic stability control with traction control is standard with the XRS trim and optional on the two lesser versions. Front seat-mounted side air bags to protect the driver and front passenger are standard on all models, as are side curtain air bags that protect everyone sitting by a window.

EXTRAS: The standard Matrix is fairly bare bones. You have to step up to the S grade to get features such as power windows and door locks. The XRS trim, however, comes complete with just about everything you need and some things you really don't: AM/FM/CD player with iPod jack, steering wheel audio controls, cruise control, 115-volt power outlet to charge your cell phone, remote keyless entry. A touch-screen navigation system is part of a $1,300 option package.

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Inside, the redesigned Matrix looks and feels much like the original car, though obviously updated. It continues to offer a sportier ambience than the Corolla. The driving position is vastly improved in the '09 model, with credit going to the new telescoping steering wheel and increased seat-track travel. The controls are laid out to ergonomic near-perfection.

AND ANOTHER THING: The navigation system in the test car sometimes chose perplexing routes. Good thing we already knew where the office was.

Toyota Corolla Matrix

Body styles: five-door hatchback

Trim lines: standard, S, XRS

Price: Base MSRP $16,190-$21,850, tester was $25,049

Drive: front wheel, all-wheel

Seating: two in front, three in back

Engine: 1.8-liter four-cylinder; 2.4-liter four-cylinder

Transmission: five-speed manual; four-speed automatic; five-speed automatic

Miles per gallon of fuel: EPA estimate 21 city/29 highway

Clint Williams writes for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.