2009 Matrix & Corolla Unveiled

Toyota unveils all-new 2009 Matrix at 2007 SEMA Show LAS VEGAS, Oct. 31 /CNW/ - The all-new, second generation 2009 Toyota Matrix was unveiled today at the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show. The sporty vehicle that helped redefine the concept of a crossover utility vehicle when it first launched, has been redesigned to offer new levels of performance. Built at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada (TMMC), currently the only plant in the world assembling this popular vehicle, the Toyota Matrix has been available since 2002. To date, TMMC has built over

460,000 of these vehicles, one quarter of which have been sold to Canadians across the country. "While only one generation old, the successful Toyota Matrix continues to appeal to Canadian drivers. It seamlessly blends the functionality of an SUV, the style and performance of a sports car and the affordability of a compact vehicle," said Tony Wearing, Managing Director of Toyota Canada Inc. "For 2009, it's all those things and more as we introduce the Matrix AWD and XRS models." Development of the 2009 Matrix focused on greater exterior 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 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 centre 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 four models - Base, XR, XRS and AWD. The XRS model integrates 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. The seats have been redesigned to accommodate the vehicle's new lower profile while maintaining 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. The driver and front passenger are treated to comfortable new seats, with seat-mounted side airbags. A fold-down seatback will be available for the front passenger's seat, enhancing interior utility on XR and XRS models. A movable and removable cup support element for the front centre console helps provide a 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 60/40 split rear seat includes a middle-seat headrest for the fifth passenger. A new three-spoke steering wheel enhances the rest of the new Matrix interior. XRS models come standard with a leather-wrapped shift knob and steering wheel that also includes spoke-mounted audio controls and hands-free Bluetooth(R) capability when equipped. On XR, XRS and AWD models, 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-litre 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 achieve outstanding performance and economy. For those who crave even more horsepower and torque, the Matrix offers a 16-valve DOHC 2.4-litre 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. The Base model Matrix is equipped with a 16-inch steel wheel with full wheel covers. A distinctive 17-inch five-spoke aluminum wheel will be available for the AWD model, and an 18-inch aluminum alloy wheel with a twin five-spoke design will come standard on the XRS model. 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 models. An Antilock Brake System (ABS) is also standard. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with TRAC and off switch will be standard on XRS and available as an option on the XR and AWD 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 models. Base equipment on all Matrix models includes new power heated outside rearview mirrors, power steering, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, daytime running lights, heavy duty rear window defogger, intermittent windshield wipers and rear window wiper/washer, 12-volt power outlet, four cupholders, auxiliary audio input jack, front centre console box and an engine immobilizer. The XR and XRS models add standard power door locks and windows with one-touch down driver-side, cruise control, fold-flat front passenger seats, remote keyless entry with hatch release and AM/FM/CD with MP3/WMA capability and six speakers. To these features, the XRS model adds standard P215/45R18 tires on 18-inch alloy wheels, sport strut tower brace, fog lamps, VSC with TRAC and off switch, a power moonroof, front and rear underbody spoilers, hands- free Bluetooth(R) capability when equipped, and a premium JBL audio system with AM/FM stereo, in-dash 6-disc CD changer, MP3/WMA capability and seven speakers. 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 alloy wheels, cruise control, power door locks, power windows, and remote keyless entry. The all-new Matrix will hit Toyota dealerships in February 2008.
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