2002 Hyundai Matrix GLi 1.6

Summary:

Space over Grace and Pace!

Faults:

Grinding sounds from the rear brakes at 15000km. Problem solved after dealer service.

Interior can be a little drab, due to its dark plastics. Even after a year, still need time to get used to the centrally located barnacle!

Finishing and refinement can be improved.

General Comments:

Mechanically, it runs like a well-oiled dream, though it may be a little underpowered.

The greatest edge from this car is the interior space! For S$67K (that's about 20+K pounds), you get a playground with wheels! Legroom and headroom all round is limousine standard (I'm 1.8m). In terms of space, nothing in this price region comes close.

Handling is pretty good, though road noise is noticeable at all times.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 20th December, 2003

2002 Hyundai Matrix GLS 1.6

Summary:

Fantastic...good value for money

General Comments:

Surprise to have a euro quality car in a korean made...fantastic...good value for money!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 14th May, 2003

2002 Hyundai Matrix GLS 1.6

Summary:

A car worth buying; both looks and performance

Faults:

So far the matrix has performed to my expectation.

Not a fast car in terms of pick up as it is a 1.2ton vehicle.

General Comments:

The car as in its original stock condition is a mild machine and performance I believe to most is just average.

However, with some DIY, like grounding, addition of magnets to fuel lie and air intake line. All these improve the performance and the fuel efficiency of the vehicle.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 26th December, 2002

14th Apr 2003, 05:18

How do you make the Matrix fuel efficient by adding magnets on the fuel and air intake line?

23rd May 2003, 22:37

It may have the performance, but.. the design is lousy.. don't you feel that it look like turtle?

2001 Hyundai Matrix GLS 1.6 petrol

Summary:

Excellent!

Faults:

Throttle/fuel sensor

- When idling, the RPM needle suddenly surges up to 2,500 rpm out of the blue! Replaced the sensors for free, of course!

Inferior paint work.

- Hyundai is known for its low-quality paint work! Unfortunately, they claim it's wear and tear, and it's not covered under warranty! Sigh!!

General Comments:

It's almost a year since I last posted the first review! And yes, about time for me to post another one!

It has served its purpose as a people, pets and multi-purpose carrier - and a superb handling and ride for its built and size.

Various DIY and minor mod enhancements do improve the performance slightly (as lugging a 1.3 tonne with a 1.6 power train is sluggish!!)!! Extremely recommended for those who are with this power train - a 1.8 would be just sufficient, otherwise the mods would be highly recommended!

Mods Done:

- Changed stock filters to K&N filter charger (www.knfilters.com)

- Changed stock ignition cables to race cables (ACESpeed)

- Changed stock plugs to IRIDIUM plugs (www.denso.co.jp).

- Changed stock steel rims to sports alloy rims (www.enkei.com)

- Added a fuel catalyst system (www.broquet.com)

More to come!! Stay tuned!!!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 2nd September, 2002

24th Sep 2002, 11:09

What is your fuel consumption?

I had mine for about a year and its doing 8-9km per liter!

That is real bad for a 1.6 auto. Any 2L car can easily do 11km/L. Already complained during servicing, but to no avail.

4th Oct 2002, 05:20

Fuel consumption is at an average of 11km/l. Depending on your driving style, fuel consumption varies from one to another.

Best Regards.

27th May 2003, 06:27

I also get very poor fuel consumption from my 1.8 CDX. I have had a similar problem with the Rev counter and a loss of power when the car hits between 2000-2500 revs. I am still trying to get the dealership to admit there is a problem with the car.

16th Dec 2010, 08:03

What is the price of this car?

2001 Hyundai Matrix GLS 1.6

Summary:

Real value for money

Faults:

So far so good.

Stock Kumho tyres are noisy. Will get rid of them as soon as I've decided on new rims.

Car flies with some minor D.I.Y. modification.

General Comments:

Cabin is very spacious.

Lacks luggage space especially for golf bags.

Matrix (or Lavita) lovers are at HMOG@yahoogroups.com

Very appealing looks.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 18th April, 2002

6th Aug 2002, 05:30

Can you elaborate on the D. I.Y side of things?

Thanks.

17th May 2003, 08:27

Car flies with some minor D.I.Y. modification.

Can you please say what are those minor D.I.Y. modification so that even I can do that on my Hyundai Matrix.

31st Oct 2003, 20:06

How long have you been using the car?

Good spacious car with multiple purpose, but how reliable is it?

Well, it might be a low-budget car, but will we pay more instead for in the long run in term of maintenance?

26th Dec 2003, 19:54

Hi, Your comments interests me. I have a matrix for 6 months now. For my car, I added an Airmax-type intake bypass, earth grounding and a K&N filter. The engine becomes very free reving and managed to pull even upto 6000 rpm. Before, struggle to touch 3500 rpm.

My problem is at around 2500 rpm, the auto gearbox seems to rattle or vibrate. If running through the rev, it is not too noticeable, But when cruising at at rev, the engine compartment vibrates. Do anyone know a cure apart from changing auto oil?

Rodney.

2001 Hyundai Matrix GLS 1.6 petrol

Summary:

Extremely great value and overall built for an MPV!

Faults:

Nothing in particular.

General Comments:

Latest model (2002) from the stables of Hyundai Motor. Recently released in Europe (featured in the Motorshow in Frankfurt), the Hyundai Matrix penetrates the MPV market with a storm!

Perfect for a family of five or young and vibrant couples who are always on the go!

A great alternative to other mini-MPVs/MPVs out there where the size isn't too small or too large.

Don't expect it to be a high-performing car - however, the 1.6cc engine comes with 107 bhp. Comes in 2 other engine capacities - 1.8 (Petrol) and 1.5 (Diesel) which are available in US/Europe market in due time.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 10th September, 2001

22nd Jan 2002, 20:37

So what is your mileage now and any more to comment at this stage on your Hyundai Matrix?