Faults:

When car was less than year old I noticed that sometimes it takes a little longer for it to start. I took it to a dealer and they said it's within specifications. I wouldn't call it a problem, more of an annoyance, but it's still there, so I've learned to deal with it.

Windshield wipers didn't turn on few times when I pulled the lever down, seems like something is wrong with the wiring around steering column, but it hasn't happened again in at least a year, so I'm not too worried about it.

Tires are wearing out quickly and need to be replaced shortly at only 35,000 miles. Toyota uses cheap tires that don't last long, and replacement tires are relatively expensive (at least in my book).

There is a strange sound coming from the engine bay, a friend of mine says that I have a lifter in one of the cylinders that needs to be adjusted. It can only be heard when hood is open, so it's not a major concern and most people would never noticed it.

Seats were covered with attractive looking cloth, but it's starting to show signs of wear. Camrys and Corollas of comparable year seem to have more durable cloth.

General Comments:

This is a car that can be called Jack of All Trades. It can haul a lot of cargo, it's reasonably comfortable for 4 people, it's easy to parallel park (although turning circle is a bit wide), it's fairly easy to service (I do all changes on my driveway without having to raise the car), it gets 30 mpg on average, and in over four years it never broke down. However there are a few little things that I feel every potential buyer should know:

1. Air conditioning is weak, you might want to think twice about buying this car if you live in Houston or Phoenix.

2. Although on paper 1.8 liter 130hp (really about 125hp) looks good, it's pretty slow due to Matrix being relatively heavy. If merging on a busy highway is a concern for you, maybe something more powerful will suit you better. Or you'll learn to use "Overdrive Off" button frequently.

3. Transmission is very smooth and accurate, but during hard acceleration it pauses for a split second, it used to kinda bother me, but I got used to it.

4. Dashboard design and layout is top notch and you'll get positive comments on it (get used to it), however driving on a sunny day with sunglasses on can be a little tricky.

5. Seats are cheap and uncomfortable (at least for me). I'm used to hard, firm seats that are supportive on a long road trip. Matrix seats are made with foam that feels fine around town, but on a highway driving I feel like I'm sitting on the pillow.

6. I'm 5'8" and I'm wishing it had more leg room, if you are 6" or taller you would be uncomfortable.

But all of the above could be counter-balanced versatility of Matrix, and if you are living outside of urban core, north of Mason-Dixon line, and you are a slim, short person looking for an efficient, reliable transportation from point A to point B this is a car for you.

Faults:

Cruise control stopped working at 50,000 haven't had it looked at yet. Shouldn't be a biggie.

The Clutch went at 30,000 miles. $900 dealer repair. B.S. First time Toyota screwed me, oh well, still love their cars.

Cheap AC Delco battery died after a year. My Toyota Echo battery (Toyota batteries) last 5 years and more.

Original tires were crappy, put some nice ones on, it's worth it.

General Comments:

You can't buy a better new car for $19,000. The six speed XRS is very fast and still gets 30-35 mpg. It takes hills with ease, the engine winds way up to 9,000 rpms and eats it up. With a better clutch this thing would have a very fast stock 0-60 and 1/4 mile. Once the clutch is engaged, hit the gas... and you're gone! It's got V-8, muscle car, throw your head back, acceleration with a gas saving 4 cyl. engine. It's got power everything, 6 speaker, cd radio, 17" wheels, great suspension, hugs corners, yet takes bumps. Feels solid at 90 mph passing someone on the interstate in the wind. Uses premium gas, but performs! Well built, sturdy interior with AC plug ins, and storage bins. Short shifter is nice also. Seats are a bit spartan, sport car type, but not uncomfortable on trips. Rear seats fold down for almost pickup-like cargo space. I have the silver color with 17" Toyota alloy wheels and it looks so great!

So, so fun to drive... With the 6 gears and the very high rpm range of the engine, you have a lot of options to get power out of the drive train at any speed.

Only complaint is the clutch, too soft, first plate wore out prematurely. I drive the same clutch for 150,000 miles on all my cars! Toyota was really sh%&&y about it too. No coverage, no help, wear and tear item they say. At 30,000 miles? After I griped enough the dealer finally offered some free maintenance...Bull! The new clutch is still too soft, I'll get a good stiff after market racing clutch next time. Got to keep this car for the duration. It's such a great blend of fun, performance, utility, dependability and thrift!