The 4 door 2007 Toyota Matrix compact wagon comes in a base and XR trim level. Both models offer a 1.8 liter 4 cylinder 126 hp engine which develops 122 lb.-ft. torque @4200 rpm. They are outfitted with a 5-speed manual transmission standard, or a 4-speed automatic optionally. The new Matrix is a combination of a practical station wagon and a sporty compact SUV.

Both models come with daytime running halogen headlamps and 16 inch steel wheels standard. The Matrix S offers a moonroof, intermittent rear wipers, and foglamps. The interior of the 2007 Matrix boasts ample head room and 4 passenger comfort. Small on the outside, spacious on the inside, the Matrix has surprisingly abundant cargo space. Some of the optional packages available on the Matrix include: power windows, power door locks, and remote keyless entry. Other option packages include: intermittent rear window wipers, ABS, cruise control, side airbags, and side curtain airbags.

Every 2007 Toyota Matrix comes with a seat mounted side-impact airbag, front and rear crumple zones, and high tensile strength steel body panels. For the more adventuresome, Matrix can be outfitted with four-wheel drive, and four-wheel ABS. Handling in the new Matrix seemed a bit top-heavy with an appreciable amount of lean in the turns. Power was adequate but not pulse quickening. The Matrix seems to have conquered its noise problem with additional dampening of engine sound and better under-body insulation.

Toyota's hope for a youth market appeal in the Matrix has not come to fruition as it seems to have settled into a mediocre market share. It is still an admirable vehicle however, with respectable gas mileage specs (29 mpg city, 34 mpg highway). We like the 2007 Matrix for its daring sheet metal and hatchback ingenuity. We give it a B+.