well-known rivals:
- xD Scion.
- Chevrolet Vibe.
- Lexus Matrix.
- Nissan Yaris.
- a Scion iM.
In This Article...
Are the Toyota Matrix and Pontiac Vibe the same vehicle?
Many buyers still find two compact automobiles that have been discontinued for some time to be appealing options, particularly small families on a budget who don’t require anything difficult but need something convenient.
Although they compare favorably to a number of current sub-compact SUVs, the Pontiac Vibe and Toyota Matrix do have an appealing design, dependable and efficient engines, a flexible interior, and a high level of equipment.
Is one preferable to the other? They share so many characteristics since they were jointly developed by Toyota and General Motors, so no, really. They could even be considered non-identical twins.
Even if their bodies are slightly different, the interior is identicalwith the exception of the emblem on the steering wheel and a few accessories, of course! Driving is not made more difficult by their high front seatsin fact, it improves visibilityand their back seat offers plenty of space. Another point worth noticing is that the trunk floor is entirely made of plastic, making cleanup a breeze.
By the way, the Vibe was available in basic, GT, and AWD models, whereas the Matrix was commonly found in basic, XR, XRS, and AWD variations. The 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine in the simplest model produced 132 HP, while the 2.4-liter 4-cylinder in the most advanced models produced 158 HP. Both all-wheel-drive systems were available as options.
Let’s not forget that the Matrix was a proudly Canadian product built in the Cambridge facility in Ontario, whereas the Vibe was put together in the NUMI plant in Fremont, California, despite the fact that they are two mechanically similar vehicles. But don’t worry, the job quality at these two plants was rated extremely well.
The Vibe is now sold for less money than the Matrix because Pontiac’s name and reputation are no longer as well-known. But even though some people continue to have this opinion, the first was actually made just as well as the second. Both cars are in excellent condition and have passed an inspection, so you can confidently choose between them.
Why was Matrix discontinued by Toyota?
Due to dismal sales, Toyota has removed the Matrix from its lineup for 2014. A Toyota executive admitted to Edmunds that the vehicle had an identity crisis. However, Toyota is looking into the prospect of introducing a five-door hatchback to the Corolla lineup.
Corolla vs. Toyota Matrix comparison
Without a doubt, Toyota automobiles have excelled throughout the years thanks to fantastic innovations that keep customers interested with each new vehicle or model introduced.
When combined with the accessibility of affordable components and expert labor, the low price point with outstanding functionality and reliability is a strong selling point for the Toyota brand. As a result, it’s no surprise that Toyotas are frequently seen on public highways and in private garages.
But without a doubt, the Corolla and the Matrix are the two most recognizable, reliable, and effective models in the lineup of cars produced by Toyota.
With remarkable fuel efficiency and resale value, they introduced the Toyota Corolla and Matrix.
The Corolla and Matrix from Toyota are frequently disputed as being the same vehicle. Although there are many parallels between the two cars, there aren’t many distinctions either.
The Corolla’s hatchback counterpart, the Matrix, has larger cargo room than the Corolla.
They share the same engine, are each practical, dependable, affordable, simple to maintain, and have excellent fuel economy.
To assist you better comprehend these cars’ similarities and differences, let’s go deeper into their specifications.
Is the Toyota Matrix a trustworthy vehicle?
Good dependability ratings have been given to the Toyota Matrix. The Matrix received a strong 4.0 out of 5.0 rating from RepairPal. The Matrix received a comparable 4 out of 5 score from J.D. Power. The fact that the Matrix is essentially a Toyota Corolla with a bigger trunk may be responsible for its dependability.
The Toyota Matrix has been retired, right?
In 2014, Toyota stopped production of the Matrix. You may still rely on Toyota Care Centers to provide excellent service if you currently possess a Matrix. In the interim, we encourage you to look at the selection of new and Certified Used Toyota vehicles.
What is the expected lifespan of the Toyota Matrix?
The absolute most dependable engine ever created. A Matrix should last well over 300k miles if the maintenance regimen was followed from the beginning.
Are Toyota engines present in all Pontiac Vibes?
This Pontiac hatchback was jointly produced by General Motors and Toyota and had two alternative engine options: the 1.8L 1ZZ-FE and the 2ZZ-GE, both of which are from the Toyota ZZ Series.
With a new range of engine options and a revamped body, the Vibe launched its second generation in 2009. A motor from the Toyota ZR Series or a different motor from the Toyota AZ Series might be selected by customers.
Only one year later, in 2010, GM announced that the whole Pontiac brand would be discontinued. Along with the Pontiac ship, the Vibe and its robust Toyota motor perished.
Can you trust a Pontiac Vibe?
Outside of the years you should avoid it, the Pontiac Vibe is neither especially reliable nor unreliable overall. You really just need to steer clear of the 2003 and 2009 versions given a 7-year run, and the other models should be fairly consistent if you choose to purchase them used.
However, all Pontiac Vibe model years are notorious for having a little engine and transmission irregularity, which can result in costly repairs or a little lower lifespan than that of comparable cars.
You’re looking to buy a used car, then. We have already prepared a list of crucial inquiries to make while purchasing a secondhand car.
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What is the Toyota Matrix’s most frequent issue?
The engine issue is one of its most serious problems. Numerous owners have reported hearing ticking or rattling noises emanating from the engine as well as excessive oil use. The Matrix engine simply gave out in the end. According to reports, this feared engine breakdown occurs at about 103,300 miles and costs $3,400 to fix.
Has the Toyota Matrix experienced transmission issues?
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Hello to Everyone. My understanding is that the transmission and engine of the Toyota Matrix, Toyota Corolla, and Pontiac Vibe are identical. Please be warned that these cars have a major transmission issue.
It appears that a lot of Matrix owners are experiencing issues with a bad transmission bearing, which forces an early replacement of the transmission. I think the Pontiac Vibe and Toyota Corolla models might also be affected by this.
Our 2004 Toyota Matrix’s five-speed manual transmission needed to be replaced at 98,000 miles for a total of $3,100. There are other affected models besides the 2004, but I’m not sure which ones. I wrote the president of Toyota Motor Corp. North America in a certified letter. I was informed that I would not be compensated because there is no recall.
Before the affected owners’ lives are in risk due to an unexpected car breakdown on a 70 mph highway, it is critical to let them know about the issue. I experienced what happened.
There have been many cases of 5-speed Toyota Matrix gearbox failures because of faulty transmission bearings. A manual transmission shouldn’t need to be changed after 98,000 miles, in my opinion. It has occurred for some car owners at lower mileage. The regional manager of the repair facility I took it to said he had encountered this issue before and anticipates a recall. Toyota is not currently offering owners of Matrix compensation for this costly flaw.
Does the Toyota Matrix use little fuel?
For instance, the 2007 4 Cyl. Wagon 5D 2WD gets a combined gas economy of 33.0 miles per gallon, whereas the 2013 Wagon 5D S AWD 4 Cyl. trim model has a combined gas mileage of 23.0 miles per gallon (7.2 liters per 100 km) (10.4 liters per 100 km).
Depending on the trim and model year, the Toyota Matrix can achieve a city fuel economy of 7.8 miles per gallon (7.8 liters per 100 km) to 11.8 miles per gallon (11.8 liters per 100 km) and a highway fuel economy of 26 miles per gallon (6.5 liters per 100 km) to 36 miles per gallon (9.0 liters per 100 km).
For hybrid automobiles, the gas mileage displayed is the miles per gallon equivalent.
What kind of engine powers a Toyota Matrix?
The 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that powers the basic Matrix is still present, but it has been modified to provide additional horsepower and torque. The Matrix is still available with a four-speed automatic or a five-speed manual transmission. A 158-horsepower, 2.4-liter four is available in the new trim levels S and XRS.
In a Toyota Matrix, is sleeping possible?
Lexus Matrix (2003 – 2014) The Matrix, which was sold from 2003 to 2014, has some distinctive internal features that make it a great option for sleeping in. There is a lengthy, flat area to lay down with few ridges and bumps when the front passenger seat and the back seat are both folded down.
Can a Toyota Matrix be modified?
The Toyota Matrix has many popular modifications. Although performance improvements are nothing new, there are several important foundational elements to take into account to guarantee you unlock your vehicle’s full potential. Here are a few worthwhile modifications for your car’s handling and horsepower.
Is driving the Toyota Matrix enjoyable?
If you treat it well, the Toyota Matrix is a sturdy, durable, adaptable, and affordable vehicle that will serve you well for many years. I adore the way it looks and handles! Driving this automobile is so enjoyable you forget it’s a practical vehicle!
Is it simple to maintain a Toyota Matrix?
The Matrix is a straightforward, dependable wagon overall. It’s challenging to imagine another car that will be equally useful and fuel-efficient simultaneously. With proper care, The Matrix can endure a very long time. You might also think about the Pontiac Vibe, which is the mechanical twin of the Toyota Matrix. Although it is smaller, the Honda Fit is still a solid option for a fuel-efficient vehicle with usable storage capacity. The Fit is trustworthy as well.
What to look for when purchasing a used Toyota Matrix: Check the oil level while evaluating a used Toyota Matrix; a low oil level may be a sign that the engine uses oil. Keep an eye out for engine sounds. Avoid the automobile if the engine starts making a loud rattling noise or if smoke comes out of the exhaust. Watch out for manual transmission noises during the test drive; there are many complaints concerning manual gearbox issues.
How frequently should you replace your oil? Toyota advises oil changes every 5,000 miles or every six months, whichever comes first. We advise changing your oil every 3,500 to 4,000 miles if you want to keep your engine in good condition for a longer period of time and given that the 1.8L engine tends to consume some oil on a regular basis. Regularly checking the engine oil level is also a good idea. The recommended oil viscosity is SAE 5W-30.
How frequently should automatic transmission fluid be changed? Fluid for automatic transmissions needs to be checked frequently and changed when it gets unclean. Learn how to examine the fluid in an automatic transmission.
The Toyota Matrix is a lightweight vehicle; you might wish to install winter tires if you want better traction on icy roads.