A comparison of subcompact Toyota models with outstanding fuel economy: Toyota Yaris vs Toyota Matrix.
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Toyota has earned a fine reputation as a leading manufacturer of subcompact cars, and the Yaris and the Matrix are two of its popular budget models of the year. A Toyota Yaris vs. Toyota Matrix comparison can help you decide which of the two cars is the right one for your needs.
Both are classified as subcompact hatchbacks, but they differ quite a bit in terms of price, cost of ownership, size and features. When you are ready to buy a car, consult a car-buying guide as well as online reviews for unbiased reviews and other information that can help you make the right decision.
Engine & Power
The Yaris is quite a bit smaller than the Matrix, and its engine reflects its small size. Basic and more advanced trim packages all include a 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine that produces 106 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 103 foot-pounds of torque.
Even in advanced trim packages that include a four-speed automatic transmission rather than the standard five-speed manual, the Yaris delivers impressive fuel economy ratings of 30 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.
The basic Matrix engine is a 1.8-liter inline four-cylinder model that delivers 132 horsepower at 6,000 rpm along with 128 foot-pounds of torque. It requires more fuel to deliver this power, so the entry-level Matrix model is rated at 26 mpg in the city and 32 on the highway. A more powerful 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine is also available as an option on the Matrix. Its power ratings are 158 horsepower and 162 foot-pounds of torque, and a Matrix with this engine runs 21 miles on a gallon of gasoline in the city and 29 miles per gallon on the highway.
Size & Seating Capacity
Each car seats a driver and four passengers, but the front and rear seats of the larger Matrix are more comfortable, and the Matrix provides a roomier hatchback baggage compartment as well. In fact, the Matrix holds over three cubic feet more cargo than the Yaris does.
When it comes to safety, both cars have the features you need to protect yourself and your passengers in the event of an accident. These include airbags as well as child seat anchors, stability control and traction control. Car rankings for safety are not available for either 2013 model, but past ratings from both the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety and the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration have been positive.
Driving strengths
You will not go wrong with either car, but the Yaris is truly a city car that is best for driving short distances, such as to and from work every day or to and from a commuter train station, whereas the Matrix is ideal for family highway journeys.
The basic advantages of the Yaris are:
- Higher gas mileage
- Easier to park in very small spaces
- Less expensive to purchase
The basic advantages of the Matrix are:
- Roomier
- More engine power, especially with advanced trim packages
Get local Toyota Yaris vs Toyota Matrix price quotes now!
Make your own Toyota Yaris vs. Toyota Matrix comparison by test-driving both models at a local dealer, and comparison shop to get the best price before you drive away with the Toyota hatchback that best suits your needs and driving style.