The 2009 Toyota Matrix is a sporty crossover with excellent gas mileage. Matrix maintains a high “fun-to-drive” element while adding practical safety options such as all-wheel drive. Together, these make Matrix an ideal family car!

The 2009 Toyota Matrix gets its first redesign since its introduction in 2003. A sporty new exterior design and interior improvements increase comfort and fun while new engines make the Matrix a mileage leader in its class. The standard 1.8-liter engine produces 132 hp and 128 lb/ft of torque with an estimated fuel economy of 26/32 city/highway with the five-speed manual and 25/31 with the automatic. An optional 2.4-liter with five-speed automatic produces 158 hp and 162 lb/ft of torque and is rated at 21/29 city/highway.

Styled more like a sportscar than a crossover, the Matrix's new bumper and grille treatments visually lower the car while the angled hood and windshield conspire with thicker C-pillars to project a more speedy shape. With its front spoiler, rear underbody diffuser, top deck spoiler and 18-inch wheels, the range-topping XRS model is a standout among prosaic, utility-oriented crossovers. “There is something undeniably hip and forward thinking about the Matrix's aggressive rake and angular body lines,” observes the reviewer for MSN.com.

Two new four-cylinder engines supply power for 2009. The 1.8-liter mill features Toyota's Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence), which enhances engine performance by optimizing both intake- and exhaust-cam timing. This also puts most of the torque in the engine’s power band for good acceleration and safe passing.

For those who want more, Toyota offers the Matrix S and XRS with the 2.4-liter four-cylinder from the Camry and Scion tC/xB teamed with a four-speed automatic. The 2.4-liter employs VVT-i and engine management programming to achieve its 158 hp. The “performance” Matrix comes with a five-speed manual. A five-speed automatic with Sport Shift and Uphill Start modes is optional.

All-wheel drive (AWD), not available in recent model years, is back and available on the Matrix S equipped with the 2.4-liter engine and four-speed automatic. The AWD system uses active torque control, which constantly monitors the available traction using readings sent from sensors on each wheel. The system then distributes torque accordingly. Under ideal road conditions, the setup is predominantly front-wheel drive. When the surface causes slipping, the system starts proportioning torque to the rear wheels through an electromagnetic coupler and rear differential.

Standard safety features include six airbags and active head restraints. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is optional and strongly recommended. ESC helps the driver recover from skids that would otherwise result in a loss of control and a possible accident.

The 2009 Matrix cockpit received a full makeover aimed at enhancing comfort while retaining utility. The new color scheme features charcoal-tone or two-tone charcoal and silver. The front seats are all new and offer more lateral support while the rear bench folds down to create the Matrix's 61.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo area. There is ample room for five and all their stuff. The contoured center panel favors the driver for distraction-free control. It houses the stereo/navigation components and HVAC controls, as well as the shifter. All Matrix audio systems are wired for MP3 playback. The optional high-power JBL audio system also adds Bluetooth connectivity. The console-mounted stick shift is easy to manipulate, functioning no differently than a conventionally placed shifter. The binocular-style tach and speedometer gauges with bright-white backlighting make for a cool instrument cluster.

The 2009 Matrix makes good on the promise its sporty exterior makes. The overall feeling is one of substance and stability, a good thing in a crossover. “The XRS's grippy 215/45R18 tires, MacPherson strut/double wishbone suspension and four-wheel ventilated disc brakes fight a good fight on more challenging roads,” observed the test driver at MSN.com.

The MSRP on the base 2009 Toyota Matrix with the five-speed transmission is just $16,910, a bargain for such a versatile and high-quality compact crossover. The AWD Matrix has a base MSRP of $19,380. The Matrix XRS lists for $22,819. Now that you know how affordable the 2009 Toyota Matrix is, why not drop by for a closer inspection and test drive? We think you’ll find the Matrix experience enjoyable.