Showing posts with label 2010. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2010. Show all posts
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
2010 Nissan Leaf Cars pictures gallery and features reviews
2010 Nissan Leaf Cars pictures gallery and features reviews
Nissan Europe have announced the pricing structure for the European rollout of the 2011 Nissan Leaf. The Leaf car has received a huge number of reservations in the U.S already and will be launched in Europe in three stages.
Nissan Europe have announced the pricing structure for the European rollout of the 2011 Nissan Leaf. The Leaf car has received a huge number of reservations in the U.S already and will be launched in Europe in three stages.
Monday, May 20, 2013
Toyota Avalon 2010 Review One Of America’s Finest And Safest Full Sized Sedans
Toyota Avalon 2010 Review - Toyota Avalon 2010 is certainly extraordinary in the twilight moments out of a generation, but still stay within a point of reference necessary for the specific type. Since its release in concrete mid-1990s, with the Toyota Avalon was real full-size keys. Also offers an indoor space saving, numerous luxury properties, generally good performance, good crash test scores, the fuel economy of cash and also really conscious sophisticated vehicle, usually Avalon comes with is really ensured by the fact that competitors were likely to face view. In general, the 2010 Toyota Avalon is considered very impressive, stable, and two large car did, and as developed as the roads of America. The specific 2010 Toyota Avalon, who scored big final results of testing many of the street and therefore costs a great way to measure large car. Actual Avalon is the absolute truth of a beautiful car that could go inside unnoticed. The dynamic style specific and therefore will not manoeuvreing special too excited, but it is okay for most people.
Overall, the 2010 Toyota Avalon is undoubtedly available in three trim levels, XL, XLS and Limited. It really is just a choice of 3.5-liter V6 engine that makes 268-hp and 248 lb-ft of torque. It also comes only with 6-speed automatic transmission, which may also be possible to move manually. Avalon has also recorded a track from 0-60 mph in 7.1 seconds. Not surprisingly, the individual in 2010 Toyota Avalon is actually a little more sound on the main road. Avalon is certainly delicate, soft, elegant and more the point, the idea of suspending the tender many causes float over ground contours and softer direction tends to make sense really designed for a luxury-but-not-sports . In general, the direction of Avalon is almost certainly too low within the meaning of sport, but not the best, reacts to driver input is also a way of decent fabric. Faster is definitely enjoyable on many levels and so typical of the ability to change gears manually is certainly one of the best special manumatic the actual segment. Critics have strong brakes, but notes that the trough of typical car very hard when braking hard.Inside, and also, it seems that although the brand new style Toyota Avalon much more elegant and also strengthened. The outdoor sports a light clear, elegant, and so traditional. For most commentators see in particular Toyota Avalon wonderful, but good, which is associated with a number describing the special appearance as stylish. The special meaning Toyota Avalon interior is elegant and attractive if power to his ardent and visible format Optitron ergonomic control and therefore also of high quality components. Generally, the interior is really valuable because there will be any Lexus. And now, incredibly, and also an ergonomically comfortable and a great, handles located. Typically, design is typically a dash and center console also plays a bit more typical of the furniture together, but I have more than one flight. The front seats are large and real as well as accommodating. Generally, people will definitely back seat, almost as much area of the front seat people. Subscribe walking is definitely in abundance, if only full-sized car standards, and then usually rear seats offer from a supine position back, it gives people, to finally reach out to travel.
Sunday, May 19, 2013
Citroen DS High Rider 2010 Review A Modern Car With a New Full Hybrid Powertrain Diesel
Citroen DS High Rider 2010 Review - Citroen does not offer even the first steps to achieve a completely new concept that can reveal only potentially, in particular, announced at the Geneva Motor Show. DS HIGH RIDER is actually the second in particular the idea that the revolutionary Citroën DS and, in addition to a character style characteristic. Without a ban on a regular basis are usually more interesting coupe, DS HIGH RIDER also surprising that, in particular the radical vision of creating new aerodynamic volume with good volumes internal action dynamic, complex design and the perfect complement to good quality.
Presented information concerning the transaction manoeuvreing rewarding path dynamic, DS HIGH RIDER is simply to respect the general environment, and proceeded to "diesel-powered full hybrid, which strengthens the HDi DPF * engine below, in particular, the bonnet electric motor is placed particular reference to the rear deck. In particular, the hybrid platform thanks to DS HIGH RIDER to join the actual efficiency of fuel and also the strength of HDi diesel in particular with reference to the ecological benefits and the new generation of e- ZEV (Zero Emission Laughs).
Unlike four-seat court, with its long-term model, the base, the individual DS HIGH RIDER is very rational and so muscular. HIGH RIDER DS is really an expression of quality cars, and so the style - exemplified by its simple and bright gold paint brushed chrome also accentuate the flowing lines of the car. The roof is very special, which comes in layers with the truth, a textile coating material - offers a touch of high quality.
Honda Fit 2010 Review Offers The Most Characteristic Called Magic Seat
Honda Fit 2010 Review - also launched several years ago many as gas prices began to accelerate toward the sky, the current Honda knows it now seems as happy as a little piece of self-prophecy. Overall, the 2010 suit is actually a little different to the original, including the type of 2009, mostly because he has years was significantly redesigned know. This product serves as Hondas entry level, but carries a Honda model that describes how intensely super-forward aero. Although this series of incredible tailgate entry level is certainly a little higher than most of its rivals, usually the best time to provide an adequate supply of features, usability and, moreover, some of which have a Honda excellent resale value. The current 2010 Honda is really a match winner is most aspects. This offers real flexibility in the interior, by far, simply for who manoeuvreing dynamics are excellent, too. This is really a perennial also generally preferred to push the car and as consumers, also offers a price and its utility as a result of inside and fun to drive and fuel-door lot 5. Intended in particular for small sedan shoppers, as well as car fanatics dreamers who need something works, Honda Match is simply the biggest real choice there.
Actual Honda Suit is not only a sports car but the car does not quite satisfactory for its quality. 2010 Honda typically Suit is certainly available in two trim levels: base and Sport. Many of the games are usually armed with a common 1.5 liters 4-cylinder engine that produces 117 hp and 106 pounds-feet torque. Even a 5-speed manual transmission is very typical and then the 5-speed automatic transmission is considered differently. Sport at a particular cut, the actual type of automatic, which is to manage the shift knob on the steering wheel is equipped with the paddle. Reviewers mostly agree that it is usually a typical manual offers usually dress a sporty look, but the actual Suit Sports Cars and Dual-Mode System Paddle Shifter, of course, offers a more comfortable car. Dress ranges from simple speeding usually manual transmission car could accelerate the start of 0-60 mph in 8.9 seconds, but this usually requires an automatic type in 11.0 seconds and usually reach the same amount. Unlike other small cars, Honda Meet 2010 in particular is certainly just fun to drive. testers and seems to agree that, normally Match presents a fantastic car, high quality, although they reported the actual style of sports also offers easier to manage not belong to a particular base. types of sports have become real effect steering and sharp when both versions are quite agile because of their small size.
Most of the reviews are not great car tax specifically for measurement is usually looks, but its design is simply trying to make a real match, and so effective. As a general rule, in particular, seems to correspond to the previous generation, but there is also a bit longer, gradually sloping nose. saloon model of this perfect place much cargo, so that typically the back. Suit is usually large, especially smaller the vehicles interior and, in addition to redesigning and improving the actual legs back seat and cargo too. Although the current Honda Fit interior is certainly a bit obscured by simply full of hard plastic and pieces of fabric so insignificant, this is simply not among the princes are held together by type. The particular, tends to fill lower-quality components that comes with its unique variety of common and diverse features, including several that one might suppose to look into a lot of car elegant. Stream-lined reference to the outside, but within a very spacious, the book seems to demand particular cause a variety of entry-level cars with its other internal and multi-such high levels of achievement. There is plenty of room in front so the back legs, but usually in the back seat is certainly modest. The seats are comfortable and very encouraging, back and forth accordingly, so that people can cut to make room for the legs, if they include over his verse. Before the first real, there really enough room designed for people shorter and the same, but the legs is quite certain that very small differences for most drivers. Back up to passengers is actually quite remarkable that for a simple sedan, two adults can simply return the car before a long trip without complaint. Its impressive how much space is certainly back in like a little trip. Typically Follows department shinthe freight. The backpack straps "Magic Seat" could choose to be configured as one of the top variety of means, and therefore it is also a key element of the typical attraction Fit. This could make three different ways before reaching this end up being able to match the load of some different measurement configurations.
Toyota Passo And The Toyota Passo Hana 2010 Toyota Motor Corporation TMC Has Announced The Launch Of The Redesigned “Passo” Compact Hatchback In Japan
Toyota Passo and Toyota Passo + Hana 2010 - Member and especially the second generation step are generally much more agile around the streamlined body, great interior, and therefore the type of fuel leading1 know-how, and in addition to environmental activities generally prefer the first generation of Passo produced in June 2004 with the actual brand new car, Which provides for a contribution, particularly as the design entirely by female buyers in Japan. This development is particularly the army are usually the first step and shows the level of ongoing projects TMC in the style of cars to consumers needs.
In general, the car is available in two different styles of products, in particular the simple and modest as well as "Step", which is usually much the impression of certainty and familiarity, and in particular as well as "Step + Hana you can breathe the real charm needs a strong impression. The distinctive style, as one of 11 colors available all over the body, creating a wide range, which can guide the selection is particularly suited to express individuality.Most guys take a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with the two typical engine 1KR-FE 1.0-liter engine as the all-new 1.3-liter 1NR-FE as the special system of dual VVT Smart-valve, which gives a smoother, more comfortable, more stable vehicle. These cars are produced in a fire in the system of Eco-Vehicle Assessment TMC, an authentic, comprehensive system of environmental assessment that sets goals in only begins to actually develop the car, to support reduction of adverse environmental factors, like, like the balanced individual reduction of CO2 emissions.
Saturday, May 18, 2013
2010 Mitsubishi I Review A Car For Commuting Short Distances At Low Speed
2010 Mitsubishi i Review - including Mitsubishi i is simply a device for the effective area available for Kei-car popular in the host partner in the Japanese market. As in the micro-General of France, especially keijidosha cars must meet strict limits on the measure, the engine capacity and therefore the force, which usually make them eligible for tax relief. It is certainly also a kind of urban passenger vehicle - built to be able to travel at a speed of only low in congested areas and other places to choose to park at all. There has been talk lately that Mitsubishi can take just a typical car like the Mitsubishi i 2010 for the individual United States, which can be a draft here, especially for Clever Fortwo still struggling to be able to see a hearing real space while Honda Meet offers a particularly bright and well, something we associate with Japanese cars really a bit smaller, a value that is very difficult to enforce.
Currently, the regulations limit Kei vehicles, for which the engines are not just over 660cc, and then 63 horsepower. This Mitsubishi 3B20 659cc inline-3 will be only 63 hp 6000 rpm, and then 69 pounds feet torque. To be there, especially the engine features variable valve timing, as the turbocharger and the technique of intermediate cooling. Our range of test vehicles, which have a negligible impact, so that typically in March, thanks to the four-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive is also different. Mitsubishi admits it is typically present in the engine adapts to the real model of the United States would also be true that I am finally able to come to this country. One solution could eventually usually 1.0-liter inline-3, only the Mitsubishi to provide real Clever Fortwo.With its low power and ethos as high, typically 2010 Mitsubishi i is certainly a car for short distances on the low. And therefore, when assessed using only this type of measurement, it is remarkably qualified. Is associated with particularly different from the real Well, not really a car that comes with a radius sharper than running. There are no cars over there just easier for the park. The special "AWD system is actually a pretty easy configuration of the circumstance that creates a viscous center differential to send power to be able to do the front wheels when the rears special individuals begin to slip. It is designed to give the car some more driving pleasure whatever the weather, but we do not find the following offer particular produce Go to the place of the main U.S. market for all of least initially.
2010 Nissan Sentra SE R Review One Of The Largest Entries In Its Class
2010 Nissan Sentra SE-R Review - Overall, the Nissan Sentra comes with real long bridesmaid American C-segment. Some think about it so decided to be the best in its class, but this will probably end up being really a stretch of the second smallest car care Nissans head of the hold of the specific category. In particular, before the current Sentra was not real fast, it was generally the most beautiful and absolutely perfect not to attend the real environment, but overall the car down price deals in silence long to be able to sell enough to be able to maintain the real image of Nissan.
Many types Sentra receive updates at the end of 2010, with adjustments to the headlights and taillights, in fact, marks a new grille and the grille and also elsewhere, get a MSRP. Looking only to the particular 2010 Nissan Sentra SE-R and surprised us immediately obtained simply amazing in its scale - especially its height and length elsewhere. This amazing "compact" car is considered one of the most widely entries in its category. Nissan plans to implement some more clues SE-R inside the cabin in general, where a pair of leather buckets waiting for front seat passengers. In general, the thrones are surprisingly comfortable and better armed, including the Sentra get a much more elegant.Dölling out 177 horses and 172 pound-feet of torque, so its full 2.5-liter four-cylinder, in particular SE-R has sufficient strength to be able to push the 3115 pound car, but this was never an agreement on compensation with our blood for cooking - really more temperature region. Typically, 2.5-liter mill to give a speeding past, which is also slightly better than what I really hope in, C-segment car, but this does not sound or, alternatively, to really feel the model notice, and in addition to real SE-R XTronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) dashes any hope manoeuvreing excited.
Acura TSX 2010 Review A “Fun To Drive” Vehicle At An Affordable Price
Acura TSX 2010 Review - The new 2010 Acura TSX sumptuous car comes with truly a perfect mixture of includes to get owners who else seek an elegant commuter needed for around-town manoeuvreing. Typically the TSX offers for a great worth available for buyers searching an low-priced quality car. The particular TSX’s large plus versus the most of its rivals can simply come to be summed up within also a word of the fact that truly a premium-brand marketer just like Acura will never usage: Worth. Reviewers mainly reward its high-quality cabin as well as long listing of common characteristics. The particular automobile presents top-notch components good quality, which includes that a exceptionally striking ELS 10-speaker surround sound system which often is really part of typically the Technology Package. That comes with the particular car-buying world moving in order for even more valuable engines, Acura seemed to be able to now have truly a winner together with the particular base TSX and as a consequence its nice vehicle.
The FWD TSX is definitely obtainable along with truly a option of 2 engines. The particular 2.4liter I4 that will would make 201-hp and 170lb-ft of torque while the particular 3.5liter V6 creates 280-hp and 254lb-ft of torque. The actual I4 is available associated with for a option of manual or perhaps automatic transmission, while typically the V6 will come that comes with an automatic. The most within the particular auto press are satisfied together with the particular V6’s awesome speeding. The actual vehicle is definitely surely instant, the actual I4 associated with typically the manual at just an unimpressive 7.7 secs needed for the particular 0-60-mph while typically the V6 reached 0-60 mph around 6.5 secs. The actual great thing about typically the I4 TSX is actually its comfy vehicle. Typically the remarkable handling arrives at just the particular price of vehicle ease. Typically the 2010 Acura TSX handles extremely well within firm twists and consequently becomes even regardless of its extra excess weight. This particular premium small carves edges associated with grippy assurance and also tiny entire body lean.
The particular TSX retains its signature striking chrome grille and furthermore flared fenders, which usually accent typically the TSX’s huge stance. Typically the TSX does offer several sharper lines and so also a bigger chrome grille. The particular interior of typically the 2010 Acura TSX is definitely that a most desired among reviewers as this is considered to be overflowing together with standard characteristics and also high good quality components. The particular comfy, roomy, and furthermore extremely well-equipped interior is really one of typically the TSX’s more powerful matches. The particular seats remain large and as well comfortable. The actual front seats are encouraging, associated with sufficient part bolstering needed for quite rambunctious motoring on the twisty driveways. Typically the back seat’s generous thigh assist, calming seatback position and furthermore large pull-down center armrest present ease in order for those within back. Though the particular trunk of typically the 2010 Acura TSX is simply a little tinier more than what is really typical available for typically the category, reviewers still point out there’s good cargo room. Huge trunk opening helps associated with loading big also clumsy items.
Monday, May 13, 2013
2010 Mercedes Benz SL63 AMG
Slotting above the mere SL 63 AMG, the SL 65 features a 6.0-liter V12 engine that pumps out an astounding 604 horsepower.Even more impressive is the 738 lb-ft. of torque, a combination that makes this two-door Benz the perfect answer for those in search of excess.
Because of all this torque and power, the SL 65 makes due with Mercedes ultra-stout five-speed automatic transmission, rather than the six or seven-speed transmissions that seem de rigueur in high performance cars today. Still, Mercedes-Benz estimates that the SL 65 will hit 62 miles per hour in 4.2 seconds.
The SL 65 features the same new styling that dresses up the rest of the latest SL roadster lineup. Rounded dual headlamps are out, replaced by angular bi-Xenon lamps that Mercedes says are more efficient and powerful than LEDs. With a black background to the lamps and a simplified grill, the SLs face is substantially changed with the facelifted model.
The SL chassis uses a fully independent, double-control-arm front suspension and the standard Mercedes-Benz five-link rear suspension. All SL models come with second-generation Active Body Control (ABC), the Mercedes-Benz active-suspension technology that attempts to eliminate body roll in cornering, squat under acceleration and dive during braking.
Unique to the AMG variants is a highly aggressive bodykit that features front and rear diffusers and multiple vents to cool both the motor and the massive brakes. Standard wheels are 19-inch AMG staggered-width alloy wheels -- 8.5 and 9.5 inches wide -- fitted with 255/35R19 (front) and 285/30R19 (rear) tires. The wheels feature triple-spoke styling and a titanium grey finish.
The AMG treatment also includes a lowered and stiffened suspension and a limited-slip rear differential.
Finished in nappa leather and genuine carbon fiber, the interior features standard AMG sport seats, an AMG three-spoke steering wheel and a sport instrument cluster with red tach and speedometer needles that swing to the max position and back whenever the ignition is turned on.
The SL 65, like all SLs, features a folding metal roof. A glass panorama roof remains an option.
The following is a performance-capsule review of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG. It is based on our analysis of 9 published reviews and test drives.
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL63 is powerful, exclusive and far too expensive for most people to ever consider.
The Bottom Line
The 2010 SL63 AMG is engineered for folks who demand cars that are bold, powerful, luxurious and crazy expensive. They’re not practical, but neither are people who shop in this class. If you’re in the market for a vehicle like this, count your lucky stars -- but also consider a Porsche 911 Turbo. It features 18 less horsepower than the SL63; but has a top speed of 194 mph, blasts from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds (that’s more than one second faster than the Benz) and provides more thrilling handling dynamics. Starting at $132,800, the 911 Turbo is also $6,250 cheaper.Like the SL63 AMG, but want something even more exclusive? Check out the SL65 AMG. It features a mind-blowing 604-horsepower V12 engine and costs about $60,000 more. Just don’t be surprised if driving it makes you enemies.
Performance Dynamics
Test drivers report that the 2010 SL63 AMG is an amazing performer -- with plenty of power, speed, agility and throttle noise to intimidate its high-performance super luxury competitors.Performance Dynamics
Test drivers report that the 2010 SL63 AMG is an amazing performer -- with plenty of power, speed, agility and throttle noise to intimidate its high-performance super luxury competitors.The SL63 AMG is equipped with a 6.3-liter V8 engine that generates 518 horsepower at 6,800 rpm and 465 pound-feet of torque at 5,200 rpm. An AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission is standard. According to Mercedes-Benz, the SL63 AMG has a top speed of 155 mph and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds. The EPA has not yet rated the 2010 model, but reports that the highly-similar 2009 model nets a city/highway fuel economy of 12/19 mpg.
The rear-wheel-drive SL63 AMG features rack-and-pinion power steering and a sports suspension system with Active Body Control (ABC). Also standard is a high-performance AMG braking system with anti-lock brakes, Brake Assist, and an Electronic Stability Program (ESP) that enhances stability in adverse driving conditions by selectively applying brakes and reducing engine torque.
Sunday, May 12, 2013
2010 Chevrolet Cobalt
The compact Cobalt family competes in a tough segment, pitted against bestsellers like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. Offered in three trim levels for 2010 (the four-door SS has been dropped), the Cobalt’s strengths are a solid structure, lots of features, and good mileage.
Highs
Sturdy architecture, all-day seat comfort, Bluetooth phone connectivity, radios with iPod-compatible USB ports.Lows
Forgettable styling, so-so power, asthmatic exhaust note, four-speed automatic.Whats New
Introduced for 2005; SS sedan dropped, trim tweaks.Behind The Wheel
The Cobalt’s unibody is stiffer than many, yielding surprisingly good handling and a pleasant ride. Avoid the automatic option.
Friday, May 10, 2013
2010 Toyota Matrix
The 2010 Toyota Matrix is esstially a tall hatchback version of Corolla thesedan; though its shorter and a bit easier to park, it has an interior thats more easily reconfigured for larger cargo items. Sometimes called the Toyota Corolla Matrix, it comes with all the qualities that make the Corolla sedan appealing, including an affordable price, good fuel economy, and a reasonably comfortable ride. For 2010, the Matrix jumps up with respect to safety, with electronic stability newly standard on the model line.
With its recent redesign, as an early 2009 model, the Matrix picked up a lower, sportier stance, yet retained similar proportions to the previous version. Overall, it flows a little more, thanks to a more contoured roofline and a number of sculpted details. The seating position is a little lower, and interior styling has been given more matte-metallic trim, though the overall effect is simple and unmistakably.Whats New for 2010
After a redesign last year, the 2010 Toyota Matrix is unchanged except for the notable addition of standard stability control.Introduction
The Corolla-based 2010 Toyota Matrix hatchback reminds us that the folks at Toyota can still make a darned good small car when they put their minds to it. Weve been underwhelmed by the latest Corolla, to put it mildly, but its Matrix cousin is a thoroughly competent effort. Its certainly no hot rod, but were pretty sure most compact hatchback or wagon buyers care more about practicality than performance. And for them, the 2010 Matrix is one of the most compelling choices in this segment.In many ways, the Matrix is like Corolla version 2.0. Its sheet metal is far more stylish, its 3 extra inches of height boost passenger space, and its convenient hatchback/wagon design means you can haul a lot of stuff. This cargo-carrying capacity is one of the Matrixs biggest draws -- with 61.5 cubic feet of space, this modestly sized Toyota can haul nearly as much as some compact SUVs. Yet its fuel economy with the base 1.8-liter engine is still quite good at 28 mpg combined. The Matrix costs a grand or two more than the Corolla, but its verve and versatility make it well worth the extra coin.
Unfortunately, the economical 1.8-liter engine is only available on the base model. If you want the additional feature content of the S or XRS model, a larger 2.4-liter engine is mandatory. The 2.4 engine adds some punch, but fuel economy drops to 24 mpg combined. All-wheel drive is optional on the S model, dropping fuel economy to 22 mpg. Notably, both the S AWD and XRS models feature a more advanced independent double-wishbone rear suspension in place of the standard torsion-beam setup, moderately improving the Matrixs handling behavior.
Of course, the Matrix is no Mazda 3 when the going gets twisty. But that hasnt kept myriad Matrix owners from driving home with smiles on their faces, and we expect this trend to continue. Theres a reason Europeans love hatchbacks and wagons: They drive like cars and haul like SUVs. Americans now have many such models available to them, including the aforementioned Mazda 3 (all-new this year), the all-wheel-drive Subaru Impreza, the impressive Hyundai Elantra Touring, the premium-built Volkswagen Rabbit and even Toyotas own Scion xB. Each of these cars has its own particular set of merits, but for a compact hatchback offering practicality and style in equal measures, the 2010 Toyota Matrix stands tall.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2010 Toyota Matrix is a compact hatchback available in three trim levels: base, S and XRS. All-wheel drive is optional on the midrange S. The base car features 16-inch steel wheels, power mirrors, air-conditioning, a CD stereo with an auxiliary audio jack, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and a fold-flat front passenger seat. Cruise control, keyless entry and power windows and locks are optional on this version of the Matrix but standard on the S, which also adds a rear window wiper, underbody spoilers, an upgraded stereo and a 115-volt utility outlet. The all-wheel-drive version of the S loses the spoilers, but it gains foglights and an independent rear suspension. The top-of-the-line Matrix XRS tacks on 18-inch alloy wheels, a rear roof spoiler, sport-tuned suspension and steering, upgraded seat fabric and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.A sunroof and an in-dash CD changer are optional across the board. Optional on the S and XRS only are a JBL sound system, satellite radio, a navigation system with real-time traffic, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Powertrains and Performance
On the base front-wheel-drive Toyota Matrix, youll find a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 132 horsepower and 128 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, and a four-speed automatic is optional. Matrix S and XRS models upgrade to a 2.4-liter engine that makes 158 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque, as well as an optional five-speed automatic alongside the standard five-speed manual. The AWD S comes only with the four-speed automatic.Equipped with the 1.8-liter engine, the Matrix returns above-average fuel economy -- 26 mpg city/32 mpg highway and 28 mpg combined with the manual, according to the EPA, while the four-speed auto yields 25/31/28. City mileage takes a dive if you opt for the larger engine: Ratings are 21/28/24 mpg with the manual, 21/29/24 mpg with the automatic and 20/26/22 mpg with AWD.
Safety
The 2010 Toyota Matrix comes standard with stability control and antilock disc brakes, with the S and XRS boasting larger discs all around. Also standard are front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. In government crash testing, the Matrix scored a perfect five stars for frontal and front-seat side impacts, dropping to four stars for rear-seat side impacts. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the Matrix its highest rating of "Good" in both frontal-offset and side impact crash testing.Interior Design and Special Features
Inside, the Matrix has a significantly edgier ambience than the Corolla. If you think this compact sedans interior lacks flair, the Matrix is the antidote. A telescoping steering wheel and ample seat-track travel allow drivers of all sizes to get comfortable, and the controls are both intuitive and attractive. In back, the tall, deep bench is inviting for children and adults alike, and it folds completely flat in 60/40 sections. Fixed tie-down points and rubber inserts help keep cargo from sliding around. There are 19.8 cubic feet of luggage capacity behind the rear seats and an impressive 61.5 cubes with the seats folded flat (note that this figure also likely takes into account the folded front passenger seat).Driving Impressions
The base Matrix accelerates sluggishly off the line with its 1.8-liter engine, but its admirable fuel economy will redeem it in the eyes of many shoppers. The 2.4-liter engine in the S and XRS is the opposite -- power is ample, but fuel economy is just OK. The ride is smooth and well-insulated. The 2010 Toyota Matrix may not be the sportiest economy hatchback, but its refinement is laudable.VEHICLE INFORMATION
| Year: | 2010 | |||||||||||||||||
| Make: | Toyota | |||||||||||||||||
| Model: | Matrix | |||||||||||||||||
| Trim: | 5dr Wgn Auto S FWD | |||||||||||||||||
| Body Style: | Station Wagon | |||||||||||||||||
| Engine: | Gas I4 2.4L/144 | |||||||||||||||||
| Trans: | ||||||||||||||||||
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