both vehicles seem to have good reviews in general. mazda is slightly smaller but has a little more torque (150ftlb vs 127ftlb, may pull off a little better) and a fresher styling. toyota may be preffered for those who are looking at reliability in general, not saying that mazdas aren't reliable. i dont think he/she cant go wrong with either cars. i really like the mazda3 styling, but i felt the same when the matrix came out a few years ago.
have your friend test drive both cars. my last purchase took 3 test drives of the same vehicle until i decided! it must look and drive right for your friend. also, check mazda3 and matrix forums online for actual owners feedback. im not sure if i can post sites here, but pm me if you want some of them.
good luck and update us on your friend's progress.
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I was in the same situation, buy the Matrix or the Mazda 3. I chose the Mazda 3 because of the larger interior, the styling and the value per dollar. A test drive helps a lot as well, I couldn't get the smile off of my face after I test drove the Mazda 3, it is so much fun to drive.
The Matrix should have a better engine in the high-revving VVTLi unit also found in the Celica. The Mazda 3's powerplant isn't exactly the class leader, probably because of the lack of variable valve timing. I also prefer the Matrix looks-wise. It's both aggressive and cute.
The 2ZZ-GE engine in the Matrix and Celica is also found in Lotus Elises. That's how performance-oriented that powerplant is. About Mazda's S-VT, well they are slightly behind Toyota's VVT.
For me the matrix looks a lot better than the mazda 3 hatch. performance wise, almost the same but I thought the top of the line matrix had like 180hp @ 7600 rpm. Anyways, back when I was car hunting I had my eye on the matrix 4WD version because of the snowy climate we have here up north, unfortunately it only had 123hp @ 6000rpm so I had to pass since having 4WD was one of my preferences.
The pontiac vibe might be another option for your friend since they're all in the same category and it also looks as good, although I think toyota and mazda has a better resale value.
I agree with max. The only thing that would make it harder to decide between the two is the consumer's trust to its reliability.
I didnt know that mazda3 is more roomy than the Matrix. My in-law has a Matrix where I played a large role in negotiating the price in 2003. She has the Matrix XR, the middle-class model. Based on my experience, the room is larger than a typical small wagon. Its larger than my previous 03 WRX Wagon.
andy, what's your friend's priority? cargo capacity? If your friend is purchasing the wagon for hauling, I suggest getting the Mazda3 instead. I cant believe XRS' torque is only 127ft-lb. Even if your friend's priority is performance, I wouldnt suggest the Matrix.
Sure, the engine is being used by Elise but it is much lighter than the Matrix. In addition, Lotus tuned the 2ZZ-GE engine to peak at 190hp and 138ft-lb as opposed to XRS' 170hp.
Elise weight: 1975
Matrix weight: 2800
It is performance oriented engine but at what cost would you get to squeeze each and every hp there is in the 2ZZ-GE? In stock form, Matrix engine is not as powerful as the Mazda3.
Im picking the Matrix XR with 130hp and 125ft-lb. obviously, not because of its performance engine but due to its well known reliability overall.
Comparison test results do not always show one car being better than the other. Some ratings were opinionated, some are even biased. Would you believe that a local test between the Altis, Civic and Lynx declared the Honda as best in exterior styling? Heck, only the Honda faithful will agree.
Use only the comparison tests as a guide to your car shopping. Do consider the objective figures, like acceleration times, interior space, etc. before buying. Match these numbers to your needs and wants. Also take your driving conditions into account. Then all other relative issues like styling boil down to your taste.
USA cars: Toyota Matrix or Mazda3 hatch
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