Not Funny, But Functional

I feel almost obligated to make some sort of Matrix the car and Matrix the movie joke, but, apparently, that would be pretty lame. I'm told I'm not supposed to use lame jokes and especially ones that are as old as Toyota's compact wagon, that came on the scene in 2002 as a 2003 model, so I just won't be funny, which is also appropriate. You see, the

The Matrix does what it's called to do and does it well. (Photo: Jonathan Yarkony, Canadian Auto Press)

Matrix, despite the hip name and cool commercials (particularly the splitting-blob TV ad), is very serious (although I can't speak for the XRS model as I haven't tested it). It does what it's called to do and does it well, but it won't really let you get things out of hand. It almost decides when you've had enough fun, and when it's time for you to slow down and behave yourself.

That was on of the reasons I found driving the Matrix, even in stop-and-go traffic, to be quite a relaxing process. It's also easy to step into, get the high chair adjusted, tailor the steering wheel to your height and get going. You don't need a manual to understand its true potential. Small car,

I found driving the Matrix, even in stop-and-go traffic, to be quite a relaxing process. (Photo: Jonathan Yarkony, Canadian Auto Press)

small and efficient engine, and a lot of space for my hockey bag or bicycle in the cargo bay once the back seats are folded down. It's almost creepy how accommodating it is. And by accommodating I don't just mean lots of room, but the ease with which it goes about all of its tasks.

The particular Matrix that I was driving was a base model with the added benefit of always-available four-wheel drive. By base I mean hand crank windows, rear drum brakes and the option of keeping the driver's seat upright or reclining. However, basic living with the 2006 Matrix also includes air conditioning, 60-40 split folding rear seats, an AM/FM CD stereo, ABS (standard on 4WD models), and power variable-assist steering.