So I went backroading on country routes around Lake Simcoe and discovered that the 4WD is almost as seamless as the variable timing. While it normally pulls all of its weight from the front wheels, if the Matrix detects excessive wheel spin it engages its viscous coupling and redirects torque to the rear wheels temporarily until the front wheels find traction

As far as I was willing to go off the main roads, and even a puddle or two that I hunted down, the Matrix was always in control. (Photo: Jonathan Yarkony, Canadian Auto Press)

again. As far as I was willing to go off the main roads, and even a puddle or two that I hunted down, the Matrix was always in control, as I imagine it would be on rainy byways, snow covered city streets or any other roadways it may be called on to traverse. If you're looking for a serious trail-busting 4x4, you'll want to be shopping elsewhere.

But on the highway, the Matrix is your ticket. It cruises along, not quite effortlessly, but with just enough commotion to keep me in check, and not enough power to let me get into any reindeer games with some of the other 401 flyers. If you're not bent on being the fastest cruiser and most daring lane changer, then the Matrix is a capable performer, and it may even help you keep that heart rate down and accept what the traffic gods give you.

On surface streets, the Matrix is easy to navigate thanks to its

The Matrix is easy to navigate thanks to its variable-assist power steering. (Photo: Jonathan Yarkony, Canadian Auto Press)

variable-assist power steering, which becomes a liability at high speeds because it still feels a little loose and delayed. The four-speed automatic transmission performed about as well as could be expected, with only one hiccup of gear confusion when tackling a rather steep hill at a middling speed.

The brakes are standard ventilated discs up front and ho-hum rear drums, but they were easily up to the task of hauling the Matrix down from speed. Beyond that, the safety cocoon includes dual-stage driver and passenger airbags, 3-point seatbelts with force limiters and adjustable height shoulder anchors.