KEEPING UP WITH THE JONESES? Toyota takes another crack at cool with the new Matrix.(News)

Byline: MAC MORRISON

Toyota introduced the first Matrix five-door in late 2002, during the best-forgotten height of carmakers' "create a new segment'' shootout, and promptly dubbed it a CUV-crossover utility vehicle, aimed at attracting coveted young, cool buyers.

Despite decent sales, the Matrix did not quite hit the mark-and not solely because of its take-it-or-hate-it styling and questionable sporting pretensions.

"[It] was seen far too often as a small, conventional, practical wagon,'' said chief engineer David Terai.

Not to mention that Toyota's Scion division came along and really targeted the fabled trendsetters companies covet.

Toyota maintains that Scion brings new buyers into the fold; the Matrix and its Corolla platform mate keep them there. But this market is crowded with contenders. Terai said the new model needs to stand out in a crowd and must "focus on the adrenaline rush at 10-10ths through a hairpin turn.''

The styling and stance are much sleeker than the original, without the top-heavy look. Overall, the car is less than an inch longer and about a half-inch wider, and it sits half an inch lower while retaining the same wheelbase. Key dimensions are nearly identical to the old model, but fold the rear seats flat, and the Matrix gains eight cubic feet of cargo volume, one of its traditional hallmarks and selling points. A nearly flat rear floor that allowed engineers to move the rear seats back produces more hip room. Redesigned front seats are an improvement over the sometimes uncomfortable originals, but the interior design and overall quality are average, with lots of hard plastic trim and switchgear.