A Funky, Fun Corolla; But some faults show, too.(Toyota's Matrix automobile, information and statistics)

Toyota Matrix owners who contacted us love the fun and functionality of the CUV (crossover utility vehicle, in Toyota-speak, which is how the vehicle is labeled on its Monroney sticker).

We agree, and part of the fun is the Matrix's funky look. As one editor described it: ``Think of a Ford Focus in a funhouse mirror that stretches it upward.'' Another said, ``This is a PT Cruiser styled for young folks instead of old ones.''

A clever marketing/manufacturing move by Toyota, Matrix is built next to the Corolla in Cambridge, Ontario, and shares its stalwart sibling's sturdy platform.

The Matrix wasn't as faultless as we expected for a Corolla-based vehicle, but the owners seem happy to put up with any imperfections.

We tested the top, XRS version, a front-driver using the Celica GT-S's high-revving, 180-hp four-cylinder and six-speed manual (a four-speed automatic is optional). Most of our gripes involved that engine/six-speed transmission combination.

The base and XR versions come only with the Corolla's 130-hp/123-lb-ft four-banger. They offer an awd option, while the XRS does not-``but that's just as well,'' said one of our track testers, ``because the engine doesn't have enough torque to exploit the awd. The power comes on strong at 6000 rpm, but there's nobody home below that. An 8000-rpm redline and a six-speed? That indicates a powerband like a tiny motorcycle.''

He went on: ``This thing doesn't have enough torque anywhere in its rev range to make good use of the grippy tires.'' But those 17-inch Firestone Firehawk SZ50 directional tires, along with a forgiving suspension, impressed in our track tests.