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The 2009 Toyota Matrix S has officially hit the streets. When Toyota created the Matrix S their goal was to give it a sporty edge. Unfortunately they weren’t able to follow through on this idea. Sure it has a bit more edge to it – but they sacrificed some of the looks that made us love the previous models. So instead of giving it an edgy look they ended up by dulling it out.

The Matrix will be available in three trims: Standard, S, and XRS. The interior of all three has bright white-lit gauges offsetting red-lit needles and a large, dominant speedometer. Everything from sport seats to the three-spoke steering wheel is new. However, much of the brightwork and interesting design of the prior Matrix have given way to cheaper, monotone materials, and thus, in spite of additional equipment and so-called upgraded fabrics, it’s hard to consider the new interior much of a step forward in design.

Yet, even with all of its fashion faults we are happy to see that it is available with a lot of cool new features, including Toyota’s latest navigation system with XM traffic reporting, a JBL audio system, and stability control (the latter available across all trim levels). Storage space, too, is impressive, with cubbies upon cubbies and a massive glove box. And in terms of safety, besides stability control, there are no options: Six airbags come standard.

Under the hood, the Matrix Standard and the Matrix S sport a new 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine that generates 132 horsepower and 128 pound-feet of torque and featuring dual VVT-i (variable valve timing with intelligence). Unlike the The Matrix S is also offered with all-wheel drive. The brakes, too, have been upgraded to four-wheel discs. Transmission choices are a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic. Toyota says it expects at least 30 mpg from its new small cars, and the Matrix has been engineered to accommodate a hybrid powertrain as well, which we expect to hear more about within a year.

Driving the Matrix S was un unforgettable experience. And for traditional Toyota people, and those who evidently consider Scions too edgy, that’s probably a good thing. The 1.8-liter inline-four revs smoothly, if not terribly quietly. Feel through the tilting-and-telescoping steering wheel was rather tepid and springy. All in all we were looking for an improvement in the model line-up. Perhaps next year we will have more luck.

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