No need to be lost in the Matrix

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The norovirus that has been plaguing British bellies has made more news to date than the upcoming 2009 Toyota Matrix. Which doesn’t seem right. While it’s all very well taking solace in the fact that past colonial oppressors are now being highly inconvenienced, the new Matrix deserves better.

It’s a tidy and practical four-door hatchback, with plenty of room for heads, shoulders, legs and luggage throughout. The all-new model has a wider C-pillar than the outgoing version, but visibility is still pretty good.

The range-topper is the XRS, but between that and the base model is the S. This comes with a tried-and-trusted 2.4-liter engine (as found in the Scion tC and the appropriately equipped Camry) that’s happy to run on 87-octane gas and return 20/26 mpg city/highway. This is linked to an optional four-wheel-drive system and a four-speed automatic transmission (also optional). In reality, the all-wheel drive is predominantly a front-driver -- for the sake of economy -- but sends power to the rear wheels when traction and grip requirements dictate.

However, the really interesting things are the equipment options that, not so long ago, were the sole preserve of far more upmarket vehicles: voice-activated navigation, satellite radio, a 115-volt AC outlet. (Perfect for powering the iPod plugged into the auxiliary audio input. Or, heck, connect up a huge guitar amp -- there’s enough space for it.) Prices will be announced closer to the Matrix’s February launch date, but -- as an indication -- the current model starts at $15,510.

-- Colin Ryan