Shopping for another car.

[Brklyndriver]

First of all don't get scared, the highlander is not going anywhere. I simply think its time for a smaller, better cornering, more fuel efficient playmate. I'v been looking into getting eather a 2004 2.4l solara or a subaru legacy sedan. However both of these cars have been hard for me to locate. So i can't help wonder about the Matrix XR. I like the way it looks and its high seating position, but is it's engine too small for it? Has anyone driven one? Can i go from a V6 to a 1.8L?

[Highlander3]

My drive is the HL V-6 2WD and my wife drives the Matrix XR 4WD. The XR does a good job of doing what it does. It's a small - fuel efficient people and stuff mover. I've driven it several times on 100 to 300 mile trips due to getting 31mpg on the highway. However, I also feel the pain until I walk off the stiffness in my legs and hips. Conversely, a 300 mile trip in the HL is a pleasure.

The XR is slow (and noisey) to get up to speed. While at speed, it does a very good job (again mpg is good). It's somewhat fun to drive although it misses the oomph of that HL V-6. Short trips (<50 miles) are good. Long trips are bad. Easy to park/navigate - EXCELLENT reliability!!!! - Will have 30K miles on it this week and has only been in service for oil changes and tire rotations.

Would I buy it again? If I (50, 6', 260#) were the primary driver , no. If the primary driver was my wife, son, or daughter, YES! It's a good car, but doesn't fit my personal needs.

[Brklyndriver]

thank for the reply highlander3

I went out and test drove one and this is what I found. The small engine has a nice push off the line and it has to be reved higher which is kinda fun. The seats are way more comfortable then the highlander. The tailpipe makes a buzzing noise. I feel the bumps alot more. So heres my dilema.

With the highlander I push a little, it goes. I hit pot holes, and i don't feel them. The engine is very quiet. I'm not driving it, its driving me. All it needs is a destination. Over the past year I'v lost my passion for driving . With the matrix however its totally different, I push, it wants to be pushed harder, I hit a pot hole it hates it. I feel like it needs me. Can i get my driving passion back?

[Highlander3]

Sure, you can get your passion back. You just have to want it. It seems like you have met that qualification. The Matrix should be an excellent choice for driving in your city. Have fun!