2011 Hyundai Matrix Review
Price
from: RM62,695
to: RM64,958
Installment
from: RM598/mth
to: RM620/mth
2011 Hyundai Matrix at a glance
Counting more inadequacies than strengths, the 2011 Hyundai Matrix will find modern competition too tough to handle. The lack of practicality, quality and refinement is ever more obvious under comparison.
2011 Hyundai Matrix quick specs
| Body Style | MPV |
| Class | Mid-size Utility |
| Assembled | - |
| Engine Range | - |
| Fuel Options | - |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
2011 Hyundai Matrix ratings (overall rating : 2/5.0)
| Styling | |
| Handling | |
| Comfort | |
| Quality + Reliability | |
| Performance |
| Roominess | |
| Running Costs | |
| Value for Money | |
| Equipment | |
| Environment |
Styling
The 2011 Hyundai Matrix is supposed to exhibit some form of European heritage in its design. After all it is penned by the famous Italian design house Pininfarina. However, the end product is less than satisfactory: the high roof, uneven side window line, and weird proportions giving the Hyundai Matrix an awkward stance. It reminds us of cars made several generations ago. While the compact MPV segment has moved the game on, size and looks wise, Matrix seems out of place, appearing more like an expanded hatchback than a compact MPV.
Handling
Handling dynamics are predictably low on the 2011 Hyundai Matrix's list of priorities. Grip levels run out early, and the steering provides little joy to steer. While body roll through bends is not excessive, most if not all rivals have better body control. This is a car for travelling from point A to point B, not one for those seeking driving pleasure.
Comfort
With the suspension tuned for absorbing bumps, the ride quality over rougher surfaces is compliant. As the ride comfort increases with speed, cabin refinement however takes a hit due to the intrusive wind and road noise. Suspension noise when going over bigger bumps is another concern. The driving position is elevated and rather upright, giving good all-round visibility. Comfort levels, especially for longer journeys, are compromised by the front seats' lack of back support and the centered instrument binnacle, which is harder to view when travelling at speed.
Quality + Reliability
Like the exterior styling which seems brought over from the past, the interior build quality is distinctly old-school Hyundai—solid assembly which should keep the dashboard intact in the long run, but the materials used feel and look cheap. This is another area where rivals have moved their game on, and the 2011 Hyundai Matrix will need to be much better to compete. Hyundai, while not known so much for quality, has their reputation built on reliability (and lower pricing), thus the Hyundai Matrix's mechanicals should stand up to use.
Performance
A 1.6-litre DOHC engine is available with either a four-speed automatic or a five-speed manual. Producing 102 bhp and 141 Nm, the 1.6-litre struggles to pull the 2011 Hyundai Matrix's bulk along, needing to be worked hard to deliver any real punch—evident from the 14.2 seconds taken to reach 100 km/h from standstill. On a more positive note, the 1.6-litre is both smooth and quiet at speed. The manual gear change is clumsy, which is why we will recommend the smooth-shifting automatic.
Roominess
The awkward-looking tall profile provides plenty of head- and leg-room for front and rear occupants. However, modern compact MPVs offer more space and, perhaps more crucially, better practicality—the 2011 Hyundai Matrix's boot capacity is small, and the fixed rear seat base means the seating system is far from clever, and even further behind what rivals are offering.
Running Costs
Running costs are below average. Fuel economy is poor when considering the relatively small engine capacity. Servicing and repairs should be affordable, and the reliable mechanics should lower maintenance cost in the long run. Depreciation, on the other hand, could be substantial. The Hyundai badge helps little in preserving value, although the brand reputation is steadily improving. The influx of modern compact MPVs will also make the second-hand market more competitive; bad news for the dated Hyundai Matrix.
Value for Money
Hyundai calls the Matrix a compact MPV, yet the supposed competition offer so much more. Modern compact MPVs such as the Naza Citra, Nissan Grand Livina and Toyota Avanza are prime examples. But if you really want to get the 2011 Hyundai Matrix, at least opt for the cheaper, locally-assembled Inokom Matrix.
Equipment
Air-conditioner, electric mirrors and electric windows come as standard. Unflattering 14-inch wheels are also fitted. SRS airbags, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) are standard, while driver's airbag and front seatbelt pretensioning system are optional.
Environment
Carbon dioxide emission levels of 174/198 g/km, for the manual and automatic transmissions respectively, are below par when the small engine capacity is taken into account. Add the poor fuel economy and the 2011 Hyundai Matrix presents as much an environmental harm as larger cars.
Live Life Drive Verdict
Decent ride quality
Solid cabin assembly
Smooth, quiet engine
Awkward looks
Poor refinement
Lacklustre practicality
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