Actually, everyone THOUGHT the WRX was going to have great performance . So much so that the SCCA placed it in the same class as the Integra Type R. And guess what? The Type R whooped up on the WRX all season long. So this year the WRX has been downgraded one class by SCCA where it will be competeing with I think the Maxima and the contour SVT.

Slalom is not the WRX's strong point. Power is...

 

To think that a vehicle with a solid rear beam suspension (Matrix) can outhandle a vehicle with a fully independent rear (Pro5) is definitely skewed thinking.

We all know that in order to have a solid handling car, you have to have independent at all four wheels.

Plus, the Matrix is TALL. I mean, MUCH taller than it looks on tv and in magazine ads.

That PS comparo (I have not read it) definitely seems odd to me - at least from the synopsis given here. Hey, the P5 is not everything to every driver, but it's a damn good car and a damn good value. I don't care if it gets bashed by some blind reviewer, as long as it's a fair review.

 

Anyone know if the suspension and handling is the same on all Matrixes or does thee top of the line XRS have a beefed up suspension, other than the 17" wheels. and the Matrix does have a independant rear suspension?!?!? i couldnt believe that

 

Only the 4WD Matrix versions have independent rears - read it for yourself here.

Even in top trim, it still makes LESS torque (130) than the P5 and Pro sedans (135), even with 180 HP.

Plus, the exterior stying is just plain overdone, IMO. Too much flash.

There are some cool features, like the rigid cargo floor w/storage, and the way it lays perfectly flat with the seats down. Plus the 110 standard outlet is a nice touch.

 

Is the 180hp vvtl-i engine available in the AWD Matrix? I thought is was just available in the FWD 6speed car.

Also, If the matix has a solid rear beem suspension like those old Caravans that Chrysler, along with a K-car, rode out of bankruptcy, then it sucks. I could not imagine it beating a p5 in any handling comparisons, but accoridng to Motor Trend it did. I don't trust their drivers. I am sure it is legitamate and everything but who knows if the same driver drove each car and all that crap.

Damn it I am hungry....