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Toyota Matrix vs. Dodge Challenger Review

How the Toyota Matrix stacks up against the Dodge Challenger - by Nigel Cooper, Topanga CA

2010 Toyota Matrix
Price Range: $16,290 - $20,770
2010 Dodge Challenger
Price Range: $22,220 - $41,230
Toyota Matrix vs. Dodge Challenger Review

Utility
The Toyota Matrix and the Dodge Challenger can accommodate the same number of passengers. Towing is substantially more the Toyota's forte than it is the Dodge Challenger's.

Performance
Regarding horsepower, the Dodge Challenger packs quite a wallop and will knock the Toyota Matrix down a few rungs. On the flip side, keep in mind that high horsepower engines often command higher insurance premiums.

Dimensions
The Challenger is tremendously more bulky than the Toyota. Your wallet will hurt more every time you fill up the Dodge Challenger than the Toyota Matrix because of its larger tank. The Matrix fits in smaller parking spaces than the Challenger. The Dodge's longer wheelbase will result in a smoother, more stable ride; on the other hand, the Matrix may give a sprier feel in daily traffic.

Convenience
The Toyota Matrix's fuel tank will need to be replenished more often than the unit in the Dodge Challenger.

Cost
The destination charge is a standard charge for transporting the vehicle from its point of origin to the dealer. It costs about the same to get the Challenger to the dealership as the Toyota Matrix. Producing an accurate gas mileage evaluation is so tricky that some think not even the federal government can do it, but it looks as though the Toyota Matrix is the winner when it comes to fuel economy. The Toyota Matrix won't save you much money at the pump compared to the Dodge Challenger. With respect to MSRP, the Dodge Challenger costs tremendously more than the Toyota.

Handling
With their similar turning circles, the Dodge Challenger and the Matrix likely handle roughly the same into and out of tight spots.

Drivetrain
The Dodge Challenger has a bigger engine than the Toyota. Bear in mind that smaller engines typically get better gas mileage, but smaller engines can be stressed more. The Dodge Challenger packs quite a punch compared to the Toyota Matrix as far as torque, which is the force that lets you accelerate quickly. Torque is the force that lets you accelerate quickly, and in this respect, the Dodge Challenger is tremendously more powerful than the Toyota Matrix.

Comfort
Taller drivers will substantially enjoy the extra head room in the Toyota Matrix's front cabin compared to the Dodge Challenger. The Toyota provides more head- and leg-room to your passengers than the Challenger does.

Overview
The Challenger and the Toyota have the same basic after-sale protection.

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