Toyota Matrix vs. Kia Spectra Review

Performance
Both the Toyota Matrix and the Spectra are likely to feel a little slow because of their high horsepower-to-weight ratio.

Handling
With its tighter turning radius, the Kia Spectra is very likely nimbler than the Matrix, something to consider if you do a lot of city driving; however, keep in mind that a vehicle with a tight turning circle may feel a bit twitchy on the highway.

Drivetrain
The Toyota and the Kia Spectra have similar-sized engines, with a slight advantage to the Kia Spectra. The Matrix could learn a lesson or two from the Kia Spectra regarding pickup.

Utility
Neither the Matrix nor the Kia Spectra has a marked advantage in terms of seating capacity.

Convenience
You'll very likely take the Kia Spectra for a fill-up about as often as the Toyota Matrix.

Comfort
While the front cabin in the Matrix offers a bit more head room than the Kia Spectra, there frankly isn't much of a difference. The Toyota Matrix is not particularly roomier for your passengers than the Spectra.

Dimensions
Both the Toyota Matrix and the Kia are likely to feel a little slow because of their high horsepower-to-weight ratio. The Toyota Matrix's tank is roughly the same size as the Kia Spectra's, though the Kia Spectra's is slightly more capacious. The Kia Spectra and the Matrix compete for the same parking spaces.

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 Kia Spectra to the dealership as the Toyota Matrix. The Kia consumes a lot of gas compared to the Matrix. The Spectra doesn't pale in comparison to the Toyota Matrix with respect to fuel economy. Regarding MSRP, the Spectra doesn't cost much less than the Toyota.

Overview
The basic after-sale protection that comes with the Toyota Matrix isn't quite as generous as the Spectra's.