Designed as a versatile crossover that combined sport utility vehicle characteristics with a sporty, youthful appearance, the Toyota Matrix never hit its intended audience — young car buyers. But that doesn’t mean the hatchback wagon was a bust. Introduced six years ago, the Matrix has enjoyed success, particularly considering its affordability.

And with current gas prices, the fuel-efficient, 2008 Matrix (the last year of the car's first generation and featuring no changes from the 2007 version) may have a renewed popularity.

But while trying to take advantage of a premature unveiling, Toyota is already selling the redesigned 2009 Matrix, which offers an upgraded engine (2.4-liter, 158 horsepower) in its premium models, plus a fresh interior and exterior design for all trims.

What hasn’t changed is why the front-wheel drive Matrix continues being an appealing five-passenger wagon. It offers considerable versatility for singles and families.

The Matrix can transport surfboards to mountain bikes. It also has an eight-grocery-bag capacity and several car seats configurations for more practical family requirements. When both rear seats and the front passenger seat are folded flat, an eight-foot-long item can be hauled. And if the Matrix gets dirty, the plastic-coated floor makes interior cleaning easy.

Based on the compact Toyota Corolla sedan, the 2008 Matrix is seven inches shorter, but much roomier because it's taller and wider. It seats two adults comfortably in the back (three is a crowd), and it's offered in base and XR trims.

Price is another major plus, ranging from $15,510 to $17,820. And that's for a vehicle mostly pleasant to drive and averages 26-31 mpg.

Despite the positives, some drivers will want more performance. It's understandable considering the Matrix has a 1.8-liter, 4-cylinder engine that generates 126 horsepower and features a 5-speed manual transmission. A four-speed automatic is optional on both trim levels.

Many drivers may feel the Matrix is just an average ride. While acceleration is fine around town and there's adequate power for highway passing, the Matrix labors uphill, even the manual transmission. Because of its height, the Matrix is subject to wandering in windy conditions. But the overall handling is dependable for the compact class.

The Matrix can’t match either the Subaru Impreza or the Mazda 3 for driving pleasure and the Chevy HHR, Dodge Caliber and Scion xB provide more overall features. Rivals Kia Rondo and Mazda 5 come with third-row seating and are more children friendly.

 
FAST FACTS: TOYOTA MATRIX,  2008

Power — 1.8-liter, 4-cylinder, 126 horsepower.

Mileage Estimates — 26 mpg (city), 33 mpg (highway).                                       

Standard Features — Daytime running lights, center console, outside temperature gauge, rear defogger, cargo cover, ilt steering, tire pressure monitor

Warranty — Powertrain, 5 years/60,000 miles; Bumper-to-bumper, 3 years/36,000 miles; Corrosion, 5 years/unlimited miles.