The front-wheel-drive Matrix is available with three engines; a four cylinder 1,599 cc petrol engine capable of 102 bhp @ 5,800 rpm, a powerful four cylinder 1,795 cc petrol motor with 121 bhp of power on tap at 6,000 rpm, and a three cylinder common rail 1,493 cc turbodiesel engine with a power figure of 100 bhp @ 4,000 rpm.

 

All have excellent torque: the 1.6 GSI has 141 Nm/104 lb ft @ 4,500 rpm, the 1.8  160.9 Nm/119 lb ft @ 4,500 rpm, and the 1.5 TD 235 Nm/173 lb ft @ 2,000 rpm. The DOHC in-line four cylinder motor boasts a longer stroke for better low and mid-level performance and a higher compression ratio. The 1.6 takes the Matrix GSI to a top speed of 105.6 mph and 0-62 mph in 12.7 secs.

 

Although the 1.8 Beta II engine offers better performance, it also returns respectable fuel economy. Like the 1.6, the 1.8 is a DOHC unit with multi-point fuel-injection and distributorless ignition. Optimal combustion chambers and cylinder head ports help deliver better performance and fuel economy and a mechanical lash adjuster reduces friction loss. It has a top speed of 114.3 mph and does the 0-62 mph run in 11.3 seconds.  The two petrol engined Matrixes return good fuel economy: the 1.6 is capable of 44.8 mpg on the Extra Urban run, 31 mpg Urban and 40 mpg Combined. The 1.8 returns 42.2 mpg Extra Urban, 26.2 mpg on the Urban Cycle and 34 mpg combined.

 

The SOHC 1.5 TD engine, part of a family of common-rail turbodiesels developed in-house by the Hyundai Motor Company. Qualities of this engine include reduced emissions, respectable hill climbing ability and acceleration for overtaking. The CRTD GSI will only be sold in Europe.

 

But the main reason for buying a diesel is for fuel economy, and the CRTD GSI does not disappoint. The CRTD GSI returns 60.1 mpg on the extra urban run, 37.7 mpg urban and 49.6 mpg combined. It has a top speed of 99.4 mph and goes from 0 to 62 mph in 17.9 seconds.

Matrix owners can choose between two transmission options: a five speed manual, or a four speed automatic available as an option (petrol models only, the diesel comes exclusively with a five speed manual). The manual gearbox has been redesigned, and uses a double-cone synchroniser design for first and second gears, and a keyless synchroniser for first to fourth gears, which gives smoother shift and better response.  The four speed automatic has a wide gear ratio for improved performance and fuel economy, while improvements to the lubrication pressure system means no loss of power. The automatic gearbox also benefits from ‘fuzzy logic’ technology, so it adapts to the motorist’s driving style to maximise performance and economy.

While the Matrix was designed to be functional as a car for the whole family, Hyundai wanted it to be stylish as well – and have style that would appeal to the European market. Therefore, world renowned Italian styling house Pininfarina were commissioned to come up with the design. Key styling points include the deep side windows for better visibility and steeply raked front windscreen for better aerodynamics. The one piece front and rear bumpers feature a rubber moulding strip through the middle to absorb small knocks.

The Matrix is full of thoughtful features to make driving it a pleasure. Essential dials (speedometer, rev counter, fuel gauge, temperature, odometer) and housed in a centrally located cluster on the dashboard. A panel of warning lights appear directly ahead of the driver. The steering wheel is made of foam-padded urethane for comfort, and can be tilted. Electric window controls are conveniently housed within the driver’s armrest.

 

As well as the glove box, the Matrix features a large number of storage containers within the dashboard area. The base of the centre console features a drinks holder, while the side pockets are large enough to hold a bottle. The front passenger gets his/her own cupholder, typical of Hyundai’s attention to detail. The overhead console features a sunglasses holder, as well as reading lights on the GSI model.

 

The driver’s sunvisor contains a useful ticket holder, while the passenger’s has a vanity mirror. Thanks to its dimensions, all occupants enjoy a high seating position. The front seats have dual height adjusters and lumbar support, armrests on both sides, and a sliding underseat tray. The front seats can be fully reclined to a flat position, to give a full length sleeping area.

 

All seats feature adjustable/removable headrests as well as a reclining and sliding movement. Rear passengers are not ignored either. There is space for three to travel in the rear in comfort, and the rear armrest contains two cupholders. Cupholders can also be found in the fold-up seatback trays – which are just above the seat back pockets.

 

The rear seats have a 60:40 split fold facility, and there are numerous combinations that can be used depending on the driver’s needs. Both sections of the rear seat can be double folded to give a wide clear loading area. A standard cargo net helps keep small areas secure during travel. And finally, hidden under the cargo area floor is a further luggage box ideal for valuables.