Toyota will be updating the Matrix in Spring 2008 and the automaker is using the Mazda3 as its design inspiration (good choice) for the hatchback. The Corolla-based vehicle is already sold in Europe as the Auris and in Japan as the Blade. The US-based Matrix will have different sheet metal than in other markets but it may be taking on the Blade name since Toyota has registered the name with the US Patent and Trademark office. The Japan market Blade has a 2.4L engine producing 158 HP, which would be a big bump from the 126 HP that powers the current Matrix.

[source: Automotive News -]

http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/13/new-mat...ming-spring-08/

Is the Vibe going to fade to dust? It really needs to be revamped ASAP

Edited February 13, 200719 yr by illustcat

There's spyshots of the next gen Vibe in the forum somewhere. It's coming back.

This thing s ok but still not very good.

The Vibe looks like it will just be a reskin of the current model.

Newsflash, it's sold in Japan as the Auris as well. The Blade is a more expensive Toyopet. And if Toyota is copying anything with the Auris it's not the Mazda3 wagon, but the Golf and Astra.

Edited February 13, 200719 yr by thegriffon

Oh, and Blade will not be the name in the US, although that was considered.

Newsflash, it's sold in Japan as the Auris as well. The Blade is a more expensive model for a seperate dealer network to the Auris. And if Toyota is copying anything with the Auris it's not the Mazda3 wagon, but the Golf and Astra.

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TOYOPET: The leading channel in Japan's midsize market

TOYOTA COROLLA: Toyota's large-volume channel with an emphasis on (but not

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Lexus: Aims to provide the highest-quality products and an unparalleled purchasing

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that pic doesn't look long enough to be a matrix... it doesn't even have windows behind the rear doors, really. Anyone know how the length compares to the current model?