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Author Topic: Matrix Vs Caliber Decision  (Read 12051 times)

Offline ziggy1

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Matrix Vs Caliber Decision
« on: August 25, 2006, 09:15:23 am »
This is my first post.  I'm trying to decide on one of three options I'm facing, namely:
1. Purchase a new Matrix in 2006 (2006 or 2007 model)
2. Purchase  a Caliber (2007)
3. Purchase a used Matrix and wait for the 2008 model

I drive 40,000 km a year (35k in highway driving) so fuel economy is a plus.  I don't need or want a van. Since I'm doing personal house renovations over the next few years (the work never stops), I need the ability to load lengths of lumber, etc. now and then, and taking stuff to the dump.  The ability to have the passenger bucket seat lay flat is a requirement. I have a 98 Camry with 225k on it and it's time to change (any idea what I can get for it?).  I test drove a Matrix (manual) and it seemed okay in power except on an uphill highway ramp between 3rd and 4th gear.  I like the Matrix looks a little more than the Caliber but I'm not hung up on them.  The dash on the Caliber sucks but it's not a big issue with me.

I have a quote of $22,600 for a Caliber SXT sport package (no tailgate speaker option) w/ tax and delivery included.  I was given a verbal on a 2006 automatic Matrix B-package for about $27,000 all costs/ taxes in.  I expect to keep the car for about 3 or 4 years.

Any thoughts or alternatives out there would be appreciated.

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Offline jeeper

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Re: Matrix Vs Caliber Decision
« Reply #1 on: August 25, 2006, 09:44:04 am »
Quote from: ziggy1 on August 25, 2006, 09:15:23 am
...I have a quote of $22,600 for a Caliber SXT sport package (no tailgate speaker option) w/ tax and delivery included.  I was given a verbal on a 2006 automatic Matrix B-package for about $27,000 all costs/ taxes in.  I expect to keep the car for about 3 or 4 years.

Any thoughts or alternatives out there would be appreciated.

By savings only i would buy the Caliber...are you buying or leasing?
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mdxtasy

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Re: Matrix Vs Caliber Decision
« Reply #2 on: August 25, 2006, 09:48:23 am »
In 3 to 4 years, the Dodge will be worth substantially less than the Matrix.  Dodge cars have not held up well in the resale market so if you are plannnig on taking on a new car in a few years, make sure you factor that in.  I don't like the Calibre looks/design but that is my personal view.  I am sure both offer the utility you need. 

Why not a small truck?  Nissan Frontier or something?  How about a Honda Fit?  They seem to be very versatile given the size of the car. Nissan Versa? 
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Offline ziggy1

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Re: Matrix Vs Caliber Decision
« Reply #3 on: August 25, 2006, 10:12:10 am »
Thanks for the quick response, my friends!

I'm intending to buy.  In terms of the resale value, I suspect I'll have put on 120 - 150K before I sell in 3 to 4 years.  I agree with your point 100%, right, so I'll play with some numbers (eg. Dodge 60% less realse, Matrix 40% less?) before I make a decision. What do you think about the used Matrix idea as an interim until the 2008 comes out?  I know I can get a used one near wholesale price.

Thanks for the tip on the Nissan...I'll check it out.  The Fit is too small and a truck is out of the question since I need storage for golf clubs, tools, etc. and also need the passenger vehcile for business.
« Last Edit: August 25, 2006, 10:22:29 am by ziggy1 »
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Offline Ray19

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Re: Matrix Vs Caliber Decision
« Reply #4 on: August 25, 2006, 10:13:41 am »
If you don't want any troubles with the car buy the Toyota, why would anybody buy a Dodge???
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Offline Accordingly

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Re: Matrix Vs Caliber Decision
« Reply #5 on: August 25, 2006, 10:18:22 am »
You should consider that the Dodge is a new model with unproven (and possibly poor predicted) reliability. While you should be covered by warranty for the first years, it is preferable to avoid wasting time with repairs, even if covered.

The buy new/used questions for the Matrix is dependent upon current financing offers (if required) vs. potential savings of buying used (which may vary, given high residuals associated with Toyotas...don't know actual numbers on this myself).

I would strongly consider the Toy, from the standpoint of reliability alone. Good luck.
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mdxtasy

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Re: Matrix Vs Caliber Decision
« Reply #6 on: August 25, 2006, 10:37:21 am »
If the Fit is too small, the Versa might be as well.  If it were me, I'd get a Matrix.
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Offline kelli

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Re: Matrix Vs Caliber Decision
« Reply #7 on: August 25, 2006, 10:38:33 am »
Somewhere on here, not long ago, someone posted an unfavourable review of the caliber (a search should find it). The matrix would probably be a much better choice out of the two if you can afford it.
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Offline Craig

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Re: Matrix Vs Caliber Decision
« Reply #8 on: August 25, 2006, 10:40:00 am »
Owned a Matrix.  Larger on the inside than you think, and the fold-flat rear seats are excellent.  Great on gas.  I think that's your winner.
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a4_tom

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Re: Matrix Vs Caliber Decision
« Reply #9 on: August 25, 2006, 10:50:14 am »
Matrix is a much better car than Caliber. Toyota's powertrain has always been proven as reliable. Both interior materials and fit-and-finish, driving abilities and fuel economy should be much better in Matrix. The 2.3 R/T Caliber feels sluggish even with CVT, compare to Matrix's 1.8 VVT-i.
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Offline Panzer

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Re: Matrix Vs Caliber Decision
« Reply #10 on: August 25, 2006, 10:51:19 am »
Quote from: Craig on August 25, 2006, 10:40:00 am
Owned a Matrix.  Larger on the inside than you think, and the fold-flat rear seats are excellent.  Great on gas.  I think that's your winner.

And if you're going Matrix, don't forget to cross-shop it with the Pontiac Vibe: same platform, different stickers/decals/interior plastics, AND it could offer you good negotiating power since it's sold by GM which is desperate for sales.
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Offline Scaerio

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Re: Matrix Vs Caliber Decision
« Reply #11 on: August 25, 2006, 11:04:30 am »
You may wish to check out the Aerio SE for some good clearance prices on a decent-sized 5-door hatch.  (Little smaller than a Matrix, little bigger than a Yaris/Fit/Versa.)  This is a national monthly flyer from Suzuki Canada, but some dealers are offering better prices.  I believe my dealer recently had a cash purchase price of $12,995 for the Aerio SE.

http://auto.suzuki.ca/Data/Media/MA_NAT4CARS_EN_WEB.pdf

May not be as "cool"as the Matrix but it's cheaper.  It is probably more reliable and certainly better-finished than the Caliber.  I have had no complaints with my Aerio over the past year.
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Offline Sir Osis of Liver

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Re: Matrix Vs Caliber Decision
« Reply #12 on: August 25, 2006, 11:17:29 am »
Quote from: Panzer on August 25, 2006, 10:51:19 am
Quote from: Craig on August 25, 2006, 10:40:00 am
Owned a Matrix.  Larger on the inside than you think, and the fold-flat rear seats are excellent.  Great on gas.  I think that's your winner.

And if you're going Matrix, don't forget to cross-shop it with the Pontiac Vibe: same platform, different stickers/decals/interior plastics, AND it could offer you good negotiating power since it's sold by GM which is desperate for sales.


What Panzer said, except that the interior plastics are identical to those in the Matrix.

If you're interested in the Calibre, consider also the Focus wagon. Its pretty large inside and the later models hold up quite well.

In any case, buy the one that flips your switch!
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Offline ziggy1

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Re: Matrix Vs Caliber Decision
« Reply #13 on: August 25, 2006, 11:30:21 am »
Wow!  This is great feedback.  Lot's of food for thought and other options to think about.  FYI...The last new car I purchased was a 1988 Bonneville SSE from the 1st shipment in Canada. No problem getting dates back then.  So I'm relatively new to the new car market and my tastes and requirements have evolved.  By the way, affordability is not a big issue but cars are not a big priority with me (i.e. I'd rather travel with the money saved).  Thanks.  Have to get back to work, now, and will check in again. Everyone have a great weekend...
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Offline AVToller

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Re: Matrix Vs Caliber Decision
« Reply #14 on: August 25, 2006, 11:42:21 am »
Matrix hands down!! Better built, substantially better gas mileage, better resale, and much better looking (IMO). You put on a lot of use - the reliability of the Matrix would greatly contribute to my peace of mind were I in your situation. BTW, I've ridden in a friend's Matrix often and I've test driven one as well. I find it EXCELLENT for its class.
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Offline Snowman

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Re: Matrix Vs Caliber Decision
« Reply #15 on: August 25, 2006, 12:59:38 pm »
Quote from: AVToller on August 25, 2006, 11:42:21 am
Matrix hands down!! Better built, substantially better gas mileage, better resale, and much better looking (IMO). You put on a lot of use - the reliability of the Matrix would greatly contribute to my peace of mind were I in your situation. BTW, I've ridden in a friend's Matrix often and I've test driven one as well. I find it EXCELLENT for its class.

 :iagree: all of the above. Matrix all the way.
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Offline safristi

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Re: Matrix Vs Caliber Decision
« Reply #16 on: August 25, 2006, 01:05:34 pm »
Yup Matrix is the "BEST"..!!..but check out the Focus Wagon.............more room less $$$'s before deciding....the "FORD FAMILY PRICING" is still in effect and LARGE SAVINGS.................
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Offline skypoint

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Re: Matrix Vs Caliber Decision
« Reply #17 on: August 25, 2006, 01:11:48 pm »
Go to a Toyota dealership  , sit in the Matrix, and then go to a Dodge dealer and sit in a Caliber. You will feel the difference. The Calibre simply feels cheap on the inside and certainly not worth $22,000.
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Offline Bullet Blue

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Re: Matrix Vs Caliber Decision
« Reply #18 on: August 25, 2006, 01:14:31 pm »
Quote from: safristi on August 25, 2006, 01:05:34 pm
Yup Matrix is the "BEST"..!!..but check out the Focus Wagon.............more room less $$$'s before deciding....the "FORD FAMILY PRICING" is still in effect and LARGE SAVINGS.................

Good point, or the Focus ZX5.

But of the two, definately the matrix for the reasons Avtoller mentioned.
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Offline Cord

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Re: Matrix Vs Caliber Decision
« Reply #19 on: August 25, 2006, 01:52:44 pm »
Quote
By the way, affordability is not a big issue but cars are not a big priority with me (i.e. I'd rather travel with the money saved).

Why not look at something like a one year old Focus wagon and save $8000-$10000 over that new Matrix? You can do a lot of travelling for $10,000, no?
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