2010 Toyota Matrix S

With the blistering performance of the 2010 Toyota Matrix S’s 2.4-liter, 158-hp engine, it’s no wonder foglights were made standard to provide extra illumination in the forward direction. With your choice of a five-speed manual or automatic transmission, buyers gain a gear on the automatic side when choosing the S. Sadly, 16-inch wheels with covers are still the standard here, although the S does gain power door locks, windows, and remote keyless entry along with its power mirrors. Traction control and an anti-skid system do safety duty, along with daytime running lights and a tire pressure monitor. Front bucket seats sit in front of a split-folding rear, and the driver enjoys a tilt/telescoping steering wheel that also houses controls for the cruise and the CD and MP3 stereo, with a digital-media-player connection.

Dual front, front-side, and curtain-side airbags protect occupants, and four-wheel antilock disc brakes with brake assist prevent accidents in the first place.

By Michael Perkins