Exploring the Matrix mini-MPV

Form follows function. Function follows form. Aptly named the Matrix, Hyundai’s latest offering in the country – as shown to selected members of the media and special guests in simple rites at the Batangas port Friday last week – proves what is inside this car-slash-minivan is just as important as what’s outside. And what’s inside are gobs of space and utility. What’s outside is sheetmetal penned by none other than the famed Italian styling house of Pininfarina. The Matrix is both useful and stylish.

Recognizing the rising popularity of compact multipurpose vehicles, Hyundai deemed it necessary to build such a product that addresses the needs of certain types of consumers who require vehicles that offer lots of seating capacity and huge doses of flexibility in its seating and luggage configurations. All these wrapped in a tidy, compact package. And what a package it is, too.

The Matrix does not scream "econocar" at all. For one thing, the vehicle sports Disegno Pininfarina badges on both its rear flanks. That means it shares something common with the some of the most seductive cars on the planet, Ferraris for instance. And not just any old Ferrari either, we’re talking 250GTO here.

A very successful rendition of the two-box, tall-car concept, the Matrix’s lines are distinctive, displaying a certain degree of flair and restraint all at once. Up front, the slightly swooping headlamps, the utterly simple grille, and the equally understated bumper assembly – flanked by foglamps on each side – are reminiscent of sporty coupes rather than minivans.

Viewed from the side or the rear, Pininfarina masterfully disguises the Matrix’s height by "slicing" the vehicle into several decks. Above the trims that are at level with the bumper lines that wrap around the car is a crease that begins from the oddly shaped front wheel arches. Going upward, the front and rear window lines meet the vehicle’s shoulders, which in turn is essential to save the Matrix from the slab-sided design found in other vehicles of this sort. The rear quarter windows are cut higher than the side windows to meet the level of the windshield and the rear glass hatch. The front window’s edges are also cut abruptly to meet the windshield lines. Roof rails and multispoke alloy wheels (on some models) complete the look. No Ferrari the Matrix’s styling may be, but it’s not minivan ho-hum boring either.

As its name suggests, the exterior only gives shape and form to what it’s holding within it. The Matrix interior is surprisingly roomy despite the car’s relatively compact dimensions. Head-, hip- and legroom match – if not exceed – those of the other sedans currently on the local market. Its features also match – and yes, may also exceed – those of the others too. The Matrix’s list boasts of sundry storage bins and convenience stuff like seatback, center console and under-seat trays; pockets under the steering wheel, the doors and overhead; extra luggage boxes; cargo net, hooks and screen; a power outlet in the cargo area; and cupholders everywhere. The 60/40 split folding rear seats further boost seating or luggage options. Of course, the Matrix also has all the power-operated gizmos found on most cars these days, along with an in-dash CD player with four speakers.

Under its sloping hood, a 1.6-liter DOHC gas engine with 16 valves and a fuel injection system powers the Matrix around. Dubbed the Alpha engine, this power plant produces a respectable 103 horsepower at a high 5800 rpm and 141 newton-meter of torque at 4500 rpm. It is mated to either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic gearbox.

The Matrix relies on MacPherson struts and coil springs up front for its suspension requirements, and the rear axle rides on a multilink and coil springs setup. Gas-filled shock absorbers control all suspension movements, and help give the Matrix controlled handling manners and a comfortable ride.

And since Hyundai believes the Matrix will appeal to small families, the company saw to it the Matrix have an impressive list of safety features. It begins with a rigid structure, extensive use of high-tensile strength steel plates, and a driver’s side airbag. In the unpleasant event of a crash, the vehicle’s engine will automatically cut off the fuel pump’s power, helping to prevent fires. The result of all these is a five-star rating (indicating best protection) from the EuroNCAP, the first Korean-made car to receive such an accolade.

Though no price tags for the Matrix have been officially declared as of press time, exclusive local distributor Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. – which also officially sells other Hyundai vehicles – says it will try to bring the figure close to the P600,000 mark. Now that will definitely draw a lot of folks to the Matrix.