January 8, 2002

Toyota announces pricing for 2003 Corolla and Matrix

Toronto, Ontario - Toyota Canada announced prices for the redesigned 2003 Corolla, and the 2003 Matrix "crossover utility vehicle", both of which go on sale next month.

The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the Corolla starts at $15,290, down from $15,765 in 2001. The MSRP for the front-wheel-drive Matrix is $16,645, while the four-wheel drive Matrix starts at $20,315.

The base Corolla CE includes standard tachometer, outside temperature gauge, 60/40 split-folding rear seat, 4-speaker AM/FM/CD sound system, power remote control outside mirrors, and standard 5-speed manual overdrive transmission for $15,290.

The Corolla Sport, with its unique black interior and sporty exterior including rear spoiler, skirt package and fog lamps starts at an MRSP of $19,650.

The top-of-the-line Corolla LE includes such standard amenities as power windows and door locks, 6-speaker stereo system, cruise control, keyless entry, aluminum alloy wheels and ABS (Antilock Braking System), for $19,865 (MSRP).

The Matrix lineup includes:

The Matrix FWD (front-wheel-drive). Equipped with a 130 horsepower engine, 5-speed manual overdrive transmission and an extensive list of standard features including AM/FM/CD stereo system, comprehensive instrumentation and flip-up rear hatch glass, the MSRP is $16,645.

The Matrix 4WD, with essentially the same equipment but outfitted with V-Flex 4WD and an electronically-controlled (ECT) 4-speed automatic transmission, has an MSRP of $20,315.

The XR grade heats up the sporty image of Matrix with side skirts, colour-keyed door handles, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, power windows, and a driver's seat cushion height adjustment. With FWD, XR starts at $20,925. With 4WD, the MSRP is $24,110.

XRS is the performance star of the Matrix lineup. With a 180 horsepower VVTL-i engine and high-performance 6-speed manual gearbox, plus Anti-Lock Braking System, premium 6-speaker stereo, anti-theft system, 17-inch alloy wheels and unique exterior with full skirt package, the XRS has an MSRP of $24,540.

"Starting with an all-new shared platform and using the best of Toyota's new and existing technology, we've created two unique packages of exceptional value," said Tony Wearing, Group Vice President in charge of Vehicle Sales and Marketing. "Each will find a different but equally enthusiastic audience with price-conscious drivers who want the right car for their lifestyle, with all the quality, dependability, comfort and safety we build into every Toyota."

All Corollas sold in Canada, and every Matrix sold in North America will be built exclusively at the Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada (TMMC) facility in Cambridge, Ontario.

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