You could say the 2012 Toyota Matrix is a younger, sportier version of the Corolla. They both look very similar from the front and, in fact, share the same chassis, engine and transmission: a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder with a 5-speed manual or automatic in the Base trim. Stepping up to the S beefs up the engine to a 2.4-liter with 158 hp instead of the 1.8's 132. But the Matrix is a wagon, not a sedan, and caters to a younger crowd that is seeking more thrills without wanting to jump into an SUV. Stylistically speaking, the Matrix is just a tad snazzier than the aforementioned Corolla. It’s a little taller and narrower, but its smaller side and rear windows also cut into the Matrix’s visibility. It also has been called “lumpy” and “boxy,” and many people have preferred the exterior design of earlier models as opposed to its more recent 2011 refresh. The Matrix's interior also tends to disappoint. The dashboard dials are encircled with an ugly border, and people have complained that the overall interior design feels and looks cheap. All models come with an AM/FM/CD player with MP3/WMA playback capability and an auxiliary audio jack; a USB port and streaming SiriusXM audio are available as an upgrade. The hatchback, with the seats folded down, does afford a lot of room, but in their upright position, the seats lack comfort. In the driver’s seat at least you’ll be comfy, although the ride itself tends to be noisy, sapping enjoyment for some (unless you upgrade the sound system to the 6-speaker option from the standard 4). The biggest difference between this and the Corolla is that the Matrix’s S model offers 4WD. But is it worth it? Many say no. The pickup is slow in all versions, 4WD is available only with a 4-speed automatic, and the car's already minimal 26 mpg city/32 highway rating drops drastically to 21/29. Safety features abound; as with all Toyotas, the Matrix comes with front and side airbags and front and rear crumple zones, which diffuse impact throughout its high-strength steel underpinnings. Antilock brakes and electronic stability control are also standard. Basically, the source of many complaints is the Matrix’s price tag and lack of enviable standard features. True, power windows and mirrors, air conditioning and cruise control do come standard, but Bluetooth capability and a USB port are available only in the S trim. Comparable automobiles from other manufacturers tend to rate higher in all categories. But the Matrix does fill a niche, albeit a small one, of a more rugged 4WD car married with the roominess of an SUV that won’t get you angry stares on the road. On the other hand, its low sales figures also reflect its lack of mass appeal.