Linda,
I test-drove a Matrix when they came out because they looked so good
in the magazines and online... In person, I found it very much larger and
more minivan-like than I thought it would be. I bought a Protege5 instead and
never regretted it. Equivalent car now is the Mazdaspeed3. In my opinion a
better car than the Matrix in every way you can measure it except for one -
Mazda insists on putting that incredibly offensive smiley-face on the front
bumper facia. I would only buy one if there is an aftermarket bumperskin to
replace it with. Anybody know if the nose from a Focus would work?
As for
the Focus - I have not yet driven a new one. It should definitely be on the
must-drive list before you make up your mind.
- David Booker
Long Island
|