2003 Hyundai Matrix GLS review from Malaysia
"You pay peanuts, you get a monkey-car. Huhuhu.."
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The fuel consumption is very high compared to other 1.6 auto transmission cars.
The driver's side mirror is narrow-viewed and magnified, very dangerous for those who are not aware of this. I have to practically look to the right after checking the side mirror to make sure there's no car on my right every time I want to turn right or change lane. That's another reason I am so reluctant to let other people to drive my car.
The tires are loud on any Malaysian highway, and the wind noise is very loud if I drive over 100 km/h.
The spare tire has to be taken out from its compartment every time I want to refill or check air pressure since the air valve is hidden/ facing downward. My previous car had the spare tyre valve facing upward.
The rear left door panel makes a rattling sound whenever I turn up the player's volume. Probably the manufacturer had generously installed a mini orchestra that plays along with the speakers.
On its third year (50,000 km) the front brakes caused the steering to rattle on high speed braking. My friend said maybe the brake disks surface need to be polished. Is that true?
General comments?
Nice handling except on sharp curbs.
Easy to drive for short Asian people (but nowadays young Asian generation are getting taller than their parents).
Lot of drink holders and small compartments.
Spacious cabin for over-sized passengers.
Air conditioning is adequate even though the car only has front blowers.
Cheap (I wish to use 'low price' but cheap may be more proper considering the problems above).
Recommended reviews
| A great small MPV for family outing |
| I love this car |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Model year | 2003 |
| Year of manufacture | 2003 |
| First year of ownership | 2006 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6 petrol Automatic |
| Performance marks | 5 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 5 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 5 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 4 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 42000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 60000 miles |
| Previous car | Perodua Kancil |
| Date of Entry | 26th August, 2006 |