The very first of a new wave of small MPVs (multi purpose vehicles) from Toyota, the nose of the Matrix bears more than passing resemblance to Europe and Japan’s Corolla Verso.

In the side it’s very distinct, with big and bold lines swaged to the body work. Two engines can be found; a 1310PS four, along with a highly-tuned version of this same 1.8 litre four that delivers 170PS.

This latter engine, when combined with the six speed gearbox and sports suspension system, creates a quite exciting time, most famously because the drive experiences the front wheels only; other Matrix designs include the option of four wheel drive.