2006 Kia Carens vs. 2008 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2008 Toyota Matrix is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Kia Carens. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Kia Carens would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Carens is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Matrix (126 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2006 Kia Carens. (111 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Carens. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Matrix weights approximately 581 kg more than 2006 Kia Carens. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Kia Carens (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Toyota Matrix. (165 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Carens will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Toyota Matrix.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Carens | 2008 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Kia | Toyota |
| Model | Carens | Matrix |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 2581 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
