2008 Hyundai Matrix vs. 2009 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2009 Toyota Highlander is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Hyundai Matrix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Hyundai Matrix would be higher. At 3,456 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 2008 Hyundai Matrix. (102 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2008 Hyundai Matrix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 4 kg more than 2008 Hyundai Matrix. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Toyota Highlander is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Hyundai Matrix. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Hyundai Matrix. (141 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Hyundai Matrix. 2009 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 2008 Hyundai Matrix has manual transmission. 2008 Hyundai Matrix will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Matrix | 2009 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Hyundai | Toyota |
| Model | Matrix | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Minivan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 3456 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.3 L/100km | 12.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 73 L |
