2008 Kia Carens vs. 2012 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2012 Toyota Matrix is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Kia Carens. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Kia Carens would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Toyota Matrix (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2008 Kia Carens. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 2008 Kia Carens.
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, 2008 Kia Carens (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Toyota Matrix. (219 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Carens will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Toyota Matrix.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Carens | 2012 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Kia | Toyota |
| Model | Carens | Matrix |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1549 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2601 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
