2011 Toyota Matrix vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Toyota Matrix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Toyota Matrix would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Toyota Matrix (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Toyota Matrix. (219 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Toyota Matrix. 2011 Toyota Matrix has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Toyota Matrix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Toyota Matrix | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Matrix | Passat |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2400 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 219 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1765 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1549 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2601 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.4 L/100km | 3.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 5.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
