With Matrix sales slumping in the U.S, Toyota may not invest in a next-generation version when the 2013 Corolla hits dealerships. Only 14,592 Toyota Matrix’s were sold last year in the U.S which is down from 66,836 units in 2002. Matrix sales are still doing well in Canada, but Corolla sales are double that of the Matrix.
There has been some speculation that the upcoming Prius compact variant may replace or steal sales from the Matrix. Bob Carter, Toyota’s Group Vice President and General Manager, says the two vehicles are expected to attract two vastly different audiences.
Toyota would do well to update and refresh the aging matrix. With high fuel prices, people are turning away from SUVs and looking at hatchbacks and wagons. Hyundai and Ford already offer five door variants. According to Ward’s Auto, 43 percent of 2012 Ford Focus sales have been hatchbacks to date.
[Source: Wards Auto]