SEMA Debut: Toyota Corolla/Matrix
Since my broken leg pretty much made SEMA out of the question, I've been at home ignoring the show in protest. I suppose that's why I didn't get the news that the all new Corolla and Matrix made their American debut at the show in Vegas. Interesting choice for a car debut...especially two cars that didn't stray to far from the previous generations. Both are powered by the Camry I4, a 2.4L engine that pumps out 158hp/162 lb-ft of torque. The non-XRS Corolla models have a smaller I4, mind you. Not exactly mind blowing, but what do you expect from compact cars? Other than that, looks like the rumors of the Blade making it's way to North America as the Matrix came true. Also, in what can be the quickest debut of a new model in the aftermarket, Toyota unveiled a supercharged version of the Corolla and a rally version of the Matrix. Exciting. OK time for some PR pics! Hooray... :-/
TAKE THE RED PILL!!!
This is the Toyota Blade, introduced in Japan as a bit more upscale Auris with more creature comfort features and a powerful engine. Well Toyota just upped the antee by throwing in a 3.5L V6 in the thing and calling it the "Blade Master." Yup, you heard me right...a freakin' V6 putting out about 280hp to the ground through the front-wheels. Kind of awesome I guess - not quite the looker but hey enough power to get you around and then some.
That's all nice and dandy, but why would that peak the interest of us Yanks? Well, consider the fact that Toyota has made it known a version of the Auris will debut in America in 2009, which will replace our beloved Matrix, which at one point was making waves in the aftermarket world...for like 5 minutes. This Matrix replacement's name? Blade. So there could be the possibility of getting a high-end model with a V6...or if anything, at least we know we could swap a 3.5L V6 in there.
[Source: NihonCar]