Matrix or Subaru?

Q: Greg, I have test driven the Toyota Matrix XR FWD and Subaru Impreza Outback Sport AWD. But I’m torn as to which to pick for my new car. I haven’t driven the AWD Matrix yet. I live in a city with traffic lights and wonder if all-wheel drive is good for me. I am a short person as well. I know the gas mileage is not as good on AWD as it is on front-wheel drive.

Which car would be better for saving in the long run? — Gail, via e-mail

A: Gail, first I’d test drive the AWD Matrix, as it’s also a fine vehicle. Subaru offers AWD as standard equipment in all its vehicles, so we must make a fair comparison here.

From the tone of your letter you sound like you have to drive in snowy weather, so I think the AWD version of the Matrix or the Subaru would be in order. You’ll be very happy when it snows, as both vehicles will take you wherever you want to go.

As for the fuel mileage, the decrease you mention isn’t that much, and AWD is really worth the price of few dollars more per fill-up. Heck, you’ll be in AWD security and safety.

As for recommending which car to buy, that’s easy. Follow your heart. Only you know which one you like better. Both are quality vehicles and have rated very high in my test-drive articles. (By the way, the Pontiac Vibe is produced by Toyota and is a mechanical clone sans the exterior skin, so you might want to drive a Vibe AWD for a different look.)