At first glance, the new Matrix, a 2009 model available this month, looks so familiar you might wonder what's really new. Then look closer and the front fenders have grown wheel arches that flow to a character line traveling back to sculptured rear flanks. And while the sloping roof is familiar, the glass terminates at the rear door where it meets a solid `C-pillar' that conveys strength.

Toyota asserts that the front-wheel drive Matrix blends "...the functionality of an SUV, the style, image and performance of a sports car with the affordability of a subcompact sedan." That's quite an undertaking, and only believable if one considers any wagon-like vehicle an SUV and any sporty car a sports car. We'll give Toyota a nod on the affordability claim and credit for upping the performance credentials for the new Matrix.

When the sporty, versatile five-door hatch appeared five years ago it was offered in three trim levels, including an XRS performance version. Over time, Toyota reduced the choice to just two offerings, both powered by 1.8-liter, 126-horsepower engines. The '09 Matrix brings back the XRS and improves the base engine's power to 132 horses.

And it added the needed power without sacrificing emissions or economy through the wizardry of dual, intelligent valve timing and other high-tech modifications.

For the enthusiast buyer who is willing to give up a little economy for zoom factor, a 2.4-liter engine is available that generates 158 horsepower. And the bigger engine delivers its added punch at reasonable revolutions - no more waiting for the little motor to sing soprano before things get seriously under way.

Both engine choices connect to a five-speed manual gearbox for sporty driving. If automatic is the choice, the 1.8-liter drives four speeds while the 2.4-liter benefits from a fifth forward gear. Disc brakes on all four wheels with ABS and electronic brake distribution (EBD) are standard on all trim levels. And a full array of air bags, side curtains and other safety features are also standard.

The mid-level S grade will be the most popular choice of Matrix models for many buyers since it adds a nice compliment of convenience items without adding too much to the window sticker. Enthusiasts will like the 18-inch wheels, stability control with an off switch and the strut tower brace that are part of the XRS model, along with sport seats and a three-spoke steering wheel with audio controls.

After a short drive in the new Matrix models, my impression is that Toyota has improved a good offering that was losing a bit of its former luster. The added power and torque are welcome changes, with the base engine offering enough oomph to move this 2,700-pound car with ease, especially if you can shift for yourself.

The electronic power steering is a bit numb, but the ratios are reasonable for the combination of errand running and sports driving that most owners will put this car through.