i've had my eye on the Toyota Matrix 09. any expreiences? it looks pretty awesome, good storage and AWD. however, all my knowledge comes from here

 

My girlfriend was just shopping for that kind of car. I personally wouldnt go for AWD, more money and weight with little benefit. Some other suggestions: '08 Matrix - a little cheaper and I prefer the older body style and interior, Mazda3 hatchback - nice and sporty, Mazda5 - more room, Dodge Caliber - cheaper, Chevy HHR - cheaper with retro styling, Pontiac Vibe - same as Matrix but may be cheaper with some haggling.
We ended up getting a Caliber, seems like a good vehicle for the price, but performance with the CVT auto isnt great, get the standard trans if you can drive a stick.

 

I don't know about the current 09' model, but my neighbor is working for toyota on high position and I have heard there was a defect in the transmission (they were blowing a lot :] ), however they could fix that and focus on screwing around with pedals :]

 

Dude check out the new Honda's. I hate to say it but they are freaking cheap but still made to last. If you can stomach the design of the new Civics...