The 03 Matrix XRS is due for some new shocks/struts soon so to make it feel more connected to the road I'm considering something on a budget that will make the car more fun to drive on both the street as well as an autocross course. I don't want to lower the car more than a 1/2" - 1" either. Does anyone have any experience with setups on these or the Corolla XRS that would like to shed some light? The car does have 186k on it but the drivetrain & body are solid so I'm going to hang on to it until she dies but I also don't want to spend a fortune.
No experience with the XRS, besides test driving a Rolla version a few weeks ago (bad trans, beat to crap by a P.O., many other problems), but nobody ever said "I shouldn't have bought these Konis."
andy_b
New Reader
7/19/17 12:19 p.m.
I'm sure this is too late for the OP, but I want to add it so the information is out there and searchable.
No manufacturer lists a quality shock for the Matrix/Vibe platform. The best I could find was Tokico Blue's but they weren't currently available when I was searching.
Koni "cut a strut" front inserts for a 9th gen Corolla will work in the stock Matrix/Vibe strut housing, and are a fantastic upgrade. Part number is Koni 8610-1416 Sport.
I have them paired with Tein S-Tech springs on my XRS, and am extremely happy with the setup. The only shortcoming I've found after a few autocross events is that there is too much body roll to keep the front tires planted during hard cornering. A stiffer rear swaybar (TRD or Whiteline) is a highly recommended upgrade for the platform.
In reply to andy_b:
Thanks, Man. I am most interested in this information.
