Please read ASAP!!! - 2003 XRS with AUTOMATIC

[GregoriusM]

To start, I'm in Canada. Different options packages up here. Basically, you either get the base model of the Basic, XR or XRS, or you add on one option package. I've been looking at the 2004 Corolla LE and the 2004 Matrix XR with automatic transmission. But, I didn't know that the 2003 XRS was available with an AUTOMATIC until I saw one on the lot today. It is equpped EXACTLY the way I want it. I was going to wait for the 2004's and buy the Matrix then, but I would have to buy a sun roof to get ABS brakes. How the heck do those go together? No other way to get ABS brakes on a base or XR than get it with a moon roof package. This XRS has ABS standard, and no moon roof. Does anyone out there have an XRS with automatic? If so, how do you like it? Secondly, are there any changes coming in 2004 that are so great that I should wait and not be able to get the XRS with an automatic. It will only come as a manual transmission in 2004 here in Canada. Please advise ASAP, because I don't know how long the car will be on the lot! Thanks! ... Greg

[savedbyzero]

head over to matrixowners.com . There's some loyal fans of the automatic over there. Not too many on this forum because the majority of us have the vibe, which doesn't not come with the 2ZZ(XRS/GT) and auto.I believe there is even a shift kit to improve the gear to gear shift firmness.

[GregoriusM]

Thanks, zbzero.Does anyone know where I can find the kit for the "tighter" shifting of the automatic?... Greg

[Cubanpete]

In toyota.ca, I believe the XRS is NO LONGER available in Automatic for 2004, It-s a 6-speed like the vibe GT, So what you see is probably a 2003 model, get it while you can!

[GregoriusM]

Yes, it is a 2003 model. I have applied for financing for it. The problem is I was waiting until October for my finances to open up, but I saw the XRS with automatic, and decided I'd at least try to grab it while I can. I'll know tomorrow (Friday) if I get the financing.If I had waiting until October, I would have had to buy an XR, and then add a package that included a moonroof in order to get ABS, fog lights and the 17" wheels and tires. I do not like moon roofs. This one has all of the options except a moon roof, which is perfect for me.So, with any luck, I'll be a XRS driver tomorrow.But, I'd still like to know about that automatic shift "tightener".... Greg

[ragingfish]

Other than what cuban pete pointed out regarding 04 models, i can't imagine that there will be any significant changes in a model that was just introduced to the market a little over a year ago...maybe some different option packages, little things like XM or OnStar ( neither may be in matrix, only vibe)...but as far as major changes, i wouldn't put money on it...

[GregoriusM]

Thanks guys! I'm trying to push the loan through. Some complications, but I don't want to miss out on this car.I'll let you know what happens.