> Well, the Toyota Matrix really isn't a Toyota. It's built in a Fremont, CA
> UAW plant under a GM/Toyota joint venture. You know what happens when GM and
> UAW get together to build a vehicle.
>

Exactly.

I'm not trying to slag NA automakers, but I think the quality issue has
been pretty well established. I personally cannot think of a NA car that
I would want to own, but I did test drive the Lincoln LS or whatever -
the one that they claim is competition for a 5 Series. It might be if
your only criteria is price. They also make a big deal about one or two
specs that are "better" than the 5er, but drive both cars and you'll
have no problem deciding which is better.