Sail,
The reason for that driver's seat/steering wheel/pedals problem is twofold. One reason is the relationship between those three parts is a compromise between what was needed for the Corolla and what was needed for the Matrix. The problem is worse in the Matrix however, I suspect this is because they knew they would sell more Corollas. Reason two is that Toyota seems to make most of their cars for people of around average height, perfectly proportioned and on the average to slim side.
The exception to this is the Solara, which has a steering wheel/pedals/seat relationship that is more highly adjustable for people of about any size than in any other car in their current lineup.
