2006 Toyota Matrix Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.57/5 Average
135 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

There are no major changes to this year's Toyota wagon, although new SAE testing procedures have resulted in lower horsepower ratings.

Pros:
  • Versatile cargo area, roomy rear seats, good gas mileage, generous standard equipment list, availability of all-wheel drive and stability control.
Cons:
  • Modest torque output, less fun to drive than its styling suggests.

User Reviews:

Showing 41 through 50 of 135.00
  • Its fun - and cheep - 2006 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    Was looking at new Lexus ES 330s and decided their cost was more than I really could afford. Started looking at lesser cost mini SUVs. Had really never paid attention to Toyota other than the Lexus. The Matrix caught our eye and we grabbed it for the inherent quality we knew Toyota has. If youre looking for high Resale, overall Quality, Sporty good looks, very Economical, good Comfort and a deceptively Roomy little rig,, look at the Toyota Matrix as your next car. We very much like ours because it fills our and most peoples needs.

  • Practical and Functional - 2006 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    I traded in my 2001 Celica for this, mainly because I wanted something with more utility while maintaining the fuel economy I had become accustomed to. Engine is weak in low revs, better as they build, and the transmission upshifts way too soon when merging or passing. The interior makes this car worth owning, for sheer cargo space, youd be hard pressed to find something this light and economical with this much space. Handles well. Id gladly buy the upcoming replacement, as long as it gets more grunt, a better transmission, and disc brakes in the rear. I would definitely recommend this car to anyone, knowing that my only hang-ups are its lack of sportiness.

  • Solid and versatile - 2006 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    I have owned the Matrix for a little over 8 months and living in the Northeast have driven it in all types of weather with complete confidence. I have found the ride comfortable and the handling enjoyable. The interior room is superior to many larger cars. And I feel the versatility in unmatched. Other reviewers have stated that the vehicle could use more power. Yes, more power would be nice, however, only if the MPG’s would increase or stay the same. I have yet to experience a situation where the engine power was not sufficient and most of my driving includes highway miles.

  • Great Car For Tall People - 2006 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    The Matrix fits in well with our two car family (we have a Camery also), this is my primary car going to and from work. Gas mileage is very good. It is very convient to run around town with the kids. The kids like riding in it more then the Camry (who knows why).

  • 2006 Toyota Matrix - 2006 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    Great car. Not my first Toyota and wont be my last. A little over a year after purchase the computer had to be replaced, but Toyota knew about the problem and the work was done free. This car has all the conveniences of a station wagon but its small and easy to maneuver.

  • Perfect balance between car and SUV - 2006 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    The Matrix is a great car. Its comfortable, roomy, and stylish. Folding down the rear seats creates a very roomy cargo space. The rear window opens upward, allowing long items to easily extend out the back. The seats are comfortable, the dashboard is futuristic. My passengers report plenty of legroom. Lots of little features like a flat-folding passenger seat and an ordinary AC outlet add up. I like it so much that when my 03 Matrix was totalled in an accident, I went out and bought an 06.

  • Love this car ! - 2006 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    I wanted one of these cars for two years and finally bought one. I bought the XR AWD. I went on the lot and test drove it and loved it. It handles great, its comfortable, great gas mileage and you get good options. My only beef is it is way under powered, which doesnt bother me all that much because I drive slow anyway. But I wanted the 5 five speed manual to compensate this, but all they had was the automatic and I wanted to close escrow that day.

  • Do Not buy it, if you are a highway crusier - 2006 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    This car is OK for local driving, and it can haul stuff from Ikea when back seats folded down. It is quick from 0-30, and is quite slow beyond that. So, plan ahead when merging into busy highway. MPG has been bad so far with 15K mikes, 20 for city and 27-31 on highway at 80 mph. The biggest problem is noise. Annoying at 65mph, and unbearable at 80 mph. It takes many hours to recover from dizziness after 2-3 hours driving. I recently found a trick to deal with the noise - ear plugs, inspired by a coworker who works in a room with 2-3 hard working pumps used to create near absolute zero (0K) temperature.

  • Matrix AWD - 2006 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    This is my wifes car and she loves it. It is great around town, nimble, solid. She picked it mainly because of the hatchback and fold flat rear seats which are very nice. Great for golf clubs. Now has 25K miles and we did have a check engine light that required replacement of an oxygen sensor under warranty. One thing that I consider a defect was the factory tires. The front left tire wore on one side enough to require replacement after only 15K miles!!! Of course they wouldnt honor anything since they were not rotated every 5K miles. Replaced all 4 tires and had the front end aligned and it was very close to in specs so dont know what caused the tire wear.

  • A Great Little Car - 2006 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    I purchased my Matrix 5-20-2006, there is now over 3600 miles on it. Before I purchased the Matrix I had a Tundra, great vehicle but I grew tired of putting $60.00 a week in gas. The Matrix took a little getting used to but now its fun to drive, roomy, economical, turns on a dime and cute. (A real chick term, Sorry guys.) It would help to have adjustable steering wheel and a little more ground clearance but no vehicle is perfect. I am more than satisfied with my purchase.

Toyota Matrix Reviews By Year:
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