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 61 through 70 of 135.00
  • A great little car - 2006 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    This is my first foreign car. I bought it based on its reputation for durability and reliability. As of this writing I have @ 900 miles on this car with absolutely no problems at all. It holds four adults in a greater degree of comfort than I would have expected for a compact station wagon. Its very economical around town, and once I get past the 1000 mile engine break-in period we will take it on an extended vacation where I expect it to get at least the advertised fuel economy of 34 mpg. Its a great little car.

  • Great car for the money - 2006 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    I traded in a large truck for the Matrix. I travel 100 miles a day and wanted a fuel efficient vehicle. This car filled the bill. If I set my cruise on 65, it can get 35-36 mpg, average 33. I thought I would miss the trucks cargo capacity, but so far, it has been fantastic. I cant believe how much I can get in it. The only problem I have had is with the paint. The car is white and there are about 8 chips on the front and hood already with only 20,000 miles. Other than the paint, I really love this car, especially when gas is $3.00 a gallon.

  • Excellent Car - 2006 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    This is an exceptional vehicle from the outside styling to the inside floor plan. Easy to carry 4 big adults including height. We take our car on the road and what a wonderful way to travel, easy to carry your luggage with the seats down and a clothes rod in the back. Recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for simple, quality and a good investment.

  • Good All Around Car - 2006 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    I bought this car new in 06. I traded my 02 Mazda Protege ES in on it when the Mazda had 115000 miles (trouble free). I got the automatic because I was living in a high traffic volume area where its less fun to drive a manual. I got the base model with power windows and locks, keyless entry, cruise, etc. Its a great looking car with lots of interior space and a mostly well thought out interior. Ride is smooth, nice driving position, clear gauges, etc. Im at 90k now & I need to trade it on a minivan because I cant fit a rear facing child seat behind me & still have enough space to drive (twins!). The throttle body went at 70K (covered by extended warranty) and the CD died at 80k.

  • Best AWD buy - 2006 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    I live in the Berkshire Mountains (read mega snow and ice). This car, with all season radials, although packed in with snow from the plow, drives out like it was summer. What a delight. Add to that great gas mileage, space for luggage for a long trip and my huge German Shepherd, all the bells and whistles one could want (auto key, air, cruise, etc)--all for under $19,000--who could ask for more? And a Toyota to boot--I could find no better car on the road for reliability and long-term value, and I did my homework.

  • Great car at a fantastic price - 2006 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    We were amazed at how much space there actually is in the Matrix. We used to camp with a pop-up trailer and our Nissan Quest. Since the Matrix isnt really a vehicle for towing weve downsized to camping with a tent. Well, going from a trailer with the room inside the van for packing was something we were worried about. But the Matrix actually has a LOT of room inside. We managed a couple trips so far and its been great! We took it on a trip from NY to KY to WV and back to NY and it performed very well in the mountains and on the highways. We definitely feel we have gotten a good buy for a great price on a fantastic car!

  • Pretty good car overall - 2006 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    Fuel economy is great and I can carry lot of things in the back. Good exterior look. Reliable mechanics.

  • Practical Ride - 2006 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    Chose the Matrix for its AWD and price. We had a pretty bad winter in New England last year and the car performed well. The gas mileage is less to be desired for a car this size. So if you are using this car to commute, watch the needle. Also noticed an awful howling noise on windy days coming from around the side mirrors. Upgraded sound system and speakers arent worth the money, buy your own. I guess for the money small quirks come with the territory. Pros: AWD, cargo space, sporty looks, minimal time at the service dept. Cons: Fuel economy, horrible acceleration, wind and road noise, sound system.

  • You just cant hate this vehicle. - 2006 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    I did not like this car in the beginning. But ever since my wife bought one I just cant stop driving it. Where else can you find a reliable under 20K brand new vehicle (fully loaded) that can haul a 30+ inch tv and some, but still get 28 miles to the gallon. And with Toyota reliability and resale value, you really cant go wrong.

  • My husband wants a Matrix too. - 2006 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    Searched far and wide for a vehicle that I could manage back and forth comfortably to my professional job. Driving included highway and stop-go city traffic. My husband and I tested several vehicles to learn about interior, outward view all around safety and its road manners. The Matrix far exceeded all competing manufacturers. Toyota - always moving forward.

Toyota Matrix Reviews By Year:
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