Overview & Reviews

Toyota's compact hatchback/wagon is redesigned. The new 2009 Toyota Matrix is the same size as the old one, but a new 2.4-liter engine makes it a better performer and all-wheel drive is once again an option.

• Smooth and quiet ride, ergonomic cabin layout, adult-friendly backseat, perfectly flat load floor makes it an excellent cargo hauler.

• Mediocre gas mileage with 2.4-liter engine, tepid driving dynamics.

User Reviews:

Showing 91 through 100 of 104.00

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  Great car for a great price! - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Mom of 2 - June 24 - 4:16 am

  We sold our Honda Odyssey because it was getting terrible gas mileage. I decided to test-drive a Matrix as several others I know have a Matrix. I LOVE IT! The only complaint is the paint job seems kind of poor and scratches v. easily (silver is my color). But so long as it get 32 mpg and is dependable thats all I need! Great little car and fits me, my 6-year old twins and our 2 dogs just fine! I would not hesitate to buy one! Love the hatch-back too. Very sporty and fun to drive (I have the basic 1.8 ltr/automatic).

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  Problems with the seats - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By annemarie - June 22 - 9:53 pm

  2009 Toyota matrix ....Grey interior ....problem with seat staining from getting wet, seats replaced 2 times front and back still having the same problems ....3 water leaks.....replaced the carpets....car still smells mildew...Is this Toyota quality???? Toyota needs to do something!!!!!!! I had a 2005 matrix - good little car, shouldnt have ever traded in.

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  Overall great, fun car - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Nectars1 - May 27 - 8:56 am

  I bought this car just before winter and so far I love it. Its so much fun to drive, its sporty without paying for a sports car. It handles very well in the snow as well. I definitely think it hits bumps pretty hard but thats really my only complaint. Its extremely smooth and easy to shift between gears. I think its a great car for the money. Its backed by the Toyota reputation!

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  You cant be told what the Matrix is - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Teebone - May 23 - 4:00 am

  Ive had this car for a week and I dont want to get out of it! I held out for the 2.4L Matrix and it was well worth the wait. Handles great, corners great, steering is a bit numb but the acceleration more than makes up for it. The 4-wheel independent suspension and 18" rims sold me for the XRS model... a real head-turner. This car is the sportiest thing a 63" driver can fit in and still have some resemblance of a back seat left. Getting in and out is a bit snug but once you find your settings it fells like you are part of the car. Vehicle Stability Control does make a noticeable difference. I’ve been too excited to calculate MPG yet but all other features have lived up to the spec sheet.

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  2009 Toyota Matrix - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By 2009 Toyota Matrix - May 14 - 3:20 am

  I have had my Matrix for one year today and have loved every minute of it. I drove my first Matrix as a rental car in 2005 and had wanted one ever since but did not like the 1.8 liter engine. When I found out that the car had been redesigned in 2009 with a 2.4 liter engine I jumped on the chance to get it. The gas mileage is a little low but is well worth it in my book. I would definitely recommend the Matrix if you want both the hauling capability of a small truck and the ability to haul four people easily.

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  Harsh Ride Has Gotten Better - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By twocruzin - February 20 - 2:40 am

  No problems with this car in the 15 months Ive had it. My only complaint is the way it rides on those low profile tires (45s). I think I have finally figured out the best air pressure for the best ride at 4k elevation. Ive gone from the recommended pressure of 32 psi up to 35 and down to 30 and then 28. At 28, the ride was pretty good, but you could tell the tires were a bit soft as the handling was just a little mushy. Plus its not really recommended to go that low as the tires can heat up excessively and cause a blow out. All this said, Ive now gone to the other extreme and am running them at 38 psi, and this actually is the best yet. I think Ill leave them there.

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  Great commuter car - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By matrixgirl09 - January 22 - 5:50 pm

  Good gas mileage. Sits higher than other cars but if you come from an SUV then youll like it. Heated side mirrors are great for the ice/snow. Plenty of room inside. Visibility is ok, better than other small cars. Engine is good enough even though its a base model. I am small enough that it turns the airbag off when I get in, so that is a nice safety feature. Very little noise and vibration.

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  2009 Matrix Air Bags Didnt Deploy - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By jeannie - November 4 - 9:10 am

  Just wanted everyone to know that in regards to collisions and air bags, Toyota may not be the safest way to go. I just had a full frontal car accident, where the air bags did not deploy. The impact was received at at least 35 mph and not one air bag deployed. I was able to walk away from the accident with minor pain, the car did not. Rescue crew was puzzled on why the airbags did not deploy. Just glad I was the only one in the car and the kiddies werent there.

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  Reliable and Practical - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By axiom - October 10 - 3:16 pm

  Im echoing what CarParker already mentioned - he has said the best. It really is a sport hatch for the pragmatic. This car feels confident on the highway and quick in the city. I personally prefer the styling of this Matrix to a lot of its competitors out there. They did a great job with the front grill. The suspension is hard and the ride can be rough in the city, but this is expected from a car of this type. Nonetheless, the stability control works well. Brakes are excellent and the seat are very comfortable for me (Im about 511 200 lbs). Comfort is a premium for me since I have issues with my knees for long journeys. Overall, this matrix gives you a smooth ride and great gas mileage.

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  Great car and deal! - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Chuck - September 13 - 1:56 pm

  Just bought this car and I am really enjoying driving and looking at it! I love the position of the stick and it is so much fun to shift. I thought I wanted the bigger engine but I find the 1.8 plenty of power. It is a great combination of fun, practicality and economy. You cant beat the deals Toyota is offering now. Way below invoice! Shop around if you cant get it. Great for driving the roads of the Wine County in Sonoma County. Come visit!