2009 Toyota Matrix Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.36/5 Average
104 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

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.

Pros:
  • Smooth and quiet ride, ergonomic cabin layout, adult-friendly backseat, perfectly flat load floor makes it an excellent cargo hauler.
Cons:
  • Mediocre gas mileage with 2.4-liter engine, tepid driving dynamics.

User Reviews:

Showing 71 through 80 of 104.00
  • Good looks, poor ride - 2009 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    Weve nicknamed our Matrix the "covered wagon" because of how horrendous the ride is. Every bump, pot hole, and dip is magnified many times over by the fact that the "sporty suspension" makes this car feel like it has no shocks whatsoever. Its loud, rough, and we regret the day we bought it. Spare yourself the pain and pass this one by.

  • Owned for over one year - 2009 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    This car drives very easily, however the fit and finish is horrible, rattles since day one, tire issue within 1st 3 mos. Toyota service awful, seems very cheap, not worth the price, poor paint quality, paint is chipping off the hood, design looks nice, but the front end needs a redesign to prevent the damage done to it from simple everyday driving.

  • My First car, and its AWESOME! - 2009 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    I recently baught a brand new Toyota Matrix XR, and I have never been more impressed with a car then I am with this. The 2.4L engine is smooth and powerful, providing loads of passing and acceleration power. The interior and exterior are impressive, the exterior being sleek and sexy while the interior being easy on the eye and inviting. Ive averaged 30+ mpg in mostly city driving. The steering is a tad numb, but that doesnt bother me as everything else about the car is totally amazing. The biggest selling point for me, being 6 feet tall and long in the leg,is that I can sit comfortably in the car thanks to vertical height adjustment for the drivers seat and a telescoping steering wheel.

  • Perfect car for me! - 2009 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    The only regret I have with my Matrix is that I didnt get it in RED! I have a white matrix and everything about it soooo wonderful! I love my car and it drives well on the road, although I am still in the process of breaking it in so I am still careful with it. I still have to find my perfect driving spot in the drivers seat but it is comfortable. I get good mileage on this car (28 mpg) and I believe this will improve with time. Radio reception fluctuates every now and then and I dont know if its the signal or the equipment itself but I am so glad that theres the mp3 plug. Very, very nice improvement on the total new look. I still wish I got it in RED. :)

  • Awesome Car - 2009 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    Purchased to replace Chevy Blazer. I really love this car. Very fast for what you would expect. I am normally very nervous driving in snow but the Matrix handles extremely well. I have not even fishtailed once this season.I would recommend this to anyone.

  • Vibration Issue - 2009 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    The Matrix has been a fun car to drive and I have enjoyed it greatly over the 2006 Corolla I traded in. I dont enjoy the 35 MPG that I did with the Corolla, but I have been averaging about 27. The car has pep as I easily find myself doing 80 in a 45 without noticing. I have been experiencing a vibration on the light console above the gear selector (Map Console?). The vibrations occur only when the sun is low or set, but will start even on a smooth road. I am chalking it up to thermal expansion of the roof when it is in the sun. Has anyone else experienced this? I can not get Toyota to fix because alas, the service department is not open when it is dark out.

  • Two Months now - 2009 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    I brought this after having a Toyota Camry wagon for years, and a Subaru Outback for past 7 years. In two months I have put only 1500 on it. I love this car, got 34 with NO AC on a longer trip, getting 20-22 around town. Both above EPA estimates for this 2.4 auto. Love the handling and pep, the styling is distinctive and attractive, many compliments. On the practical side, hey I never buy a vehicle I cant sleep in, and this is no exception with lots of room, love the folding FPassenger seat. Roofrack is study for bike. Its a sporty hatchback/small wagon, and a welcome change from poor mileage with Subaru AWD, which I do not need in Central Virginia.

  • A nice small hatchback. - 2009 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    I needed an economical, affordable, and reliable car for around town and to commute to work in. The Matrix fits what I need exactly, its big enough for a child seat in the back seat, has the versatility of a "mini" SUV, is pretty stylish, and is actually fun (enough) to drive every day. The 1.8L with 5 speed wont win any races, but is surprisingly smooth and refined, especially on the highway. I know a lot of reviews on the new Matrix are filled with critics, but I really think its a great little car for what it tries to be. Our other car is a Lexus, and our 3rd Lexus - the Matrix gauges have the same feel of the new IS, really. Give the Matrix a shot, Im glad I didnt buy a Civic.

  • Great Car and Ride - 2009 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    We are still in the process of breaking it in we only have a few miles. We did a lot of looking at other models and the Matrix won us over. The 1.8L I4 EFI engine has plenty of power when needed. The 2009 Matrix has great safety features. The finish is first rate. Have driven other models and the 2009 Matrix has great visbility and it is easy to get in and out of. The seats are very comfortable and the back seat has plenty of leg room. We get lots of compliments. Toyota needs to advertise the Matrix. People with other new models have compliment us and said that they wish they had heard of the Matrix.

  • A new day - 2009 Toyota Matrix
    By -

    I was impressed by the utility, and the ease of driving. The new look is what attracted me to this car. I had overlooked the car for this very reason. The car is nimble and even tho its the smaller engine, there is enough go for me. The fit and finish appears to be first rate.

Toyota Matrix Reviews By Year:
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