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 11 through 20 of 104.00

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  Decent car - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Jason - September 3 - 6:23 pm

  As a previous Matrix owner I had certain expectations for the new model. My previous was a 2005 XR, my new model is the larger motor S with a 5 speed auto. The new model has much better pickup and feels more confident on the road. The downside to this is the fuel economy is lackluster. My best mileage when all highway miles was just at 30 mpg. My old matrix I averaged 30 overall with a lot of city driving, and had more than a few 36 mpg tanks. So far after only 5800 miles Ive averaged 23 mpg with this car. For comparison, my old V6 Oldsmobile Alero got better mileage. Im very disappointed in the fuel economy of the larger engine, I keep my tires inflated properly and drive conservatively.

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  So far a fantastic econimic family car - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By sunburst metallic - May 27 - 10:03 pm

  We bought this car last month. We have only had it for about two weeks, but because of a move we have already put over 2k miles on it. We made 3 400 mile drives within a week on it, and I have to say wow. We avg about 32 mpg on the freeway. I am not a slow driver either. Avg speed was about 75 mph. A lot of time spent cruising at 80 mph. The car has decent pick up and go, it is not a race car, but it is enough to be comfortable. We have two young children that fit comfortably in the back seat with plenty of room. Though the Mazda 3 was more fun to drive, this won out because it was so much more practical. A perfect family car for those that want room with out driving an suv or minivan.

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  Luv that Matrix? - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By george - January 21 - 3:13 pm

  We have owned the Matrix for a year. We purchased at the peak of the gas price run last year and its clear that Toyota gave us no price breaks. We paid $21,000 for the 2 wheel drive car. Its a fun peppy hard riding car with style. Its got poor visibility out the back and only OK mileage. I have the metallic red, no paint chips so far!

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  Great car - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Chhatric - January 10 - 4:26 pm

  Had it for over a month and I am enjoying driving it. The car has good power and very smooth. I like the styling of the 09 Matrix and the interior is very well designed. Hopefully it will last me for years to come.

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  solid little car - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Martin Hanish - December 20 - 2:26 am

  We bought our Matrix early in January and have already put a few thousand miles on it. the conditions here in Maine have been tough - lots of snow, ice, temperatures down near zero. The Matrix has performed extremely well under all conditions. It is a safe, dependable little car.

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  Great gas - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By k-man - November 28 - 2:30 pm

  I traded in my Toyota Tacoma because of the gas prices & because I drive 80 miles a day. Im getting 35 miles to the gallon highway. Its unbelievable. Of course I had slowed my driving down to 65 to 70 miles & hour & filled my tires to 35 lbs. But to get a pretty good looking car w/ 1.8L engine & fun to drive @ the same time get good gas mileage, what else can you say. Nothing.

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  Not as good as I thought it would be - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By greenplant - June 17 - 2:03 am

  Gets great gas mileage (avg 33 mpg in mixed driving), comfortable, easy to get in and out, plenty of power in the base model AT, but fit and finish is horrible, rattles in several places, exterior paint chips all over the front (I say paint is bubbling, dealer says road debris), if thats the case, the design is poor, it looks good, but the paint will be destroyed by simple everyday driving. This has never occurred with other cars Ive owned and driven on the very same roads.

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  Mixed Feelings - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Kathleen - April 5 - 12:30 am

  I bought my 09 in July and already have over 9000 miles on it. Gas mileage, the main reason I bought it, is GREAT. It drives well too. I am upset with the Dealer market $ add-on and having to add all the extras, too. I added cruise control, leather, tinted windows, tow hitch, up graded rear view mirror, up graded radio. I wanted power seats, but they werent available. I think Toyota needs to improve the quality and comfort.

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  Mad - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By mary - August 14 - 10:40 pm

  I bought the Matrix because I heard Toyota was a great car. I owned my Matrix for a month when I noticed paint chips on the hood, roof & back bumper. Took it to the dealership, they had the hood redone & touched up the roof & the bumper. That upset me. I thought it should have been repainted. Mind you I spent the extra 2000 & for the protective coating. One month later its chipping on the hood & roof again. They sent me to the gentleman who repainted & touched it up the first time. I dont believe its his fault. They should be dealing with it.

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  My Matrix Design Saved My Life - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By staylor80 - July 18 - 10:00 am

  I bought the Martix for its carrying capacity & for my dog. BUT, it was destroyed two days ago in a 5 car collision. I was rear ended 3 times at 55 mph, & struck pick up in front of me. I walked away with minor injuries. EMS & police all commented on the quality of how the vehicle stood up under that assault and the EC nurses were amazed. So, I will be replacing it with a new 2010 model later this week with NO hesitation. The only thing is, Im looking for way to keep cargo contents from flying around in a crash (things too big for the net that came with the car).