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 21 through 30 of 104.00

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  Love my Matrix - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By RM - August 8 - 9:56 pm

  Great performance, so far has been reliable. Ive enjoyed driving this car. Handles great. Headrest is very uncomfortable, causes pain in the neck and back. A little hard on fuel. Other than that I would say Matrix is a great car, I have a S AWD.

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  Good value - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Baystater - July 3 - 2:20 pm

  Bought an09 base model 1.8L manual with power package June 1 of 2008 for 16K. Have 13500 miles on it. Smooth ride, smooth shifting, excellent stability control for cornering, excellent disc brakes, decent gas mileage (28-29 city and 34-35 highway), good cargo capacity (can fit my bike w/o taking wheel off), very readable dash, adjustable telescopic steering wheel, seat comfort lacking in lumbar support, poor paint job (easily scratches from road debris), and horrible rear visibility (almost didnt buy it because of poor visibility). Given price difference with a Prius, e.g. 16K vs 23K, I figured it was a better value. Glad I bought it.

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  awesome car !! - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By barbara - June 29 - 4:33 am

  I just got the AWD Matrix yesterday. I love it !! I am down sizing from a Toyota 4 Runner. Its fun and easy to drive. As fast as a bullet ! I got the radiant red loaded one. I have never had so much fun driving a car. I am 47 years old.

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  Love Matrix 2, 1.8 touring 5 sp manual - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Robtech - September 18 - 12:53 am

  This 2nd generation has better roadholding, theres no front wheel spin, it really holds the road well especially when climbing. I got 32mpg in mixed driving. Noticeable low end torque between 1900rpm to 2800rpm. I love this 2ZRFE 1.8L engine.

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  i like it - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By dragon - May 30 - 1:40 pm

  taken on 3 long trips over 300 miles each never had any problems w/noise or anything else i find it a joy to drive and still get great mileage approx 28 in town

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  Love it - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By mvw - March 28 - 11:36 pm

  Bought the 2009 Matrix S a month ago with 10K on it. I love it so far. We traded in 2003 Kia spectra LS, and felt the Kia’s interior is built better with better materials. Some of the interior rattles and feels like cheap plastic. The engine of the 2.4 has great pick up. I am concerned about the paint on the car, it appears to chip fairly easy. This is the first Toyota I have owned so I do not have much to compare it to.

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  Finally! - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By annette - February 12 - 8:46 pm

  I didnt know the Matrix existed. I hated the car I was driving, so I went to the Toyota place to look at Scion, but saw the Matrix in the showroom. I was hooked. I love the dropdown seats and the fact that they are flat. The seats are comfy and everything on the dash is easy to get to. The doors dont close on my legs, large and roomy.

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  Pratical yet fun - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Toyotalover4eva - January 22 - 10:23 pm

  I recently traded in my 04 4runner sport for this car. During my car hunt, my biggest concern was the mpg so, I searched for a gas saver but didnt want to sacrifice looks and performance. I ended up with two choices, the jetta wolfsburg and the matrix. I ended up with the matrix given it was more reliable, cheaper on insurance and not too pricey to maintain. Overall I am satisfied with my decision. The looks are awesome both inside and out. Im kinda disappointed with such a small fuel tank. I mean, Im saving gas but finding myself filling up more often. I also think the ride is so-so. I dont know if its just me but I feel every bump on the road which can get annoying but I can deal with it

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  An Update - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By twocruzin - December 1 - 12:36 pm

  This is an update to a previous review. I have had this car for 14 months now and 17000 miles. It still runs as flawlessly as when I bought it and the ride is still as harsh as it was at the beginning. It rides okay on highways or the interstate, but its quite rough on less than ideal city streets. The suspension is quite hard. I mean the car barely moves when I push on the front bumper. I have not had the paint chip problem that many reviewers comment on. I have metallic paint on mine. Im not sure if all models do, but my experience has been that metallic paint holds up much better. Other than the ride, everything has been good - build quality, handling, appearance.

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  Matrix doesnt disappoint - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By greg - September 2 - 3:20 pm

  The Matrix replaced a 2001 Dodge minivan. We hoped to retain cargo flexibility, improve gas mileage, vehicle handling and reliability. With care in packing, the Matrix had ample camping room using a 10 c.f. soft carrier pack on the roof. Skis can be stored inside or on top. Gas mileage has averaged 30 mpg combined; 32 mpg- highway. The car is quiet, steering responsive, holds the road, suspension somewhat stiff, solid feel overall. For its weight, engine, and transmission combination, acceleration is quite good. Seating is comfortable with ample back seat room. The more I drive it, the more I appreciate its subtle qualities. A car to buy for long term value and not for instant gratification