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 51 through 60 of 104.00

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  Love it! - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Love it - November 19 - 12:56 pm

  From a woman point of view I love the car! I like the way it looks. But my husband has enjoyed it also. The interior space is surprisingly big; I mean, I knew everybody talks about the cargo space, but as a passenger you do have lots of room to play with. It has a nice turn to it, it is a smooth drive.

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  Good so far - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Pleased so far - October 24 - 3:23 pm

  Ive had this car for a year now and have put 10,000 miles on it. I have been pleased so far. Paid $16,500 for base model with auto, air and power windows. Getting over 30 MPG in mixed highway/city driving. Keeping between 60-65 I can get about 38mpg on the highway. With the back seats down and the front seats up, a twin size air mattress will fit in back. The back seats have plenty of room for 2 adults. Handles relatively well in the snow. Despite all the news about recalls Ive had no problems with quality so far.

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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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  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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  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!

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  Very impressed - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By irene - January 27 - 2:13 am

  Downsized from a Buick Century for economical reasons and am very pleased. The comfort & handling of the Matrix is beyond what I thought it would be. I am very satisfied with the 1.8L engine, its enough for what I need, it has enough pick-up for passing, etc. Responds very nicely, turns tight corners, easy to park. Loved the colour choices... we picked charcoal gray.

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  Pleasure to own/drive since day one - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Evan - January 4 - 5:20 pm

  This car has been a pleasure to own/drive since day one. Toyota did an excellent job at making an inexpensive car look and feel twice what I paid for it. Also the headrest is perfect! If you are looking for a great car thats budget friendly this one is definitely worth a look.