Overview & Reviews

Heading into a redesign for 2009, Toyota makes no changes to the Matrix this year.

• Comfortable ride, roomy backseat, versatile cargo area, impressive fuel economy

• Modest low-end power, important features like ABS and side airbags remain optional.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 31.00

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  Matrix 08--so far so good - 2008 Toyota Matrix
  By matrixdriver - August 1 - 4:13 am

  I needed the most fuel efficient car I could find that could still carry a bunch of stuff. There were some good hybrid options, but they were too pricey and Im unsure about the battery technology. So, I checked out the Matrix, Fit, and Mazda 3. They are all good cars that would have worked, but I went with the Matrix because I got a pretty good price, got a long warranty, and it had all the features I needed. Had a little more space than the Fit and was more comfortable in the driving position. I was also hoping to have something very reliable, and Toyota along with the Corolla this is based on, seemed perfect. 23,000 miles in it still seems like the right choice.

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  So far, so good - 2008 Toyota Matrix
  By Lee - November 11 - 11:13 pm

  I recently totalled my 02 Pathfinder and settled on the Matrix. I like the seats but the doors arm-rest does not accommodate my long arms. The vehicle was a good choice for me after considering a lot of other vehicles, it was the best overall purchase for the money.

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  Purchased in Sept. 07 - 2008 Toyota Matrix
  By Tashadog - December 25 - 12:10 am

  I decided on purchasing a Toyota Matrix in Sept., after my new 07 Chevy Malibu was totalled in a car accident in August. It took me a little while to get attached to the Matrix, as I really liked the Malibu. Im getting almost 30 MPG (all city driving) with the Matrix. Its just a basic car - no bells and whistles, but its comfortable and, being a Toyota, Im expecting it to be around for a long time. Though it looks a bit small, Im actually able to fit my family of five in comfortably.

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  So far, so good - 2008 Toyota Matrix
  By satisfied9 - June 21 - 8:51 am

  Driven it for 2 weeks and its OK so far. 1) It has adequate acceleration despite having only a 1.8L engine (no cargo/people). 2) Dashboard gauges OK except reading speed gets a little fuzzy when between 60 & 80 (only in increments of 20) so you may have to glance at it more then once (distracting) if you dont want to go over the limit. 3) Location of transmission stick is too close to climate control knobs especially when in park (no hand room) 4) Daylight running headlights (dashboard light) always on which I found annoying/confusing but getting use to. Considering getting it disabled if I go with better bulbs for night driving. 5) Noisy/feel road when driving - tolerable

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  It squeaks - 2008 Toyota Matrix
  By rgaetano - October 17 - 12:20 pm

  We are a Toyota family, but are considering switching after this model. The passenger side door continually "squeaks." We are told to "lubricate" the door, but have never had to "lubricate" doors on Camrys, Corollas, or Echos that we have owned. Very disappointing.

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  My aching back and shoulders - 2008 Toyota Matrix
  By Nicki - August 7 - 7:16 am

  I wanted a matrix for so long! I was so excited to finally get one! Unfortunately that excitement is turning into misery. First off, Im not terribly picky. Ive never considered a little road noise to be an issue or felt the need to drive a car with the high end comfort. Comfort was something I completely took for granted, until now, The steering position is so awkward! I have the seat all the way forward, but still I must reach for the wheel. This puts a lot of strain on my shoulders. And something is not right about the head rests, they push my head FOREWARD! The passenger seat and back seats arent bad, just the drivers seat. As for road/wind noise, Its really bad.

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  Great Car - 2008 Toyota Matrix
  By RIDG3RUNN3R - September 11 - 4:30 pm

  I have put 15k on my matrix already in 5 months. We have been up and down the east coast, including snow in the Adirondacks this November. I have camped out of it on several occasions. This vehicle is a very reliable and versatile machine. I recommend it to anyone. Competes with any Subaru, if it isnt better. I have carried canoes, bikes, kayaks and skis. It handles well even fully loaded.

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  A great upgrade from a 96 geo tracker - 2008 Toyota Matrix
  By dlbrooks - March 19 - 2:03 am

  When I purchased my Matrix I was looking for something that would be good on gas and my dog could fit in. Well I got both. I figured that the car would do well in the snow being front wheel. We had a big snow storm recently and I wasnt impressed how the car handled itself. I did not feel safe driving in the snow and ice. Other than that this car is perfect for me, my husband and dog. It will hold all kinds of things in the cargo area with the back seat still up!! I purchased the dog gate and it works great. Everyone who has seen my car or rode in it love it. They rave about it. I might however buy a 4wdrive in the near future for safety reasons only.