Overview & Reviews

The Toyota Matrix was essentially a tall yet compact wagon, with a dash of cool, sporty style thrown in. It was typically marketed toward younger shoppers, though buyers of all ages were drawn to this car's many desirable attributes. Based on the Corolla sedan of its time, the Matrix was exceptionally versatile and well suited for hauling bulky cargo or transporting adult-sized passengers.

The main downside to the Matrix was that, apart from the relatively rare XRS variant, it was never particularly rewarding to drive. But for the practical-minded, this will likely be of little concern. Toyota sold two generations of the Matrix, and both boasted high fuel economy, a smooth ride, a roomy cabin, available all-wheel drive and reliable Toyota genes. Overall we think the Matrix is one of the best choices available for a used small wagon or hatchback.

Used Toyota Matrix Models

The second generation of the Toyota Matrix was produced from 2009-'13. Initial trim levels consisted of base, midlevel S and sporty, top-dog XRS.

The base model was powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder with 132 horsepower and 128 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission was standard and a four-speed automatic was optional -- both driving the front wheels. Upgrading to the Matrix S or XRS got you a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 158 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque. The S also offered an all-wheel-drive option. With this engine and front-wheel drive, one could choose between a five-speed manual or an optional five-speed automatic, while the AWD version only came with a four-speed automatic.

Standard feature highlights for the base L trim initially included air-conditioning, a 60/40-split/folding rear seat, a fold-flat front passenger seat, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, CD player and an auxiliary audio jack. Besides the more powerful engine, the Matrix S gained a rear wiper, full power accessories, cruise control, keyless entry and a premium audio system. The AWD version of the S gained foglights and an independent rear suspension. The Matrix XRS featured 18-inch alloy wheels, a roof spoiler, sport-tuned suspension and steering, upgraded seat fabric and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Key options, depending on trim level, included a sunroof, a JBL sound system, satellite radio and a navigation system. More standard features, such as full power accessories and cruise control for the base trim, were fitted as the years progressed.

Inside, the Matrix had enough space to carry items up to 8 feet long, and the cargo area's durable plastic load floor allowed one to transport a variety of items, from home improvement materials to bicycles to a kayak. It was also pretty comfortable for both front and rear passengers. The very easy-to-use controls were another positive.

On the road, the base Toyota Matrix was a bit pokey in terms of acceleration, though its engine did provide pretty good fuel economy. The extra torque from the 2.4-liter engine made the driving experience more relaxed, particularly in regards to passing. Driven around corners, the Matrix was balanced and predictable, and overall ride quality was very comfortable. Still, the second-generation Matrix was not a very exciting car to pilot, largely due to its numb-feeling steering.

Changes throughout the Matrix's second generation were usually minor, consisting of added standard features and shuffling of  trim levels. Stability control became standard for 2010 but the XRS and its sport-tuned suspension were discontinued for 2011. For 2012, Toyota renamed the base version the L.

The first-generation Toyota Matrix was introduced for the 2003 model year and ran until 2008. Toyota offered it in base, XR and XRS trim levels. The lower two trims came with a 130-hp, 1.8-liter engine and either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. The XRS came with a high-winding 180-hp 1.8-liter engine and an exclusive six-speed manual transmission. In 2006, the XRS' final year, the engine was re-rated to 164 hp due to new testing procedures, but actual performance was unchanged.

 In editorial reviews, we noted that the 1.8-liter equipped Matrix offered adequate acceleration in most circumstances, but its dearth of low-end torque was apparent on uphill grades. Manual-equipped Matrix wagons tended to offer more pep than those equipped with automatic transmissions. Handling was somewhat less than engaging; still, commuters and road trippers will likely appreciate the wagon's smooth, comfortable ride.

Inside, this Matrix charmed with its solid quality and versatility. Fit and finish was above average, and the cargo area and backside of the rear seats were finished with an easy-to-clean plastic as well as specialized cargo tracks.

If you're interested in a used first-generation Toyota Matrix, there are a few things to keep in mind. First of all, early Matrix models were missing a couple of important safety features: side airbags and stability control. These features were added (as options) in model-year 2005. Also note that stability control was offered only on models equipped with an automatic transmission. You also might encounter all-wheel-drive versions of the Matrix or Matrix XR; they produced slightly less power and came with the automatic only. All-wheel drive was discontinued for the 2007 model year.

User Reviews:

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  Mighty Matrix - 2008 Toyota Matrix
  By Larry Brixey - February 10 - 1:56 am

  We bought our Matrix because my wife fell in love with the design. After test driving it, we were sold on the leg and headroom. It was sluggish getting onto the freeway, so i went down to the local auto parts store and got a K&N air filter and it made an extreme difference. It has immediate acceleration and getting on the freeway is not a problem whatsoever! We are getting 35 MPG and it runs like a Toyota should. I would Highly recommend the K&N Air Filter! It makes a BIG difference.

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  Id buy another one - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By sbotero - February 8 - 10:00 am

  Perfect for a small size family. We are very please with the way it handles. What we paid for it was very reasonable, it came fully loaded. People complain about red lights, I find them very atractive and easy to read.

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  I love my Matrix! - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By Susan Roberts - February 7 - 2:46 pm

  We took delivery on our Toyota Matrix in February 2006. I love my Matrix! The car is comfortable to drive around town as well as on the interstate; lots of room for groceries, baggage, etc. It drives like a sports car, but has hauling capacity. And it gets great gas mileage. I couldnt be happier with this car!

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  The Right One - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By sunrrrrise - February 5 - 12:50 pm

  Purchased a Matrix after several test drives replacing an 02 Acura RSX. The The Matrix for 2006 has a sporty, fun ride, and versatile interior design with plenty of headroom for those over six footers. The air conditioning cooled quickly in todays 112 heat and the engine still had plenty of zip.Will use the Matrix for in town commuting and trips to Vegas. My friend, a BMW owner, stated that his Matrix was just as fun to drive as his Bemer.So there you have it.

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  Not Totally Happy - 2008 Toyota Matrix
  By Viper - January 30 - 9:10 pm

  I purchased this vehicle to replace the lemon I purchased in Feb of 2007. I was happy when I first purchased the vehicle, but then I realized that it tended to ride like I was in an old pick-up truck. It has been in the shop 3 times so far with brake issues and just seems to be getting worse. At this point I will not get another Toyota ever again because they are just not built like they were and the paint would start to fade.

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  Better than an SUV! - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Nancy - January 26 - 11:10 pm

  Great compromise car for those of us who need a roomy interior & 4 wheel drive but dont want the size of a gas guzzling SUV.

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  Great commuter car - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By matrixgirl09 - January 23 - 4:40 am

  I have had this car for almost 4 months and I like it a lot, I wanted the hatchback for carrying around stuff like my bike. I like that it sits higher off the ground like my suv did. Great gas mileage. The base model has enough power for me. The gauges take some getting used too, I can see them even with sunglasses on but in direct sunlight (usually at sunset) they can be hard to see.

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  Zoom-Zoom - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By Matrix Happy - January 19 - 10:46 pm

  I researched for this car configuration for 3 months. This car was just put on the dealership lot and had everything I specd out for this vehicle. The car was for my wife who is tiny and a school teacher as well as loves to drive a good sports car, this one is a great combination of both. We got all the whistles and bells including had leather seats added, beautiful car and extremely well priced for the total package compared to all others in and out of its class, a real upscale but well priced car and it is a Toyota. The best feature is the ease to get in and out of the car, no pulling up just step in and out with ease and convenience.

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  03 Matrix - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By nm - January 19 - 10:00 am

  great car , handles like a GTS

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  2006 Matrix 5 speed - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By sprice - January 18 - 10:23 pm

  Unbelievable fuel economy and interior space. Fun to drive, handles well. Not much acceleration at turnpike speeds (which is one reason why its so stingy with gas), but pretty peppy below 60 mph.