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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  Fourbanger Fun - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Chris R - March 25 - 12:50 am

  I love the XRS. I actually had a XR and it was a great car too, but I wanted something in a manual. This is a fast little car at approx. 4500 RPM. What is great you dont have to go that high and drive it economically. For a car that is fun, roomy, comfortable, decent MPG, and sporty. Look no further.

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  Great car! - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Jill - March 24 - 6:23 am

  I bought this car new in May 02 after waiting for someone to bring out a new 4-door hatchback for years. Ive had 4- door manual transmission hatchbacks my whole life and after my Tercel died in 96 was making do with a used Honda wagon. The Matrix is the best all- around car Ive owned--roomy inside, small enough outside to park and maneuver easily, lots of user-friendly comfort features, super-dependable, good safety features, and GREAT mileage (average is about 33). A super blend of commuter car and SUV-like carrying capacity. All seats are comfortable and the flat-fold rear and passenger seats make it easy to load all sorts of things that would be hard to get into other vehicles.

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  A Very Good Buy - 2007 Toyota Matrix
  By Littleshoes - March 21 - 1:16 pm

  After 1,000 miles, I have no regrets. Bought for its gas mileage and versatile interior which are even better than I expected. Ave. 29 mpg local and 37 mpg highway. Drivers seat is high, but Im short so its fine. Added side air bags, stability and traction control, ABS, window tint and leather seats. The versatile interior is great whether carrying groceries or lumber. A more powerful engine would be nice, but Ill take the mpg. A comfortable car mostly driven locally. I have no doubt this was an excellent purchase.

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  Money well spent! - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Glen Frizzell - March 18 - 9:56 am

  Its almost as fun as my MR2, cooler than a minivan, slowly chews the dinosaurs (gas), is functional inside and people love my indigo ink exterior. Weve owned 2 other Toyota vehicles over the last 20 years - my wife and I put over 500,000 miles (not kilometres) on both and spent just under $900.00 Canadian total in unexpected (not routine maintenance) cost between them!

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  The Matrix - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By Chantel - March 12 - 5:06 am

  I absolutely love this car! Its my 3rd car, 2nd toyota. Reliability is awesome, gas mileage is as good as can be expected, low on inner city stop/go, great hwy. Its comfortable, great radius and handling on curves/bad weather. So much room-left the east coast for the west and all I took was my car and the stuff I fit inside-it was great! Also a great outdoors car-who needs a tent, when the seat recline w/so much room. I feel like a commercial, but I love it and everyone who drives it also loves it in the end, even if theyre skeptical at first. You get the space, without giving up the sport. I cannot find any major faults-boo to those who find superficial gripes.

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  1st Month - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By dave_duvall1 - March 12 - 2:00 am

  Gotta say, love the car. Couple of minor factory quirks, squeak in the dash quickly fixed by the dealer. Fun to drive and great gas mileage. Im a 6 foot plus man and have plenty of room for myself and someone in the back set behind me.

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  XRS Review (Toronto Canada) - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By nrg3k - March 12 - 2:00 am

  I love this car! i drove a Civic HB for five years, and this was a natural replacement. The more powerful engine is lots of fun, and still gets good mileage when need on long trips. I drove from Toronto to Banff with two passengers and loved every mile.

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  BE CAREFUL IN HEAVEY TRAFFIC - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Rick in Atlanta - March 7 - 10:00 am

  I have had the car fo a year. Good looking car and happy with the build quality. Interior comfort is great and has a lot of storage. Had the car back to the dealer 4 times for the brakes with no resolution. They are soft and undersized for the car. Mileage is not near what they claim.

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  I finally got the car I wanted! - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By f/w wahoo - March 5 - 10:00 am

  Great car/suv/wagon. All the flexibility of an suv without the extra cost and low fuel mileage. Great MPG, great interior and exterior design. I can take my dog and all my stuff and still have room for more. All the car I wanted at a reasonable price

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  Great Car For The Price - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Randall Stevens - March 5 - 10:00 am

  One test drive at the dealership and I was hooked. I recommend getting the XR sport package with fog lights, moon roof, and the 17" alloy wheels over anything. The base model is missing some of the more fun features of the XR, while the top of the line XRS has the more powerful 180 HP engine. However, you really wont notice a difference with the added HP until youre at higher speeds (50+ MPH) and its not worth the extra $3,000 or so the dealership will hit you up for. Overall the Matrix XR is a great car and the reasonable pricing makes it well worth it.