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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  Seen one, tested one, bought one - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By badmana - February 6 - 8:26 am

  Although Ive only been driving the XRS for 10 days, 18 hours I can tell you that the Matrix rocks. No rattling, noises or any problems except for maybe a burned clutch (first time driving a manual) this car is really fun to drive.

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  LEGROOM!! - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By SMAR - February 4 - 10:00 am

  I love everything about this car. I have never been so happy with a car. Even traded my Tundra. I am 6 foot tall and the space and headroom is great. Getting in and out of the car for me is easy. I have one big problem though. My left leg cannot straighten out because it hits the wheelwell! It is starting to affect me because I have to sit crooked, and my left foot and leg are getting sore because it butts-up against the plastic! There is no comfortable spot to rest it my leg. I am physically fit and the last thing I wanted to do was complain about the coolest car I ever owned and a Toyota. Does anyone else know what I am talking about?

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  Needs some improvements! - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By goat herder - January 31 - 12:23 pm

  Handling in any slightly icy or wet weather is very poor. Gear shifts are poor with the tachometer spiking up and down as automatic shifts into gears. No room in tire hold for a real tire. I prefer not to use the donut. When I was removing a package from the passenger side, a handle flipped over the gear shift and the car jumped into reverse! (Ignition was still on but had been in park.) Fueel economy is nowhere near the sticker. Best I have gotten (100 per day highway driving) is 26 mpg. Whenever the weather is cold or wet, fuel economy drops and the "sticking" problem with the gears increases. At times it feels like I have to push the car to get it to move.

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  Expensive repairs - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By A.Barnett - January 27 - 10:46 pm

  I switched from SUVs to this car for fuel economy. It is fun to drive, but repairs are costly. Air conditioner repair was over $1000 and the brake rotors warped at 39000 miles -another $550. Toyota acknowledges no responsibility. This is my last Toyota.

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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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  Love this car - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By tharing - January 22 - 2:00 am

  From the moment I saw it I wanted it. I havent been disappointed yet. Lots of fun to drive and handles well. Not much of anything bad to say except it could be a bit more sound proof. Outside noise when driving on the highway isnt very good. Noise reduction hopefully in 2005 will improve.

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  A good Deal - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By sunbunny - January 22 - 2:00 am

  Only three problems--noisy on the highway ; that lower front "thing" gets scraped easily on its underside becasuse its so low; red dash lights sometimes make it difficult to see numbers when it is sunny.

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  Great car - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By frst toyota - January 19 - 4:50 pm

  This is my first Toyota, but it wont be my last. This is a fun little car that is nimble and fun to drive. The AWD is a must here in the mountains and this car gets great mileage also. There is good visibility from the drivers seat and good take-off from the little four. The a/c works well enough to keep everyone cool. We love this little wagon.

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  Fun, sharp-looking, economical, reliable - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Dave B. - January 13 - 10:46 am

  My 2004 Matrix is only the second car Ive owned in 20 years (my 1994 Audi finally died). I was reluctant to "trade down" to a Toyota, but I now have no regrets. This roomy, versatile vehicle is the same size as my little Audi (I measured!), and has a smaller turning radius, too. I have a 5-speed manual transmission that is smooth and fun to use. Driver visibility is fine all around, CD/radio sound system is quite good unless youre traveling at more than 50 MPH, when road noise competes. Cargo/passenger/folding seat options are terrific. Driver seat is very comfortable, even on 4-hour highway trips (cant say the same for the Audi!)Im averaging 30 mpg on regular fuel.

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  Japanese Beauty - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Moises Martinez - January 12 - 10:03 pm

  Man This Car is awesome!!! Its a monster on the street and it takes out all of the Civics on the street.Thats why I love My Matrix XRS. Keep up the good work Toyota,you hit a homerun with this one.