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:

• 

  Mainly happy - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By GMcGuire - January 11 - 3:30 pm

  Ive been mainly happy, when you treat the thing like a motorcycle and bang off the redline at 6,000 rpm in 1st thru 3rd it works not too badly. Engine slow idle is a bit lumpy, and it lacks a bit of power with the a/c on. Absolutely must have 4 good snow tires installed, its very light and it steps around quite a bit even on wet pavement. Great gas mileage, lots of room and functionality.

• 

  its cool - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Jerire Boghossian - January 3 - 10:00 am

  The Matrix XR is the best car to drive. Its very nice car, so sexy and its fun to drive. you wont get tired of driving.

• 

  Get One Before Theyre Gone - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By Paradoxfalls - December 31 - 12:36 am

  I love the 2006 Toyota Matrix. Its a well-built, peppy, fuel economic car thats fun to drive. The only problem we have with it is that the small rear windows (hatch and behind the doors) create bigger blind spots, but once you get to know the car, its not so bad. My husband and I bought this car after our 2005 Matrix was totaled. A speeding drunk driver jumped a sloped median, landing his Jeep Cherokee V8 on the hood of our Matrix, then flipped over and crushed part of our roof. My husband and I were injured, but WE WALKED AWAY, vowing to buy another Matrix since that one saved our lives. I heard that the Matrix may be replaced in Toyotas line-up, so get one while you can!

• 

  Loving it - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Jaycee - December 29 - 10:00 am

  I absolutely love this car!!! I have searched long and hard to find an affordable, reliable, and stylish car to fit my needs. The search is over. Im able to zip (and I mean zip)around inexpesively with three friends and my two German Shepherds and still have room!

• 

  reliable fun - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Ben Morales - December 29 - 10:00 am

  My wife and I have had this car for about a year now. This is the fifth new car we have purchase since 1991 and is by far the one that never makes me wish I bought something else. Gas milage is great, looks are awsome, and the fun factor is always there. Even when the weather was bad, the snowstorms in the northeast, this car never felt like it was out of its element. My Matrix is truly reliable fun on wheels!

• 

  Awesome SUV alternative coming from Jeep - 2010 Toyota Matrix
  By Anonymous - December 28 - 9:23 pm

  I have been driving small to mid size SUV from Nissan, Toyota, and Jeep brand. However gas was just killing my wallet driving SUV. So i sold my gas guzzler to get a new car and I got the 2010 Toyota Matrix S AWD with sports pkg and alloy wheels. On conservative driving i get a combined MPG of 24, and on aggressive driving i get around 21 which are within spec. Lots of power with the 2.4 L engine with VVT-i system just like the lexus with torque on demand without lag. Powerband is most part linear with lots more room to go up. Reliability has been good with steep discounts and complimentary free maintenance given by the dealer for 2 years. This car definitely saving me money

• 

  A roomy car with a good ride - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By Charlie - December 28 - 4:20 am

  The car is very roomy, has a good ride, good pickup, but the engine groans when shifting into higher gears.

• 

  Matrix XR - 2007 Toyota Matrix
  By Brian - December 27 - 12:26 pm

  Car handles pretty well. Also pretty generic looking car with number of issues. 1) My new car dash rattles ( I know, take it to the dealer). 2) 4 speaker stereo is bad, you cant hear it when sitting on back seats. Back seats are very uncomfortable, too. 3) Interior seat covers cheap. 4) Outside paint is very thin and pretty easy to scratch.

• 

  Could be better. - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By CJ - December 20 - 6:20 am

  Had a 93 Corolla. Decided to buy a Matrix based on experience w/ Toyota. This is a typical Toyota, very well built, drives fine. Driver legroom is not good, Im 6-0. Right leg has very little room between the dash and center console. Drivers seat is very uncomfortable. I seem to fall to the right side in it. Hope it just needs breaking in but fear otherwise. Odometer/trip meter cycles with small button behind wheel that you cant push while driving. Cant see both trip/odo @ same time. I like to always see the odo. Air controls badly placed behind shifter. Cargo cover chintzy. Forced to buy cargo pad as none standard, cargo will shift w/out one. Based on legroom & seat comfort may not keep car very long.

• 

  I LOVE MY MATRIX - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By PLANTGIRL - December 17 - 2:00 am

  THIS IS SUCH A GREAT CAR! I LOVE ALL THE SPACE AND THE WAY IT LOOKS. HONESTLY, THIS IS THE IDEAL CAR FOR ME...GREAT GAS MILEAGE, AFFORDABLE, SMALL CAR WITH LOTS OF SPACE. I COULDNT HAVE ASKED FOR MORE!