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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  No Matrix pun/ movie tie in here! - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By spaceacealpha - December 17 - 2:00 am

  This is an excellent car for its price range. If I had a chance to do it all over again, I would do the same and get the XR. The XRS has a more powerful engine, only at 5500RPM. Below that it has the same HP as the others, even the base model. It doesnt have as many aftermarket accessories as the XR either. You can add the currently available engine accessories to the XR and get just as much power with a full powerband over the RPM range. IE: A supercharged XR with CAI can beat a stock XRS. This has been proven on the track. I love my XR and I cant wait to start hopping it up with custom accessories!

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  leaks & rattles - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By b.mclearen - December 16 - 10:00 am

  Very versatile car but has lots of rattles in dash and drivers door. The cooling system adeveloped a leak early on. Not typical Toyota quality. Also, is not a "full-Time" 4 wheel drive as advertised by Toyota. Works like the CRV. Front drive until slippage is detected and then up to 50% of the power is transferred to the rear wheels.

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  Great Car - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Greg - December 11 - 12:46 am

  This may be the best car Ive ever owned. Very well designed from an ergonomic standpoint. I now have 147000 miles on it and havent spent a nickel on it for maintenance beyond the obvious (oil changes, brakes, tires and the like). I check my gas mileage at every fill-up, that being my "thing," and get 30mpg if I have been throwing caution to the wind, and upwards to 33 mpg if I slow down; most of my driving is on the highway. It isnt the quietest car I have been in but it is comfortable. I do find I have to be quite careful to look backwards for a blind spot. However in this age of craving hybrids, this is a great car with the standard internal combustion engine.

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  Great Ride - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By The Barbarian - December 8 - 7:10 am

  I bought the matrix because I needed a utility vehicle that had good gas mileage. The back seats fold perfectly flat, and with the front passenger seat down, I have 8 ft of plastic covered space I can haul lumber and gardening stuff in for home projects.

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  Matrix Headache - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Carsrus - December 5 - 11:33 pm

  I purchased this car new with the intent of keeping it a long time with Toyotas reputation. This is the 5th brand new car I have purchased and my first Toyota. It is also my last Toyota. I have never had more problems or put more money into maintaining a car than this one. I just traded this car in with only 83,000 miles on it because I did not want to sink any more repair money into it. Unusual problem areas: neck to gas tank was rusting and would not allow gas cap to seal so car will not pass state emission tests - cost of total repair was over a thousand. Transmission failures after 80k on Matrix (cost over 3k).

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  Turns heads around - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Noorali Charania - December 2 - 10:50 pm

  The most elegant looking, economical spacious like a van and the best value for money. Compare the looks with a 40K Lexus RX 330 and compare the storage space after folding seats with an Odyssey. (I own that one too!) My biggest pleasant surprise after 5 yrs of use and fully paid auto loan I have an asset with book value of 11K !!

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  2003 Matrix - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Dizg1 - November 27 - 2:00 am

  I love Toyotas. 3 of the 4 cars in my family are Toyotas, for they always seem to offer the best in service. I wound up buying the Matrix after being jerked around by other dealers, so my review is slightly biased. The Matrix has really grown on me. At first, I was satisfied with the looks and interior design, but delighted with the Toyota nameplate. Now, I am delighted with the entire car. I absolutely love the layout inside the cabin. I also find the the car to be surprisingly roomy. For a compact car, it seems to sit off the road enough, providing you with a more commanding feel of the road. All in all, I really like my vehicle.

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  practical commuting - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By pulledover3ice - November 23 - 12:43 am

  The exterior is great, sporty, yet classy (best looking economy hatchback) - thats something many modern models cant get right (even the new matrix). The interior is roomy and tasteful, the only problem is the low quality storage compartment under the shifter, it kept falling out. Auto on/off headlights are a must. Seats could be more comfortable (01 elantra was very good). This car does not accelerate very fast and has a noisy ride. AWD shines on the snow. If you go over 75 mph, the car starts vibrating and otherwise complaining about the speed (although once you push it over 80 it can be smooth). Handling is fine, suspension too soft for sharp turns. High winds push it around at 75+

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  Unrefined Fast and Cheap - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Markm4 - November 21 - 2:00 am

  Ill start with the postitive comments: The thing is fast when you get it in the high rpm range. The suspension is pretty tight for such a high vehicle, and the 17" wheels with firehawks have a-lot of grip. otherwise, at low rpms the thing is a dog. The 1st gear is so tall, it is hard to get it moving without either burning up the clutch or stalling. The interrior is cheap hard plastic. If you must have one, get a good price. On ebay they are going for $15k or less. They are not worth the $20k dealers are charging.

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  Where mediocrity held sway - 2010 Toyota Matrix
  By wpsjesse - November 5 - 8:08 pm

  The second generation of the Toyota Matrix features instantly noticeable larger exterior dimensions, with predictable design cues derivative from the previous model. The interior is all Pontiac (as the Matrix shares a platform with the Vibe) and at a total loss for any real style. The drivers view offers a landscape of unbalanced, drab plastic shapes with chunky knobs and no real aesthetic appeal. Although the build quality seems solid, the lack of inspired design renders the interior joy-less. The blind spot created by the large C-pillar, combined an awkward angle and size of the third window makes the car very hard to see out of at the rear. Fuel economy on the 2.4 has been disappointing.