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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  2009 Matrix Air Bags Didnt Deploy - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By jeannie - November 4 - 9:10 am

  Just wanted everyone to know that in regards to collisions and air bags, Toyota may not be the safest way to go. I just had a full frontal car accident, where the air bags did not deploy. The impact was received at at least 35 mph and not one air bag deployed. I was able to walk away from the accident with minor pain, the car did not. Rescue crew was puzzled on why the airbags did not deploy. Just glad I was the only one in the car and the kiddies werent there.

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  2004 Matrix XR FWD - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By sirich - November 4 - 2:00 am

  As always Toyota products are above all. Fun to drive no problems so far. I own two Toyotas presently. This is my fifth one.

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  Couldnt be happier! - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Jax - November 4 - 2:00 am

  Ive had this car for almost a year now, and I couldnt be happier. I have the XR model, fwd, auto and I was attending a school 3+ hours away from home in the Appalachian Mts (good to have a car that heats up quick). Lets just say when we had our snow storms I wasnt stuck at school. I drove home every weekend. The MPG great, and it handles perfect for me. This is my 4th car (one died from the weekend drives) and I can honestly say, I will have this one until it dies, or I decide to upgrade to an XRS. It was very helpful with the hauling of all my junk when I was moving in and out of the dorms. A++

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  I Cant Imagine Myself in any other auto - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By thelastrevolt - November 4 - 2:00 am

  I love this car. I cant see myself in any other car, even my old Toyota Camry. Perfect for band equipment, amps, guitars, great for road trips, plus looks amazing for a night on the town, to the movies, the theatre, musical, opera, or club.

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  My Matrix - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Ricker - November 4 - 2:00 am

  Great small wagon. They are hard to find, just keep looking. With the back seat folds down flat, it does as much as a small SUV, but with MUCH better gas milage. Done a lot with it since I lease one back in late Aug. I had one bad strut, that was put one at the factory that is going to be replaced by Toyota, but other then that.. I only had one oil change. I made the right choice.

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  Matrix - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Cary Lescure - November 4 - 2:00 am

  Bought a Matrix two weeks ago and absolutely love it...wow what a car. The gas millage is well worth it and the performance is outstanding. Wanted a sedan and when I came across the Matrix I couldnt refuse after that. The car offers more space than two sedans put together, the seats fold down and its like having a flat bed. Also it reminds of it being a minature S.U.V. which provides the interior space inside of one too.

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  Awsome - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By momd - November 4 - 2:00 am

  I would buy another just for fun. My 15yr old is already telling me its his.

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  Think I purchased a Lemon! - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Tori - November 3 - 11:03 am

  Since owning my Matrix Ive put over 1k into fixing it! The calliphers went out, my floor is full of water from the sunroof, the gas mileage is appx 24 mpg, my headlights are cracked, this car is nice looking but poorly built (its a corolla I learned) Ive had no luck with this lemon and wish I never sold my CRV!! My interior is also fading (the silver knobs, etc), For a certified car, my old cheaper cars were much better. I will never buy another Toyota. Im having so many problems with this car I will have to sell it back and pay the diffrence, I dont know what else to do. Lesson learned- "never buy a first year car".

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  My fav car - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Lilabeth - October 29 - 2:00 am

  This is such a wonderful car I love the way it handles and the sound system in it..its a great car

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  Lots of good; some bad - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By JoshB - October 29 - 2:00 am

  The Matrix is a good car if you need headroom - Im 66", and it fits me perfectly with room to spare. It is an economical, reliable, relatively capacious car. It gets great mileage (low to mid 30s) and has not had any mechanical problems after 32,000 miles. It has decent cargo and passenger room. I would prefer that there be more lateral space, but its a compact car, after all. The interior build quality is VERY poor - the dashboard rattles everywhere. The exterior paint is VERY easy to scratch. The stock tires (Continental) are rubbish.