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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  owner - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Debster - July 19 - 10:00 am

  Excellent car - good mileage - has all the comforts of home. Im short so the only uncomfortable part is the seat belt. I wish they would lower it so it does come across my neck. Otherwise its perfect in every way. Easy to get in and out of and lots of cargo space. The fold down rear seats make it so you can fit almost everything.

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  Traded in SUV for Matrix- Love it! - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By deerblue - July 17 - 2:00 am

  I bought my Matrix XR about 8 days ago. I love it. I use to drive a SUV and I loved its big cargo area and didnt really want to give it up. But Arianna Huffington got to my conscience as well as seeing $1.98 for regular gas. I wanted a small SUV with great gas mileage. People laughed at me. But I have found it in the Matrix. Love the way it looks, great cargo area. But my favorite things are the great pep it has and great gas mileage. Drove it up the California Coast. Without any effort, I was going 90. I got close to 38 per gallon. It is not the fanciest, I sort of miss the leather in my SUV but it is a great car. Love it.

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  Great vehicle for the money - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By truthguru - July 17 - 2:00 am

  Excellent vehicle with superior build quality. Car does not have any squeaks or rattles and the interior gaps are tight.

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  My Matrix - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Luckyned - July 17 - 2:00 am

  Very fun and very comfortable car. My entire family loves it.

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  To Hawaii and Back - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Capt Glenn - July 14 - 8:36 am

  We have shipped this car from VA to Hawaii and back. We have driven to CA and have enjoyed all the room and creature comforts of this CUV. We would recommend this to any small family. The AWD feature was a great safety comfort in the mountains, in the snow and on the beaches.

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  Great mileage for suv alternative - 2008 Toyota Matrix
  By r1114h - July 14 - 2:30 am

  With gas prices soaring, had to trade in my 07 4dr tacoma. Didnt make sense for 50 mile daily commute anymore. Even in Atlanta traffic, I still manage 30-32 mpg with an xr automatic. Granted Im not driving aggressively or rarely top 60 mph. First vacation trip this week with 3 people, luggage, running air & 65-70 mph - got 34.5 mpg. Ive never got under 30 in 3 months of owning so far, beating the window sticker. Still able to pack enough with wagon like features.

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  Good Dog Car - 2007 Toyota Matrix
  By wolf - July 12 - 10:00 am

  I bought my car used at 36,000 miles. I love it and have not had any problems since purchasing it a year ago. My only complaint is that the in-town mileage is not as good as expected. I get about 23-2 mpg in a very cold and snowy city. Summer hwy miles have been as good as 36 mpg. Granted, I have had to idle the car to warm it up while I clear off ice and snow on our very coldest of days, which reduces mileage considerably. Overall, I love the car and am looking forward to having it for many years to come.

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  Excellent car to have - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By tandra reams - July 2 - 4:06 am

  I love my Toyota Matrix XR, its fun to drive I get excellent gas mileage and there is plenty of run for the kids and for other things

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  Love my Matrix - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By wayne kaczowski - June 28 - 4:43 pm

  I previously had a 2005 Matrix. The dealership enticed me to stop by and consider a trade in. And I did. My first Matrix XR was the dark shadow grey. Now I have the dark blue which is really beautiful. I recommend the Matrix to anyone who wants a roomy car both in the front and rear seating areas. Lots of head room and leg room. I am 6 feet tall and these were 2 important factors. Plus I get an average of 30 MPG.

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  Hit the jackpot - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By opinroad84 - June 26 - 11:20 am

  I bought my Matrix, new, in Sept 02 and since then have only put 52K on it. I have done all of the routine maintenance and have only ever had to replace the serpentine belt a few times and one brake light bulb. This car has been more reliable than I ever could have hoped for. Plus, it has great cargo capacity. I can load it with dozens of bags of mulch, or a weeks worth of camping gear. Even my 29 inch mountain bike fits in the back with the seats down. I will admit, on long drives the seating position can become annoying, but bring a small pillow or something and you can go for hours, plus, you wont need to stop for gas often! Avg MPG, 30 in summer, 26 in winter.