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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  Very happy with this car - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By snowman - January 14 - 7:26 am

  I am very impressed with Matrix and the versatility it offers. There is plenty of room in the back, especially if the seats are folded down. It is zippy and handles very well on the road. I agree that the visibility out the back is a bit limited, and I am also under the impression the paint may be prone to chipping. I also like the higher seating position as it makes getting into and out of the vehicle much easier. No issues after two long trips, and I dont believe it is any noisier on the highway than most other cars.

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  Love It - 2007 Toyota Matrix
  By Toy4T - December 25 - 3:26 pm

  I only have 200 miles on my Matrix XR but I already love it. The seat are high which is great. I can drive next to the smaller SUVs and the seats are just as high as the person next to me but the car is smaller. The seats are amazingly comfortable in front... back seats too. I love my Matrix.

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  Did i make a mistake? - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Terry - December 22 - 10:20 am

  I purchased my Matrix XR in May, 2008. I think the vehicle is comfortable, fun to drive and gets good gas mileage. Love the look of the vehicle as well. However, everything was fine until about 25,000 km. The alignment needed adjusting, windshield has a air leak somewhere, and the dash board also squeaks really bad when its cold. Its quite annoying. Had it in the dealership and they agreed something was wrong with the windshield. They removed the windshield and then replaced the seal. Noise is still there. My radio failed. New one on order. Hate the way the rain leaves marks on the interior of the seats.

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  Nat bad for the money - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By barlo - December 22 - 10:00 am

  This is a very good car for the money. Handling ist bad. Good pick up with the 5 speed. Not bad looking inside and out. When the back seats are down, it has almost as much if not more cargo room than some mid sized SUVs. Plenty of passenger room in back seat. Their knees wont hit the back of the front seat. For the money and compared to whats out there. You wont find better. And its a Toyota.

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  Economic Fun Drive/Ride - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Storytlr - December 15 - 10:00 am

  GREAT gas mileage and fun to drive. Leg room for 61" driver/passenger.

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  "shut up and drive" - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Croger - December 3 - 2:00 am

  Fun to drive, great head/leg/cargo room, excellent gas mileage. A little "squirrly" with strong cross- winds, and when being passed by big rigs, but otherwise handles well.

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  Great car but cant get options we want - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Jackeroo - December 1 - 10:00 am

  I really liked the Matrix at first. A hatchback with folddown seats, great for hauling bikes, for camping trips & it has good gas mileage (unlike most SUVs), plus potential safety features. However, have been frustrated as dealers say cant get ABS brakes without other option packages such as spoilers & fog lights etc. Also none available with side airbags except for XRS, but then you compromise the good mpg and get the spoilers. Takes 120 days to get custom car. So may buy Standard rather than XR, & forgo safety features so we dont have to get stupid spoilers. May look at the Vibe to see their options (they look better too).

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  Best small car wagon for the money - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By norbert - November 29 - 1:06 am

  Drives like the small car that it is. Very reliable. Great gas milage when you drive the speed limit and proper fuel saving driving techniques. 44 mpg on recent trip driving at 60 mpg in cruise control.

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  First Month - 2007 Toyota Matrix
  By Fr4nk1yn - November 25 - 6:03 pm

  With gas prices threatening to be higher than last year I decided I needed my highly modified Oldsmobile Cutlass to NOT be my daily driver. A fully loaded Yaris is a rarity, but a loaded Matrix M-Theory is not. Compared to others the options to price seem very good. The best mileage so far has been 28 mpg of combo driving. That was with the dealers complimentary tank, which leads me to believe it was over filled slightly. 25 mpg is the norm. Performance is anything but. The engine is NOT performance oriented at all. If you want something quick this isnt it. However it does handle quite well. Ride is firm, sometimes harsh, but still comfortable. For looks and features Id recommend it.

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  Poor Matrix - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By shane - November 25 - 11:23 am

  I love this car, it fit all my needs, even trips to Home Depot and Lowes for the occasional building material. I owned it for two years before I wrecked on I495. Now I am going to go buy another one in a different color.