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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  Looooooove that car!!! - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Emmas mama - June 23 - 2:00 am

  WEre totally thrilled with this car. Have had a tercel and camry in the past, and were looking in vain for a Camry wagon. Delighted to discover the Matrix. Since were all very tall, the Matrix wins hands down for the great head room. The hatchback design and great gas mileage are cherries on top! Ive tried talking my car-seeking friends into checking this one out.

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  The Car is Fun! - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By keepinon - June 19 - 6:13 am

  Have driven my 05 Matrix xr for 3 months, and about 3300 miles. I really enjoy it. The wife and I golf quite a bit in the warmer weather. The car converts to a golf club hauler very quickly and easily. It handles very nimbly. On a recent 600 mile trip of some city, mostly highway driving, with quite a load of luggage and clubs, we got 33 mpg. Front seats are very comfortable for two average sized adults. Loading, unloading is easy with access through five doors + glass hatch door. Parking lots are quite easy to handle. The spaces seem to have grown! I will be curious about winter handling.

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  MY RED MATRIX - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By tenn girl - June 7 - 10:00 am

  I LOVED THE MINUTE I SAW IT . I THINK IT LOOKS BEST IN RED OR WHITE. IT HAS SO MUCH ROOM . I LIKE EVERYTHING.. THEY GAVE ME A CAMARY TO DRIVE WHILE THEY DID A FEW THINGS TO MY CAR AND WONTED TO KNOW IF I WONTED TO TRADE....NO WAY!!!!!!!MINE HAS SO MUCH MORE STYLE..IN THE DASH.. LAYING THE SEATS DOWN GIVES YOU TON OF ROOM....THE DASH IS JUST...COOL!! I HAVE HAD THREE FULL SIZE PEOPLE IN THE BACK SEAT..AND NOT ONE COMPLAINT!!!WHICH IS AMAZING IN ITS SELF....YOU JUST WOULD JUST NOT BELIVE THE ROOM...GREAT PRICE...I HAVE SUNROOF.POWER DOORS AND WINDOWS.KEYLESS ENTRY..GROUND EFFECTS,FOG LIGHTS, 17 INCH.WHEELS..SIX SPEAKERS,

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  The Last Shall Be First - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By johng7 - June 3 - 2:00 am

  Im over 80 so I know this will be my last car purchase. The quality of this car is excellent. One complaint would be with the horsepower (128), since Ive always liked to step on it. The storage space is well thought out. The display needs a switch to light it up for daytime viewing. I am very happy with my purchase and would do it over again if I had to buy another car.

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  Reliable, practical, its been a great car. - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By thomkatt - May 26 - 8:13 am

  I bought my Matrix used in 08 with 52k. Its currently at 103k and I still havent had any problems with it, aside from regular maintenance (oil/filter changes, replaced tires/brake pads). Its my first car and Ive really enjoyed its mix of practicality, fuel economy, and relative sportiness. Thats sportiness relative to a camry or corolla; its relatively fun to drive around town, but the fun is limited beyond that. Im a college student, so the flexible cargo area is great for the frequent moves, group trips to the grocery store, and weekend getaways. As far as style, the asymmetrical dash is cool and the exterior is sporty enough (the solar yellow paint helps). Its been a great car.

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  Now we can fly - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By tanya - May 24 - 10:00 am

  I have never owned a better car. Its fun and classy.

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  An Extremely Sturdy Car - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Miguel Angel - May 21 - 5:50 pm

  Trixes are bomb-proof! Im the kind of driver who doesnt go particularly fast, but doesnt brake for anything, either. This car has taken three years of continous punishment: every corner taken at the traction limit, hundreds of handbrake turns, about three months of serious gravel driving, 8in deep potholes every day, many track days, being half-sunk in waste water (this is Mexico City, you know)... all without a glitch. Minor rattles in the dash, the standard battery lacks capacity, and thats it. A very capable little car when pushed (can consistently beat Megane RSs in the hands of a good driver), even with an auto transmission. Overall, a great car.

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  Go Matrix - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By James Ray - May 17 - 4:46 pm

  This is a great car for most everything. Commuting, hauling stuff and packing the family for a road trip. It gets great mileage and its a great choice for conserving gas.

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  Great Car but too much Air Noise - 2008 Toyota Matrix
  By Beverly - May 13 - 6:50 pm

  Great Car, but too much air noise. Instead of feeling like I am riding in a 19,000 car. I feel like I bought a 13,000 car. I feel like I need $6,000 in change. Other than that it is a great car.

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  Meets most of my needs - 2007 Toyota Matrix
  By Up-the-River - May 13 - 8:20 am

  My Matrix XR replaced a Honda driven 10 yr, 250k and loved. I have yet to develop same affection for Matrix. After 10k it seems reliable, functional, economical, fun to drive. 5 sp shift is smooth but has a unique click sound each shift. Some design features are at times inconvenient or annoying. Visibility out side and back suffers. Front and rear seat headrests are always in way, same for body/roof posts. Warning signal for unbuckled seatbelts is loud, obnoxious. Why all the noise when passenger unbuckles to remove coat or briefcase or box is on passenger seat? And panic button on the key fob is horribly designed. How many times have I accidentally set it off? Please dont ask my neighbors!