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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  I LOVE THIS CAR - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Terri - May 7 - 2:36 am

  I love this car. I had a Rav 4 for 6 days and hated it. This was just what I wanted. A good cross between a SUV and a car. Its easier to handle than an SUV and its great on gas. I always get around 28 in City driving.

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  Expensive Regret - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By Expensive Regret - April 26 - 1:46 pm

  I purchased this vehicle based on Toyotas reputation. Within 2 years of use I have spent around $3500 to fix repeat serpentine belts, 02 sensor, rotors, brakes (at 40,000 miles), 1 battery and whatever the other belts are for on this vehicle. This vehicle was purchased new and by an experienced, nonabusive driver. It now has 47000 miles mostly highway and I do not trust that I will not be stranded by this vehicle. I am waiting for the clutch / transmission to fail after reviewing other complaints filed by resentful consumers. I should have kept my jeep regardless of the high fuel cost.

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  From F150 to Matrix and fun drive - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Daniel Foster - April 25 - 10:00 am

  Not only does it look good but it drives good too. Much more fun than the F150 and easier on the pocketbook and easier to park. More room for your things than you could imagine by looking at it. A great week-end flea marketing vehicle and a comfortable ride for 4.The ulitmate shopping car.

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  Magnificant Matrix - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By buddyl030 - April 25 - 10:00 am

  With the rear seats down its a cargo van. Seats 4 comfortably but taxes the engine somewhat. I am averaging 33-34 mpg. With the gear shifter in the park position the heater/ac/fan switches are hard to access. Handles like a sports car. Corners flat and precise.

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  Fantastic Little Car! - 2007 Toyota Matrix
  By Nicole922 - April 24 - 8:43 pm

  I cant say enough good things about this car! Ive had it since December, and already put almost 8000 miles on it! The gas mileage is amazing (~35 miles to the gallon) on the beltway. The design and handling are great! Its a smooth ride, and there is more than enough room for myself and my family of four! More cargo room than any of the other "wagons" out there, and its a cute sporty mom car for the young at heart who arent ready to graduate to the minivans, but also not willing to suffer the cost of fuel in an SUV!

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  Very Happy, a Few Minor Problems - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Ozborn - April 22 - 2:00 am

  Overall I am very happy with this car, but I am only going to list the problems I have with it since mindlessly praising Toyota isnt very constructive. The problems are: 1)Suphur smell coming from the engine, I can get rid of it though by selecting recirculating air. Im not sure whether this is because of the gas I am buying or the Matrix. This only occurs when I am idling with the Matrix pointed up on a hill. 2)There is a intermittent sound of sand coming from the driver side dash. 3)High idle RPMs. Starting the Matrix even when it is above freezing can result in RPMs over 2000 for at least a minute, it also flucuates quite a bit for no reason.

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  update - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By gthumb - April 15 - 3:46 am

  posted a review last Nov. since then the weather has turned colder, more rattles, and the windshield sounds as though it is going to pop out. More paint has chipped off the front end, noise inside the car has increased, and the recall has added to the loss of resale value. I will never by a Toyota again.

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  great little car - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Roger - April 15 - 2:56 am

  I have found this to be a great ride for the money. Fuel milage is great and the ride is fine even for long trips. I spend a lot of time in the car and am a large person and find it has plenty of room and is comfortable on a long ride. Even after 60000 miles I have had not problems. It performs and accelerates as well as the day I purchased it. I would recomend following the maintenance requirements for long term reliability.

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  Best Car Ever - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By europe redins - April 5 - 10:00 am

  my fathers lease on his suv was up and my parents had desided to buy a toyota rav4 and went to the dealership. when they got there they were dissapointed that the seats were uncomfterable and were about to leave when my mom saw a black xr matrix that had just been unloaded. soon they test drove it, fell in love and got it. when i saw it i freaked out! I had seen few of these on the read yet i never thought I would own one. Soon my father went over seas and the old car that I owned didnt work for me and my mother gave me the matrix as a birthday present.

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  04 Matrix XRS - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By g-dubya - March 30 - 2:00 am

  For the price the XRS is a great car. Im 56" and it fits me great. Love the tall seats. Everything is set at a perfect distance from the shifter and controls to the dead pedal. Plenty of rear leg room and the back doors have a larger opening than most SUVs! The wheels are set back far enough that there is no hump to climb over. I wouldnt recommend it for anyone over 6 ft despite the head room. The shifter is a little finicky, but the engine runs smooth even in the lower RPM range. Torque picks up at the 4K RPM range, but the car is at its best in 6th gear. Handles better than my old GTI with the wheel and tire package.