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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  Great car - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By donnarb - November 23 - 12:03 pm

  I have the manual front WD and I find it fun to drive. I use it to commute to work on hilly and winding roads. It handles very well and has nice pick up. I only filled the tank once so far - gas mileage is fantastic! Although it is considered a small car, it doesnt feel like one. It is very practical and I recommend it highly.

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  Still loving it - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By Ed - November 22 - 11:00 pm

  Had my Matrix for almost 3 yrs. and still loving it. Do it yourself maintenance its easy on it. Wife loves the AWD cause it kicks on Chicagos snowy streets. All around room and versatility also great. Very reliable, car feels as solid as it did on day one.

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  Marixn 09 disappointing! - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Poormel - November 18 - 5:13 am

  Not particularly fun to drive, has awkward sitting position, seat doesnt travel far back enough for my comfort. I get a back ache after 2 hours of driving, which I dont get in my 01 Corolla. Emergency brake lever placed in a bad position, it seems to be always in the way and can easily be pulled up by a child or you by accident. It creates a cramped area in between 2 front seats. Rear seating room is very limited. Doors sound cheap when closing them.

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  Hotrod People Mover!!! - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By cwert99 - November 9 - 10:00 am

  I am probobly one of the few who has put over 30,000 on my XRS. This car has aged like fine wine. After turning 25,000 miles on it, the engine runs smoother, notably quicker acceleration and the shifter is a little less figity. I love the little VVTL-i engine and the versitility. Perfect for me and my yellow lab and a few friends on a weekend camping trip. No issues with the car to date (not bad with a production number of 4,122). Be sure to have a TRD cold -air intake installed.

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  just one fun car - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Dominc - October 28 - 2:00 am

  Fun to drive; lots of space; quick response from padel; sporty in and out; very supportive bucket seats; household power outlet perfect for "plug it in" scent; good handling (out performed a Focus on mountain road in my personal experience).

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  Matrix - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By BillMatrix - October 28 - 2:00 am

  This is a fun car that gets great gas mileage. It is quick and easy to handle. The six-speed adds to the fun.

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  Nice Ride - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By GrindEm - October 19 - 7:03 am

  Bought the 2.4L with the 5 speed manual tranny in radiant red. This car needs the 2.4L to move the extra pork at an acceptable pace. I love the engine and the tranny, very positive driving experience! I am 61 and find it to be a little tight in the seat and in the foot wells. The layout is very handy and will fit a lot of stuff with the seats folded down. However the design makes for the worst tunnel cover for privacy I have ever seen! I really like the new exterior styling, big improvement over the geriatric 1st generation. I love the way Toyota puts their packages and model lines together, clean and straight foward. All in all a fun car to drive, quick, agile, stable, good price, aux jack.

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  It does what I want. - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By buzz006 - October 17 - 10:00 am

  It is nice to be further off the ground when I step out of the car. I have folded down the back seats moving many things from a snow blower to a tree, to small furniture. It is really nice how flat it does get. I have never really used the tie downs that come with it. I have never come close to the mileage for the city/highway that it is supposed to get. I am at best 4 mpg less than what they say. During the winter around 28 mpg, during the summer around 32 mpg. I drive 1/2 hour to work every day mostly highway. Around 25 miles each way.

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  Downsize - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Lamar Winters - October 16 - 10:50 pm

  Having driven this car for only the best part of a week I must say that I am impressed, despite the "expert" evaluations. Just coming off a Lexus RX330 I had no big expectations but needed to down size and I am a big Toyota fan. I really enjoy the driving experience and my height(510") and arm length adapt to the driving position nicely. I dont have a problem with the engine performance because for me its a change in driving style and a willingness to adapt. Road noise is not all that bad and all this fuss about engine noise I dont get at all. I drove the AWD car initially but did not like the color or performance and was please when I drove away in the FWD, Shadow Mica ... cool!!

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  Love My Matrix - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Fox - October 14 - 10:00 am

  I went from a Mustang Convertible v8 engine to a Toyota Matrix 4 cylinder. The adjustment was so much easier that I had imagined. I test drove many of the other wagons, including the Rav4, and I felt the handling of the Matrix was superior to the rest. The ride is smooth and quiet. The interior is roomy and comfortable. It can seat 5 easily. It is smooth riding in the back seat.