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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  Toy - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By David Clawson - October 12 - 5:46 pm

  Have driven car approx. 10,000 miles since purchase and really enjoy driving it. My wife is main driver using it mostly going to and from work. She really appreciates the gas mileage and pep getting through traffic.We also use this car for trips for the above reasons.

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  Maxtix Puts Fun into Driving Again - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By Bill - October 7 - 11:30 pm

  The Matrix puts fun into driving. Steering wheel feels great, handling more like a sports car. Controls placed perfectly. Love the Chromatic mirror/compass feature and sunroof. All the seats really lay flat. Window controls at an angle more comfortable to operate. I wish my compute was longer - hard to leave vehicle, especially six way driver seat! Gas mileage, room, fun, options, who says you cant have it all. Thanks Toyota.

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  hercar - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By ed343 - October 7 - 2:00 am

  This car is fun to drive although it does net get the gas milage I expected

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  cool Matrix - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By vjns - October 6 - 7:16 pm

  Excellent design and quality. Although the ride is higher compared to my civics, it still feels very sporty and responsive. Since it is designed as a ULEV crossover, it is really versatile, affortable and comfortable. Auto transmission is really smooth and gas mileage is great. Very happy with the car since I got it new and fully loaded in Mar 2006. Great price and great looks, all my friends love it at my work place. Only other car that generate so much attention at work is a 2006 Mustang GT but he is suffering with his gas bills and insurance.

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  Made for female dimensions - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Mark P. - September 27 - 10:00 am

  03 XRS 6-sp. Solidly built, well designed. The XRS engine doesnt make good power until above 6000 rpm, which means that if you need to GO, you cant do it right away. Ours spends a lot of time on I-95, and the A/C condenser takes a lot of abuse from stones. We put chicken wire behind the grille to stop that. My only gripe is that the drivers seat and wheel/pedals are made for someone with short legs. It fits my wife perfectly, but if I sit close enough to the wheel to be comfortable, the pedals are too close. Im only 510". I suspect that it was designed with women in mind, who tend to have shorter legs.

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  POOR RIDE QUALITY - 2008 Toyota Matrix
  By animalshack252 - September 23 - 6:23 am

  Bought car with 20K in june 09 now has 85K february 10 car has been reliable and good for delivery purposes, not comfortable to ride in at all would not buy another, goes through brakes more than average vehicle, think next time i will go back to honda. this car stinks in the snow so dont buy if you have to climb hills

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  2003 Matrix - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By bass1bad - September 21 - 10:00 am

  This is the only car I will ever buy. As long as Toyota keeps making them I will buy them.

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  76000 miles and going strong! - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Cece - September 16 - 2:43 pm

  I bought this car in 2003 (2004 model) and now have 76000 miles on it! Not a single problem! I have a manuel transmission and it is so much fun to drive. Its young and stylish and I wouldnt trade it for any other car :)

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  Ok but gas isnt cheap - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By fyreman - September 15 - 8:33 pm

  Its supposed to get 25-32 mpg. but in reality, it gets 21-33 mpg depending on the driving you do. It revs about 3k rpm at 70mph and stays relativly quiet. Ive yet to drive it in snow but well see this winter. Its got a lot of room for stuff in back and the seats fold completely flat. It hauls my 69" fishing poles inside with ease between the bucket seats or with the front seat down. If I only had room to haul drywall, it would be a great value.

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  Happy Matrix Owner - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By Happy Matrix Driver - September 15 - 12:16 pm

  Bought to replace my wifes 1995 4-Runner 4X4 with many miles on it. Although we knew we were giving up power (from 6 cyl to 4 cyl), the Matrix has performed well for us. During wet roads or windy conditions, the AWD keeps the vehicle on the road. The windshield and windows provide excellent visibility. We have averaged about 24 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway (2500 miles on the car in the 1st month), which is at least 50% better than the 4-Runner gave us. Overall we like the Matrix because it provides us flexibility: we can haul 4 or 5 people with decent leg room, or haul loads where the front passenger seat folds down. For the price, we enjoy driving this car.