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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Matrix fun to drive - 2009 Toyota Matrix
By Jules - March 3 - 5:23 amA fun car to drive. Nice power for the vehicle and handles very well. Good gas mileage. I like the sporty look and feel to the vehicle.
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The Matrix shines in winter time! - 2005 Toyota Matrix
By Kim - February 28 - 8:20 pmIve had it for a year and a half and it has been great, especially in the winter time. In the snow, I rarely spin my tires on a steep driveway or at a stop sign on an incline. The car has great control overall. Ive never felt safer in a car before. My passengers feel safe too. I recently heard this car gets the highest marks for side-impact collision. Id believe it! You just feel taken care of inside. The only downer is that I have to replace a rear hub bearing now not even at 100,000. That was unexpected and will be pricey. Rumors of a previous recall for this model are out there, but who knows. And no warranty will cover it now. You may want to research that issue.
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Great Car for the money - 2003 Toyota Matrix
By Arkansas Flyflinger - February 25 - 2:00 amI just bought my Matrix, and I love it. It handles great and am very satisfied with it so far. I will say that after driving both an automatic and a 5spd I would recommend that you go with a 5 spd if it doesnt bother you. It performs much bettern and is a joy to drive.
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Great Car!! - 2004 Toyota Matrix
By charley - February 20 - 10:00 amWent on a 1,000 mile trip and loved it. The car handles great, got 38mpg with the cruise set at 74MPH. The car has plenty of power for my needs. Never lost speed on hills, the cruise maintained its setting. Plenty of interior space and fun to drive. The ride is quite comfortable and the cabin is quiet. After always having SUVs I am glad I made this switch.
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love It - 2005 Toyota Matrix
By XRauto - February 14 - 8:50 pmOverall this is a great car. I would buy another in an instant. I would suggest a few changes to toyota but other wise they got it dead on right.
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WOW! Says it all! - 2005 Toyota Matrix
By dlogan - February 14 - 11:56 amResearched, looked, drove mid-sized SUVs for months before accidently coming across this wonderful spot of RED in the dealer parking lot! I have back trouble and needed a TALLER vehicle for comfort, this unexpectedly fit the bill! Went in stopped the paperwork on Jeep and have been extremely happy! Travel about 2000 miles per month and have a great time doing so! Love it with 3 kids and a TALL 61 husband!
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Matrix - 2005 Toyota Matrix
By degrenia - February 12 - 5:13 pmWe just bought our car 2 weeks ago and I love the way it drives and I am short so the way the driver seat is I can back up and see so much better than any car I have tried.
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123K and counting - 2003 Toyota Matrix
By MatrixWI - February 8 - 11:36 pmWe purchased this car for my wife that was averaging 40K per year in mileage and she needed something that would drive good in the snow. The AWD is great, but we are on our second set of tires. Currently the car is in need of brakes, but not too bad for a car with 123K on it. We have only done 60 or 90K major service, but nothing else. We have used the car for major yard projects and it fit everything. We have also used that car to move two times 600+ and had no issues with the car. Weve done numerous road trips with the car and every time it works great. The only one complaint that we have is the car seems to burn more oil than usual and the horse power a LOT less than needed.
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My Matrix - 2004 Toyota Matrix
By Chris - February 8 - 1:10 pmHas been the best car Ive ever owned. Mileage usually about 30mpg, sometimes more if highway only driving. GREAT cornering and handling ability. Fun to drive with enough power to pass safely in reasonable situations. Back seats lower flat instead of the SUVs that dont go all the way down flat, so is great for cargo. A truly great vehicle!
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So far so good - 2004 Toyota Matrix
By magrat - February 8 - 2:00 amLove everything so far. Had it for 2 months and put about 3500 miles on it. I absolutely HATE the sunvisors and the reverse beeping.
