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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  2003 Matrix review from owner - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Dr. T - February 7 - 5:23 pm

  Overall this vehicle is quite excellent. It is a delight to drive and handles beautifully. Overall, quite excellent. The negative aspects are: Clutch, brake and accelerator are poorly proportioned, and the clutch is especially irritating, as your foot has to be pretty precisely on the pedal or the cluthc pedal cannot be fully disengaged. I ended up adding extra thickness to the clutch pedal to allow full depression of the pedal. If I move the seat closer, then the accelerator is too close, and on it goes. The extra thickness to the pedal solved the problem. The other negative is that the corner rear windows are difficult to see out of from the drivers seat.

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  I love this Car - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Eric Morales - February 2 - 2:00 am

  love the car Bad to deal with dealer

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  Toyota Matrix (Basic Model) - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By steelwife - February 2 - 2:00 am

  First let me say that I have always purchased American made vehicles and was skeptical about buying a Foreign made car. Before buying my Matrix, I used edmunds.com and other sites and did many hours of research. It wasnt until I saw and test drove the Matrix that I realized what I was missing!! When you first sit in this car, it has the feeling of a mini-van. The Matrix handles curves like a dream and is very fun to drive. I paid $16,388.00 for the base model which has an automatic transmission, cruise, A/C, power door,power locks and stereo with C/D player. The floor mats are even good quality and look snazzy with Matrix written at the corners!!!

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  Legendary Toyota reliability, fun to drive - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Richard - February 1 - 8:24 pm

  I bought a 2003 XRS w/190k for $3k, fuel efficient, absolute blast to drive! Exceptional ride and build quality. Most importantly, this vehicle saved my life! I was struck from behind by a Cadillac doing well over 60 mph, I forced the driver door open and walked away unscathed!(5-star frontal and rear crash ratings) A sporty look with very practical storage options. As far is Im concerned, one of the best overall cars ever produced. Only drawback is this engine requires premium gasoline, but with nearly 30 mpg its not that big of a deal. A true driver enthusiasts car.

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  2005 Toyota Matrix - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By mark_texas_usa - January 28 - 2:10 pm

  I bought 2005 Matrix in July 2005. Battery failed after 20K miles, dealer replaced on warranty. Interior plastic features delaminating if grabbed by hands. Tires (terrible continental) replaced after 15K miles. Cruise control failed after 17K miles. Mileage is not meeting specs criteria? Vehicle garaged, currently Jan 09 24K miles. Summary: very poor quality vehicle. I had 1999 Ford F150 pick-up never a problem. In 10 yrs not even light bulb failed @150.

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  Im going to drive this into the ground - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Brian Hoeft - January 28 - 12:03 pm

  I would still purchase this car. The only complaint that I have ever heard of for this car is the road and engine noise. I only heard that comment about a year after I purchased it and didnt honestly notice it until then although now I do. A+ for breaking ability. B for acceleration. A+ for forard view. C for rear viewing ability.

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  Love My Matrix! - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Renee - January 27 - 12:06 am

  I have had this car for over 2 years, and I havent had any problems with it. Its fun to drive, handles well, and entertains me when it accelerates faster than other cars that should, by virtue of their purchase price, easily be able to take mine off the line from a traffic light. Its easy to find in any parking lot since I got the gold/orangish color, and the stereo system is awesome as it belts out tunes. Very minor complaints include the mediocre fuel economy. Also, my windshield used to make odd noises from to time but hasnt done that in a while. And if you dont buckle up that seat belt, Matrix will remind you (with 50 fast beeps).

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  Great economy car ! - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Tia - January 26 - 10:00 am

  I enjoy this car more every time I drive it. I wish it had a swing down arm rest but other then that I would not change a thing. I tinted the windows dark and put sporty chrome rims on it. Looks great! My kids love Mom driving them to high school now. Its exactly what I was looking for!!

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  Vroooooom - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Dreikalina - January 23 - 10:00 am

  Bought this in June of 2004. Get about 28 MPG in the city. Has nice grab on the road. Nice tight corners. Back seat is roomy. Love the fold down seats (including passenger front seat.) Sometimes the front passenger seatbelt has to be buckled to prevent the beeping-alarm from going off, if I have a package on the seat. For some reason when I locked myself out of the car, Toyota said they didnt cover the locksmith to unlock me, and after debating it with them for 10 minutes, they discovered they were wrong. Blamed it on the computer system not being accurate. That was fustrating. But it is a reliable car with good gas mileage. Id buy it again.

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  Matrix Rocks - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By teebone - January 22 - 4:16 pm

  I get lots of looks in this sporty car, and on my first long-distance trip (2400 miles) I got 40 MPG! It corners/handles well, has great brakes, and I was getting scratch in third gear at two years old. Amazing power for fast starts and getaways. I had seven Hondas before getting this Toyota, but I dont think I could go back to Honda. I had to replace the air filter located under the glove compartment, and debated about going to the dealer. However, it was only a few dollars and I was shocked!