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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  Nice car but some safety issues - 2010 Toyota Matrix
  By totafan - January 20 - 1:03 am

  This Matrix XR is being driven by a pair of 60plussers involved with elderly care thus requiring transporting elderly person plus wheelchair. This works well due to the relatively high cargo floor and hatchback.

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  2007 Matrix XR - 2007 Toyota Matrix
  By jim g - January 18 - 7:43 pm

  Couldnt be happier with the 2007 Matriz XR. It replaced a mini-van and instantly doubled the mpg, fun-factor, and versatility.

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  Great for an inexpensive car - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Heather - January 16 - 3:10 pm

  Most of my driving is in a small town with stop lights or signs at almost every intersection, and I am still getting 28 - 30 MPG. I love the roominess of the interior. The seats fold down completely flat so that you can really load this car full of cargo. My only complaint is that in order to depress the clutch completely, you are too close to the accelerator which can get uncomfortable if you are driving for awhile. I bought this car for economy and did not expect it to be as nicely appointed or to ride as well as the more expensive Toyotas or Volvos I have owned in the past. It isnt and it doesnt but its not bad. Its roomy, and, for what I paid, it is an excellent car.

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  Great - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Holaimtim - January 16 - 2:00 am

  Great car! I have a XRS its so much fun to drive. Pretty quick for a wagon. Handles amzingly but my one complaint is the seats. Although they r very comfortable i find when i take sharp turns i tend to slide out of it with my seat belt on. Thats my only complaint i love it otherwise

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  One of Best Cars I Have Owned - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By A Thomas - January 15 - 10:36 pm

  Wonderful automobile. Had 2004 Toyota Matrix XR and liked it so much that we bought another Toyota Matrix when 04 Toyota was wrecked. Most people I have talked to who saw car after wreck did not understand how I came away without so much as a scratch esp. since car was totalled. Very, very safe vehicle. Well-built and handles very well. Strongly recommend this car for anyone needing economical vehicle, but also needing room for lot of people. I can put 5 in including myself. 04 Matrix had good value and depreciated very little (much less than many other cars over the course of 1 yr).

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  XRS 6 Speed - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Meanieman - January 14 - 2:00 am

  Purchased thru Costco (NE grocery chain) buyer service.$19800 delivered, incls vehicle, tax(6%) all fees and plates and all finance chgs(0).Read other reviews about Xr and base model, step up to XRS its loaded.Options incl in deal:FE CK EJ Al WL EF C1 CF. Also got 0% loan for 36 mos totally free of charges. Communting can be FUN! GTS engine worth the price of admission!

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  Matrix the swiss army knife of cars - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By TRD fan - January 9 - 10:00 am

  The Toyota Matrix has to be one of the best Toyotas Ive owned. I have had sports cars, trucks, everything and this car seems to cover each of those vehicles needs perfectly. Its fast and fun as a daily driver, and gas mileage is excellent. Interior space is cavernous on the Matrix. I purchased an 8 Live Oak tree and fit it w/out bending into my Matrix with the hatchback fully closed! Enough said regarding that issue. Exterior wise, this car is very sleek and gives just a little hint of aggression in its lines. Very nice... Overall, you get a sports car, a truck, and a Toyota all in one.

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  Best of both worlds - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Thomas Howe - December 28 - 1:43 am

  Not too many cars that go from 0- 60 in 7 seconds, yet get 32 mpg on the road. Also, the fact that theres lots of room in back with the seats folded down is a major plus. Are you reading this, bicyclist and skiers? It handles great and is a pleasure to drive long distances. I regularly took 1000 mile round trip drives and it never missed a beat. The extra kick pas 6000 RPMs is addicting. It looks cooler the longer you have it, with all of the ground effects, but that did have its down side. The front spoilers were too low and I was always scraping them on curbs, sometimes damaging them. I would have kept it, but decided to get a 4X4 SUV for the Wisconsin winters. I miss the gas mileage.

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  Great Car For The Money - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By 03matrixXRS - December 26 - 10:00 am

  Bought my XRS last night, 4-6 weeks until I take delivery. The car offers more versatility for the money than any other car we looked at in the price range. Its great if you are looking for a fast, fun car that can still handle a bit of cargo. It looks great, but I wish there were more of an aftermarket!

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  Reflects the Driver... - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Jack Rabbit - December 24 - 12:13 pm

  Being an Admirer of the Prius and the fact that theres a waiting list for one, I browsed the lot at the dealership I went to and I could not get over the awesome body style and "unusual" paint job (sunburst metallic). The thought of another six year car payment was dreaded but Id moved from a 30 minute commute to and from work a day to a 65 minute one and I needed better gas mileage and a warranty so I decided to "bite the bullet" and managed to leave with a manual 09 Matrix S. Not for one moment do I regret it!!! The gas mileage is incredible (compared to my 01 Chevy Cavalier), Its very "giddy" in the speed department, Very maneuverable on the road and comfortable to drive...