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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  just bought one - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Kan - November 25 - 6:00 pm

  so much fun to drive, it looks better than it appears on photos, and much roomier than I expected too... the design is very detail-oriented, paying attention to little things such as lights, storage spaces, and more... overall Toyota quality: I was also looking at others cars, such as Mazda Protege 5 (which is also beautiful), but I decided to go for Matrix because the quality is better.

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  Matrix XR - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By andrewcrose - November 21 - 8:23 pm

  Great car...was same price as fully loaded civic we had looked at earlier, but felt much more solid. Extremely comfortable, drives very well, and looks somewhat flashy.

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  outstanding value - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By rilchard - November 20 - 10:23 am

  This littele car handles like a dream. We sold our Lexus and got this and do not regret the move at all. Good gas mileage, good ride, a bit noisy, turns on a dime, hauls our kayaks, and we get lots of compliments on it. We added on to our house ourselves and it hauled lots of building materials from the yard to home. We probably abused it some doing that but it still purrs right along.

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  31-35 MPG highway - 2007 Toyota Matrix
  By GCN - November 19 - 6:30 pm

  Just purchased a 2007 base model w/ 5- spd, the "M Theory" package, and 36000 miles. Right off the bat got 31 MPG cruising at 77 MPH w/ AC on intermittently. Then cruising at 71 MPH on the way back w/ AC on full time got 35 MPG. So far I like the way it handles, the power is acceptable (but not sports car fun), but most importantly it a very useful car (parking, cargo, cost). "M Theory" is purely for looks, bright color but not worth extra $$$ for most.

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  Great Car - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Happy Matrix Owner - November 17 - 12:43 am

  This car has been excellent in all ways. Very dependable, quiet and comfortable. Yes, a bit of a blind spot, but if you know about it, them you adjust the mirrors and compensate for it. Surprising amount of room for both passengers and for hauling stuff. Tinted the windows and it looks nice and sporty.

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  Perfect for needs and budget - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By cali_isaac - November 16 - 11:26 am

  This is the perfect car for us. Great mileage (25-27 city, 32-37 hwy). This looks small on the outside but is laid out great very efficient and feels very roomy. This car hold TONS of stuff (4 adults, 3 day camping gear (firewood included), surfboards on top and bikes on the back) and still got 34+ mpg on the trip! The 110v plug is awesome, didnt need to buy a car charger for cell phone or iPod. The most car for the money, imo. Would buy again in a heartbeat. Owned for over 2 years now still runs like new.

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  Car of the year - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By capt.jack - November 15 - 10:26 pm

  Excellent car, runs well on freeways. City is a little rough (pot holes).

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  Drivers delight - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Smithy - November 15 - 2:00 am

  I love driving this car. Lots of head room for my tall husband too. Have to be careful with parking curbs as front and sides of car are low to the ground.

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  Love it - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Greyhound Lover - November 15 - 2:00 am

  This is a great car that is fun to drive. The seats are molded to you and are very comfortable. Car has good pickup and is fun to drive. Quite roomy in back though I might make the cargo area cover easier to put no and take off.

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  When is an option not an option - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By buzz006 - November 12 - 2:00 am

  I was moving up from a 1990 Toyota Corolla. I could not fathom why the Heavy Duty heater option with the rear windshield wiper was an option, but every car had it. Every time I brought it up, they said they could not do for me what I wanted. I suggested the just raise the price $250.00 and call is standard rather than an option. I ended up buying what they have in stock. Today it went down to freezing and I turned on the wipers and nothing happened with the frost on my Windshield. I turned them off and put on the air on high and defrost on and heat on. Winin about 1 minute the windshield was clear. I was happy to see this.