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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An efficient compromise - 2007 Toyota Matrix
By Buckeye - August 23 - 2:13 amI agree with the previous review that the Matrix is possibly the best compromise in size, comfort, fuel economy and handling. Zippier than the bigger beast I drove before, but definitely not the greatest sports-car handling. Love the storage and gas mileage. Put my bike in the back on its side with the seats down without removing the front wheel. I upgraded to get the side airbags. Stereo is excellent. Great for mostly city driving, with lots of potholes and stop-and-go driving. Plenty of headroom, but for someone 61" Id rather sit an inch or two lower than the seat will go. Still breaking it in--but Ive only filled up the tank once in the past month. THAT I can live with!
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Toyota matrix XRS - 2003 Toyota Matrix
By codywindham - August 17 - 11:52 pmI am 16 years old and bought this as my first car. It has 241000 miles on it but it still runs like its new. It has great pickup and great handling and is really fun to drive. It gets decent gas mileage. The only thing I had to do was change the hoses but that is normal with cars with a lot of miles. I highly recommend this car.
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Do yourself a favor - drive one! - 2004 Toyota Matrix
By Robert Desrosiers - August 10 - 10:00 amIf you think you want an SUV but you know that youll spend 99% of your time on paved roads and you only need room for 4 or less passengers, then you owe it to yourself to look at a Matrix. Seats 4 adults comfortably with plenty of leg and headroom. Rear seats and front passenger seat fold completely flat for hauling cargo. Friends who have driven my Matrix comment on 1) the excellent driving position and 2) the ease at which the manual transmission shifts. Look folks, its simple: at $2+ per gallon of gas these days youd be fuelish to pass up on an opportunity to save big $ annually at the pump, not to mention the $ youll save vs. the cost of an SUV.
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Toyota Matrix - 2004 Toyota Matrix
By ymmat - August 10 - 2:00 amTHis car hadles very nicely and gets great mileage. The front wheel drive is great for city driving and ok on flat snow terrain. However, it has very poor traction on ice and snow so traction devicds are a must. With the larger wheels, even the smallest/ tightest cable chains hit the wheel wells. THe interior is comfortable and appealing. The angle of the steering wheel is not ergonomicaly correct for a person 54". Visibility and seat comfort is great. Interior polycarbonate material scratches easily. My radiant red car gets lots of looks and copliments especially from the younger crowd.
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My Matrix - 2004 Toyota Matrix
By Nicesutherngal - August 10 - 2:00 amThis vehicel drives beautifully; smooth, comfortable even on long road trips. Its quiet, handles well in curves, hugs the road. Its just the right size if you dont want a full sized SUV and a 4-dr sedan isnt large enough. Gas mileage is excellent.
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I love my Matrix - 2003 Toyota Matrix
By kanndo - August 10 - 2:00 amfun to drive, good power
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Love my Matrix - 2009 Toyota Matrix
By RM - August 8 - 9:56 pmGreat performance, so far has been reliable. Ive enjoyed driving this car. Handles great. Headrest is very uncomfortable, causes pain in the neck and back. A little hard on fuel. Other than that I would say Matrix is a great car, I have a S AWD.
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GOOD CHOICE BUT ONE QUIRK - 2007 Toyota Matrix
By MikefromAlberta - August 8 - 3:43 pmWe bought our second hand 07 Matrix XR in April of 07 and had it for almost 3 yrs. It has been very reliable. It has adequate power and is decent on fuel (about 42 miles/imperial gallon).It is extremely versatile and has great interior room. With winter snow tires, traction is excellent and it has no problem handling our Canadian winters. It does have one quirk and Im not sure if our car is unique. It has the standard 1.8 engine and an automatic transmission. I brought it in a couple of times to the dealership and mentioned that it did not upshift smoothly after slowing down in city traffic. They couldnt help but by accident I realize that burning higher octane fuel solved the problem.
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Matrix Best Little Car - 2006 Toyota Matrix
By sandy - August 7 - 11:13 pmThis car is easy to drive and get into small parking spaces.
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Toyota Matrix XR - 2004 Toyota Matrix
By michele C - July 30 - 10:00 amThe Toyota Matrix XR is a great car. It looks great and fun to drive. The car has good gas milage.The inside is roomy.
