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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  My little car. - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Marge McCulloch - July 30 - 10:00 am

  My car is just the car for northern Michigan. I live off the main road about 589 feet and to get to the hwy I have to drive up a pretty good grade. The 4 wheel drive is just great amd gives me a sense of confort. I also like the way the seats fold down for storage and the cover piece that keeps things out of view. The controls are placed very conviently and are easy to use. All in all I really think its a great car.

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  2005 toyota matrix ( caa) - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By clay adams - July 30 - 1:16 am

  Interior road noise, brakes squeak, brake pads wear out. Outside mirrors are a little too small. Seats are a little too low sitting

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  Love it - 2007 Toyota Matrix
  By Toti Shahin - July 16 - 5:43 am

  After my 98 Pontiac Sunfire became too expensive to fix, I had no choice but to purchase the Matrix XR, 2007, sport suspension. After driving it for almost two weeks now, I can say I like the handling, the way it drives around the corners, good mileage, roomy inside. The only thing annoying is sometimes something rattles from the dashboard, but I can put up with it. I wish it had more power going uphill, but then again I like my mpg (actually around 30). I like to drive fast.

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  My Matrix is 2003 - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By pam - July 13 - 11:43 am

  I purchased the Matrix the first year out, and it has been a great car. I find it drives well both in the city and on the highway. I traded a RAV4 for the Matrix and I like it so much better. There is plenty of cargo room and the fuel mileage at this time is a life saver. I have always been a Toyota woman, and have never really been disappointed. For the money, I think this is the best value on the road.

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  JDBs Review - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By jbrough - July 10 - 10:00 am

  Vehicle handles well, with the 16" tires it has a good ride.

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  04 Matrix XRS 150K Miles Review - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By OingoBo - July 9 - 9:10 pm

  I am a driver. The transmission is very well matched. Replaced clutch at 110K miles. Only normal maintenance required. I love the sound it makes at high revs.

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  Toyota has started to fall - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Stan - July 6 - 9:46 pm

  I bought a Toyota after having Jeeps, Fords, and Chevys and I thought I could buy a car that would last 200,000 miles. I was wrong. I am very unhappy with this car and I probably wont buy another Toyota. I will go back to Ford or Chevy. What is wrong: - Constant Chirp, Chirp under the hood. (The belt and tensioner have been fixed and or replaced 4 times.) I only have 71,000 miles on the car. - Drivers door wont unlock without key. - Tires had to be replaced at 15,000 miles. - Fan motor replaced at 45,000 miles as it would not work all the time. I never had a problem with my 1991 Ford Explorer or my 2002 Ford Explorer or my Chevy Pickup (S10). No more Toyotas at my house.

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  Good value - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Baystater - July 3 - 2:20 pm

  Bought an09 base model 1.8L manual with power package June 1 of 2008 for 16K. Have 13500 miles on it. Smooth ride, smooth shifting, excellent stability control for cornering, excellent disc brakes, decent gas mileage (28-29 city and 34-35 highway), good cargo capacity (can fit my bike w/o taking wheel off), very readable dash, adjustable telescopic steering wheel, seat comfort lacking in lumbar support, poor paint job (easily scratches from road debris), and horrible rear visibility (almost didnt buy it because of poor visibility). Given price difference with a Prius, e.g. 16K vs 23K, I figured it was a better value. Glad I bought it.

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  awesome car !! - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By barbara - June 29 - 4:33 am

  I just got the AWD Matrix yesterday. I love it !! I am down sizing from a Toyota 4 Runner. Its fun and easy to drive. As fast as a bullet ! I got the radiant red loaded one. I have never had so much fun driving a car. I am 47 years old.

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  Fun to drive economy sports family car - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By nyedward - June 27 - 2:00 am

  Ive only had this car for a couple of weeks, but Ive been in love with it since day one. It looks small from outside, but once youre in, its emazing what you can fit into the cargo room thats available. Head room is owesome for all 5 potential passengers. I have a couple of friends that are over 6 tall, and even they found it to be very comfortable. Its not as powerful and sporty as it looks when it comes to speed and performance, not that I was looking to race in it.