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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  I Love My Matrix - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By SUSAN - May 28 - 10:00 am

  I just picked up my 2004 Matrix RXS the other day and I LOVE it. It is bigger than I expected,roomey like a small SUV.Very diferent body style so you dont see yourself coming and going. I got the 6 speed manual trans with the 180 horse power. It handles like a sports car and can really get out of its own way. Reasonably priced and you cant beat a Toyota for reliability.

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  Oh! What A Feeling! - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Black Butterfly - May 28 - 10:00 am

  I just bought this car and I havent regretted buying it for one minute! It has the sleek sporty look of a sports car with the room of an SUV! The ride is so smooth its almost like youre floating. And the gas mileage! I have to use my car for my job, so I do a lot of inner city driving. I only have to fill up once a week and it doesnt put a dent in my pockets. I never got such great mileage with my Corolla!

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  mitch - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By mitch waufle - May 28 - 10:00 am

  best car i have owned

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  EUV, economy usable vehicle - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Mr Honda - May 28 - 10:00 am

  Worth every penny. Rock solid econohauler. Cheap materials inside, easily scratched but easy to care for. Gauges difficult to read in bright sun, nearly invisible. Lawsuit waiting to happen.

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  Matrix is a great car - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By MLA - May 23 - 9:53 pm

  I highly recommend the Toyota Matrix. Ive had mine almost 18 months and have enjoyed the experience. The Matrix has typical Toyota reliability, but its roominess and build allow you to use it for hauling many things or just taking lots of luggage on vacation.

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  Put to the test, and it passed! - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Jake - May 22 - 6:39 pm

  Let me start by saying I am not gentle with anything I own. I picked this car up with 180,000 miles for $2500 and it had not been taken care of. I learned how to drive stick on it and took it everywhere from the lower Sierra Nevada mountain range on trails where you need a 4x4, to out in the mohave desert where I jumed it so high I ripped the wheel wells out when I landed. It does not quit! The AC has always blown cold and the only thing that Ive ever done is give it an oil change, new tires, and a new clutch (that last one was my fault). Now sadly, just short of 200,000 miles the transmission has given out and it is on its way to the junk yard. But it has seen and done more than most trucks ever will and it has never left me stranded no matter where I go. The only thing that could be better is it has a little road noise and it doesnt shift very smooth, plus you have to put the clutch to the floor to shift. Mabey thats just mine but either way I am more than pleased with this car.

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  Love My Matix - 2008 Toyota Matrix
  By R P Foster - May 22 - 12:33 am

  I truly love my Matrix. A friend of mine bought a 2007 XR and she loves it. I am 6ft7in tall and weigh 276lbs. I have great head and leg room. Also the body style seems to sit higher than a standard car and this makes it easier to get in and out of. We have made 2 trips to Gulf Shores AL and found it to be a pleasure to drive.

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  Very happy with purchase - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By terry - May 19 - 2:00 am

  We have had the matrix now for over about 1.5 years and she has performed beautifully. 17k miles and not one trip back to the dealership. Gas mileage is 35 combined. the manual is fun to drive and has good acceleration. I bought this for my wife, but I admit that I enjoy driving it every now and then when I want to give my truck a rest.

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  I love my Matrix xr - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By catathome2 - May 18 - 4:36 am

  my matrix handles like a dream, and I feel safe in it. It is not really powerful, but I dont care for a lot of power, it just gets me speeding tickets that i dont need.

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  2004 Martix, So Far, A Great Deal - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Shell56 - May 16 - 2:00 am

  After much research I purchased a 2004 Matrix,base model with the power package,I got it for under $15,000 before the TT&L.I have added mud guards and am going to get the windows tinted.So far I am very pleased with it.It is ideal for hauling stuff, has a sporty look, plenty of room for passengers and is economical to run.This is one vehicle I can say I have fallen in love with, it is a lot for the money.I read it had a noisy engine,which it does,and that the dash dials can be hard to read in the sun light and that was true also but overall it is ideal for my situation.