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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  Biggest Little Car in Town! - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By fb - February 21 - 2:16 am

  Terrific car. Ive fit sheet rock and lumber, furniture, and my critters (3 dogs and 2 cats) in this car with plenty of room to spare.

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  Love my Matrix - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Trigrl - February 20 - 2:00 am

  I love my Matrix. It is sporty looking and fun to drive. It fits my bike and surfboard inside...and I have actually camped inside the car and slept on the flat bed!

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  Matrix Driver - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By flmthgrl - February 16 - 1:23 pm

  Great little car, handles well in snow. fun to drive, but can be a bit of a noisy ride. Wish AWD version got better mileage. Even though this car is small, it is very adaptable with fold-down seats, hatchback etc.

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  Not too bad.....BUT - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By toyota fan - February 13 - 10:00 am

  Overall a nice car, BUT there is always room for improvements. I learned quick that if you want good Toyota service, you sometimes have to file a complaint! The master cylinder went out at 4000 miles- needless to say we werent too happy and the service department wasnt very kind- but we just called the 1-800 number and had a little talk with Toyota- the problem was then solved correctly AND with a smile! Roomy ride, awesome design, and I love the interior! We did purchase the XR with the smaller engine just because I didnt believe the larger engine to be worth the extra cash. So far, after 8000 miles we are happy with the smaller engine.

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  Not too bad.....BUT - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Toyota Fan - February 13 - 10:00 am

  Overall a nice car, BUT there is always room for improvements. I learned quick that if you want good Toyota service, you sometimes have to file a complaint! The master cylinder went out at 4000 miles- needless to say we werent too happy and the service department wasnt very kind- but we just called the 1-800 number and had a little talk with Toyota- the problem was then solved correctly AND with a smile! Roomy ride, awesome design, and I love the interior! We did purchase the XR with the smaller engine just because I didnt believe the larger engine to be worth the extra cash. So far, after 8000 miles we are happy with the smaller engine.

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  Not Your Mommas Station Wagon - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By thirtysomething - February 8 - 10:00 am

  We were shopping for a car that could hual 2 adults and 2 babies with all their gear and still be fun for under 25k. This is it. Forget reviews that suggested sticking to the XR - its fun to rev a car up to nearly 8 grand on the tach. Open the moonroof, turn up the great sounding JBL soundsystem with 6 speakers + subwoofer and let it scream. We needed practicality, we wanted fun, the XRS delivers both. Still a safe car - front and side airbags, ABS and the best brakes Ive ever stomped on. Comfy seats, roomy all over for a vehicle in its price range. Drive it and smile.

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  I love my car! - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By elf08 - February 2 - 8:46 pm

  Ive wanted a Matrix ever since they came out, and I got my wish this year!! It is everything I expected it to be, and I am very happy w/ it. It runs great, gets good gas mileage, its adorable and its so fun to drive. Ive gotten a lot of compliments on the looks of it.

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  Great Little Car - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By AndyLG - January 31 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car for the mileage and style. I got the Radiant Red exterior, and coupled with aluminum wheels and the red gauges it reminds me of my old 1979 Honda CBX motorcycle, only more practical.

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  This is One Tricked Out Pony - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Prosim25 - January 31 - 2:00 am

  This car drives like a high performance vehicle, but is a practicle utility vehicle. Inside it feels like an SUV its so big. I would recommend this car to anyone who is afraid to "grow up" to a mini-van but actually needs the cargo space and head room. And for anyone who lives around Western Massachusetts, I would HIGHLY recommend Toyota of Greenfield. After all the research that I did for this car, I only ended up paying $500 dollars over the invoice price. -Bill

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  5 speed Matrix - 2007 Toyota Matrix
  By BEADIE - January 30 - 8:30 am

  The Matrix is a Corolla wagon and is very similar to the Dodge Vibe. It has been a fun car to drive. What it lacks in power it makes up for in gas mileage. The interior of the hatch-back trunk is plastic so things can easily slide around. There are nets but we bought a mat that has helped to keep things from sliding around.