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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  MATRIX IS BEST CAR IN CLASS - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By halowse - January 26 - 10:00 am

  Only been driving for a month but it seems that Toyota has fixed everything that people complained about in the 03. Guages are bright and look cool, no rattles or squeaks, and the handles awesome. Got the 04 XR AWD because we do a lot of snowboarding in the winter and AWD seemed smart for getting in and out of the resorts. Even without the XRSs more powerful engine the car still seems really zippy, and the handling is incredible.

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  No yours is not the only one! - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By paulette - January 26 - 10:00 am

  Bought the XR 2wd. Sluggish steering response MoonRoof LEAKS! Rattles....all over the dash, glove compartment. Overall quality feels cheap. Buttons on radio wobble, park brake lever wobbles, wires in steering column can be seen. Front cup holder is awkward, rear holder is flimsy. Red dashboard lights can be difficult to read.

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  Matrix 2003 - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Goldfishpanda - January 26 - 10:00 am

  I have had this car fro a week. So far, I really love it. I couldnt get the color I wanted no matter how hard I tried (they are selling out fast with the rebate on 2003 models). But, the car drives very well and looks cool. I like all the compartments inside to store stuff. And, it has a lot of room for the passengers. Since the vehicle is taller, I am also sitting up higher than in a normal car - almost the same hight as a mini-van. I test drove Honda, Saturn, Maza, Hyundai, and some others,a nd settled on this car as my favorite and most quiet.

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  2006 XR, stick shift - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By Steve_Price - January 24 - 8:46 pm

  Fun to drive, holds an unbelievable amount of stuff, sips gasoline. I havent liked a new car this much since my 1965 Dodge Dart GT.

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  Two years later - 2007 Toyota Matrix
  By dennis jensen237 - January 17 - 5:46 pm

  Purchased this car two years ago and havent had any trouble with it. Its engine is noisy especially when the air conditioner is being operated. Driving up hills can add to the noise. The interior is useful and it comes it handy when transporting odd shaped objects. All in all I would purchase this vehicle again. I have to say its a great transportation car and the price was just over $13000.00 (new) gas mileage is only twenty -two combine but gets a good 32 mpg on the highway to and from Vegas.

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  Great car except for the transmission :( - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By tuxristo - January 13 - 7:13 pm

  I have found it to have just enough power, just enough size. I can fit anything in it. Its very comfortable on long trips. The manual transmission makes it nice to drive, since the engine is a bit small, but the great gas mileage more than makes up for it. But I dont trust it. Since the transmission failed at 108,000km with no explanation from Toyota, I am always worried that it will fail again, or that some other bearings will fail and leave me stranded, so for the last six months its been stressful to take this car on a longer trip. Theres nothing worse than not "trusting" your car! All in all, I love my Matrix, but I dont trust it.

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  Loving It! - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By fgouge - January 12 - 2:00 am

  I looked at all the SUVs in the $25,000 and this has more than any of them! What a great looking, great handling, versitle car! Its a blast to drive and a joy to ride in! Toyota did it right the first time with the car! The 6 speed and safety features are the tops! This will be my car until I pass it to my daughter in 6 years for her first car! I know it will go the distance and then some!

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  Wont buy another - 2007 Toyota Matrix
  By doberwoman - January 5 - 12:26 am

  I purchased my 2007 Matrix XR brand new, no one else even test drove it. I have 30,000 miles on it and so far at less than 20,000 miles they had to resurface the rotors, but the pads are just fine. They then replaced the belt. Then, they replaced the water pump and the belt again! Today I was driving down the road and it just died. Its in the shop right now. I dont know yet what this latest problem it, but of course it is out of warranty now. The car style is great for hauling stuff. Love the fold down back and passenger seats and love that the window in back opens without having to open the entire back.

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  Good Car For The Money - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Jon - January 3 - 4:30 pm

  This car give you everything from good fuel economy, good space for cargo, great style, very reliable, fun to drive with the six speed manual and it is quick when its RPMs are in the 8,000 range. Good car over all and would buy another one with no hesitation.

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  Buy XRS if you can!! - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Calshu - December 31 - 10:00 am

  Although I am very happy with my white Matrix, I am not used to 130 Horse Power (HP) after driving V6 Maxima for many years. Dont get me wrong. 130 HP is good enough, but more HP could of have been better. I should of pay a couple more thousands to get XRS model. Remember XRS comes with 180HP and 17 inch wheel vs XR only come with 130 HP with 16inch wheel. I havent seen any White Matrix. White is much better than silver. Toyota silver are ugly! Get either Cosmic blue, or red.