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 Love - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By sdstinger - November 6 - 2:00 am

  Been a Honda guy for 15 years and my mechanic said i should give toyota a shot. So i did, and im really really happy with the Matrix XRS. If you are going to buy the matrix and youve driven CRXs and VTECs you must get the XRS. In fact go all out do all that you can with TRD, exhaust, sway bars 17"rims, strut bar, intake, synth. oil and youll really be impressed with the performance and fuel economy.

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  Such a good Choice - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By CupidT - November 2 - 2:33 am

  It is my first car purchase and I LOVE IT. I love the shape of it, I love my red lights on the inside, I love being able to see the song playing on the radio. Im tall about 511 and my knees dont hit the steering wheel.

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  Such a good Choice - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By CupidT - November 2 - 2:33 am

  It is my first car purchase and I LOVE IT. I love the shape of it, I love my red lights on the inside, I love being able to see the song playing on the radio. Im tall about 511 and my knees dont hit the steering wheel.

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  All around hit - 2007 Toyota Matrix
  By Afield - November 2 - 12:10 am

  This is my first new car purchase since 1994! I love my Matrix!! I never thought Id be able to afford the car I wanted but the Matrix was both affordable and comfortable. Its a great car for tailgating and for all my gardening adventures because it just wipes clean.

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  Very versatile vehicle - 2010 Toyota Matrix
  By Special Ed - October 25 - 5:16 pm

  Have driven over 2500 miles, and averaged between 29-32 mpg. Relatively quiet ride under 70 mph. Very roomy interior with comfortable front and rear seats with good visibility. Easy for older people to enter both the front and rear seating area. Plenty of cargo space and with the rear seats folded flat to the floor, will accommodate large objects. The basic 1.8 engine has enough power up hills and passing on highways along with better fuel economy.

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  The car I will most gladly trade-in - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By robert - October 22 - 12:46 pm

  Engine noise is predominant especially when revving engine. Steering is easy to handle with more grips on the road. Instrumentation controls stinks.

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  Not your parents Toyota - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Last Toyota - October 19 - 7:43 pm

  This was our first new car purchase, and given our extensive Toyota experience (5 previous used Toyotas), we were expecting much. The flexibility of a 64/40 fold-flat rear seat with solid plastic cargo liner was outstanding. So too was the fold-forward passenger seats, which extend the size of possible cargo to 8 in length! Unfortunately the other aspects of the car werent panning out so well. To summarize, performance, economy, fit-and-finish, trouble free driving, and fun to drive quotients were just not living up to the claims. After repeated problems with MAP sensors and various parts breaking repeatedly, if fell out of love. Now 7 years old, Ive seen enough of my last Toyota.

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  Excellent Value, ride and quality - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By Garry - October 16 - 10:13 pm

  I traded a Tundra for the Matrix. I thought I would miss the truck. Not at all. This car is amazingly roomy and comfortable. Great fuel economy and pep for a 4 cyl. I have owned Toyotas for over 30 years and will not buy anything else. While you might pay a "little" more than other vehicles, in the long run, you will come out way ahead.

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  Very Good - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By MJ - October 16 - 2:06 pm

  I like my Matrix, however, I would like it even more if it came with a cruise control. It was the only 2006 on the lot, and at the time did not think it would matter. After owning one, I find that it does matter. Because it drives so smooth on the highway that before realizing it, I catch myself speeding. It would also be nice if it had an interrior dome light. All the other things it comes with are awesome! But without the cruise control and the interrior lights, Im thinking about trading it in for one that has it. But looking around, its amazing how having those two features jacks-up the price of the car way too much.

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  Doesnt look like a wagon - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Kriget - October 9 - 10:00 am

  The car does it all and the all wheel drive is still zippy! Skipping the gas pump is even better!