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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  Great little car!! - 2008 Toyota Matrix
  By JRhockey - October 5 - 2:23 pm

  I bought this car to replace my Corolla. Its not only a replacement, but a major step up! It handles great, has good fuel economy, and to top it off, is really cute!

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  Love this car - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Ray Edwards - October 1 - 1:30 am

  I bought this car for my wife and bought a second for my son. Both cars have the craftsmanship that you expect from Toyota.The interior is much roomier than you would expect from a car that is built on Corolla specs. With the seats folded down, my son can easily fit his road bike inside without removing the front tire. The vehicle gets very good gas mileage (recently on a highway trip we got 32 mpg). Many people stop us and ask about the car, and we always give rave reviews.

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  A very slow AWD wagon ! - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Emerson_ng - September 30 - 2:00 am

  I test-drove the Matrix in March 02 with my sister. She did eventually bought the AWD in July 02 after coming back from a trip. I dislike the fact that it is a VERY SLOW wagon. I drive the AWD Subaru Outback, it is also 4 cylinder and with 165 horse and 155 lb-t, some areas get 158 lb-t. Man, I feel that the Matrix is just a shameful product by Toyota. It does get you to the snow mountains, but only without much passengers and other additional lugguages and weights.

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  2005 Toyota Matrix - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Daniel Royle - September 27 - 9:23 am

  Purchased this vehicle for my wife who did not need her Dodge Minivan anymore. The Matrix is well made and is fun to drive. She loves it. We bought the base model which did not come with mudflaps or cruise control so those items were added. Only complaint is that the base model does not have power mirrors.

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  Get the XR and not XRS - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By bucksw - September 25 - 2:00 am

  Another review mentioned to get the XR and not the XRS and Im glad I took their advice. I test drove both the XRS and the XR with the sport package. I parked them side by side and could not tell the difference. Inside was exactly the same and the engine didnt feel that much more powerful on the XRS. Not only will you save thousands, but the gas mileage on the XR is 30/36 as opposed to 25/30 on the XRS. I love the car. It drives great and I have no problems with it. If you go XR I recommend getting the 5 speed Manual. Some say the XR is sluggish, but the 5 speed Manual is pretty good.

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  Great Car !!!!! - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By brw0520 - September 25 - 2:00 am

  I have had a nissan, Honda, and now i finally have the top of the line with Toyota. These cars are well known for quality and i am sure to get many years of satisfaction from this cuv.

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  Enter The Matrix - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By ANGWX - September 20 - 6:10 pm

  A MATRIX is a compromise, especially for me. Im an SUV guy in a $2/gal world. With that in mind, I commend Toyota for building sich a fine, cool, LARGE interior non-wagon wagon that allows a guys guy to drive it.

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  I really like this car! - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Ken - September 20 - 7:33 am

  Ive owned this car for about a month and my conclusion is I really like this car. Had an Accord prior and wanted to size down for more gas savings and better maneuverability with a small vehicle with good storage space. I liked the balance offered by the Matrix and thus far it has been a great little car. I got the 1.8 engine on purpose to save gas, and it is surprisingly peppy. Im going to the beach and its amazing what I can fit into such a little car. Im having a blast!

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  Love Matrix 2, 1.8 touring 5 sp manual - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Robtech - September 18 - 12:53 am

  This 2nd generation has better roadholding, theres no front wheel spin, it really holds the road well especially when climbing. I got 32mpg in mixed driving. Noticeable low end torque between 1900rpm to 2800rpm. I love this 2ZRFE 1.8L engine.

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  Matrix - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By MaherBigRed - September 8 - 10:00 am

  excellent car everyone should buy would never buy another car. Its great all colors look great.