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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  Toyota Matrix 2004 - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By rmcswain72 - September 30 - 10:00 am

  I really love this car. Its versatile, has great gas mileage, and a nice sporty look.

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  Great Matrix! - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By jon cartridge - September 30 - 10:00 am

  this is the car for anyone who wants comfort, style, and a reliable car!

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  Excellent car - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By greg - September 24 - 9:40 pm

  We bought this car new. It has not had any problems. We even pull a 10X6 trailer around town three or four times a year. It has 106,000 miles on it. My kids have broken the back exterior door handles due to pulling down instead of just out (due to their height). Other than that - it is a great car and we consistently get 31 mpg. There is a funny noise it makes when it is 45 degrees or colder until it warms up.

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  LIKE THE MATRIX - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By MIKE G - September 20 - 2:00 am

  THISIS AN EYE CATCHING VEHICLE AND WE WANTD TO REPLACE OUR COROLLA. WE WANTED SOMETHING USEFUL BUT NOT THE TANKS THAT ARE RUNNING AROUND. THE MATIX FIT THE BILL. HOLDS THE DOG, AND ALL KINDS OF STUFF. VERY NIMBLE, THE TRANSMISSION IS QUITE EFFICENT. VERY STRONG IN THE HILLS WITH SEVERAL ADULTS IT IT. GETS GREAT GAS MILEAGE, I WOULD BUY 2 IF I COULD.

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  XRS-2ZZ-GE - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Guy Hence - September 17 - 12:33 pm

  The Yamaha built engine in this car is terrific! Same as the expensive Lotus Elise and Exige! The XRS handles well and gets good mileage. Service is simple and low cost. This is a great car thats well built.

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  Spiffy Auto - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By cajunbeck - September 15 - 2:00 am

  Ive driven a variety of cars over the past 20 years; from a Super Beetle, to an RX-7, a Sienna Van, and now a Matrix. Who says a 50+ years young woman has to drive a MawMaw car. Due to the high cost of fuel I descided to downsize, but just didnt car for the style of most small cars. I also like to drive Toyotas. I just saw this car for the first time on the lot while getting my Sienna services, and one week later am driving a White XR. I find it has enough zip for the driving I do for work. Have not taken it out on the highway yet. Wished I had researched the car, and done more negotiation with the dealer on the price.

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  Fun, functional and versitile! - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Tpajou - September 15 - 2:00 am

  I purchased and XR auto version in February 02 and received it in July 02. I love the car. Its fun to drive, very functional and versitile. Great fuel economy too. I only had problems with the rattling dash and CD player that plays only half my CDs, even after 3 replacements. It is an economy car and not a luxtury car, so its not very quite and the materials are actually much better and others in this cathegory, but not like the camry!

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  A Kick to Drive - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Pennysaver - September 12 - 10:40 am

  Ive owned my 5 spd. XR for a year. Storage is incredible(seats fold absolutely flat and can carry 15+ bags of mulch, for example), turning radius is excellent, head and rear seating space is great, performance is very reliable and its easy to maneuver. Would prefer availability of 5 spd. manual on XRS 4WD, slightly higher grade of comfort (leather seats, wood trim, more upscale features) but its economical (32 MPG city, 39 MPG hwy)and comfortable and thats what counts.

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  S AWD - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Steven - September 7 - 4:03 am

  Driving experience is fun for a crossover AWD vehicle. Ride is fairly smooth and build quality seems good other than a crackle and pop here and there. The car has ample power for a 158 hp 4 cylinder with all wheel drive, especially when driven in 3rd. Has plenty of room in it and versatility. The car has good looks inside and out, and definitely doesnt blend in with the ugly looks of some of its competitors. The dash layout is very nice and sporty looking, and is easy on the eyes.

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  Identity Crisis - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By redpill - September 4 - 10:00 am

  Basically I love my new Matrix, will you? Who knows! I can say that you will at least love a few things that it does, and maybe even hate a few. It does almost everything you would like a car to do and more. Not a bad deal for 20,000!