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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  My Matrix - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By gtillery - July 21 - 2:00 am

  I drove a jeep Cherokee for 6 years. Compared to it, this vehicle is a dream. No effort is required to drive my Matrix. We have had a fairly deep snow (12"). It drove like a dream. The Cherokee would slip, this did not 1 time. The gas mileage difference is phenonemal. I can haul as much as I could in my Jeep and the seats are much easier to operate. GO TOYOTA. I LOVE IT!

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  Matrix 2003 - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Paul Royka - July 19 - 2:06 am

  Great cross-over from Toyota. We had a Mountaineer and replaced it with the Matrix and what a fun car, SUV, sports car or whatever you want to use and feel from this vehicle. It has a little bit from all.

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  I still love this car! - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Vickie - July 11 - 4:36 pm

  I bought this car brand new in 2005 and 3 years later I still love this car! Its roomy, drives smooth and is cute! This car is very reliable and even with 143,000 miles on it I know I can still count on my Matrix!

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  Its OK. - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Jim Chronister - July 9 - 5:46 am

  High RPM (6000 to 8000) operating performance is impressive, but it over revs quickly. Slow off the line (little torque). Handling is good. Several blind spots. Total fuel economy is 31.6 MPG with 65000 miles.

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  Close Game - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By AndrewEnder - July 2 - 2:00 am

  We were initially deciding between the Protege5 and the Matrix. Decided to purchase the Matrix because of its sturdy "flatbed-like" backing when the seats were folded down vs. Protege5s convertable sofa like folding seats. The rides a bit rough - not used to the stiffer suspensions. But, generally, its a great car for its versatility. The road noise is just a bit loud.

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  Good - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Brittany Huneycutt - June 28 - 1:26 am

  This is a wonderful car that turns heads in all the right ways and has great control and handling.

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  2005 XR 5-speed - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By John - June 27 - 5:33 pm

  I have been completely satisfied with my Matrix after 1 year of ownership. It has been completely reliable and gas mileage as good as advertised at 33-36 MPG. It wont win any races for speed, but I knew that when I bought it.

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  Very happy with it! - 2007 Toyota Matrix
  By Pogradeci - June 22 - 9:16 pm

  After having been driven an Aurora and spending thousands of dollars on gas and repair, I decided to buy a Toyota car. Since my 1st choice the Prius was a little over my budget, decided to go with the Matrix. Bottom line I am very happy with my choice. The car is easy to drive, has a lot of cargo space and I spend much less time at the gas pump.

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  Love it! - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By emineee - June 9 - 2:00 am

  This is the first brand new car I had ever bought myself. I love it. My former car, a Prizm, set the bar pretty high for fuel mileage, but so far the Matrix is living up to its predecessor. The mileage is very important to me and the environment. The Matrix also offers more room, a comfortable ride, it handled great in the recent 7 inches of snow North Dakota got, and its zippy. People are drawn to it when they see it--and fall in love with it soon after. It also has more back seat room than the RAV-4 I looked at and it was cheaper.

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  The Matrix Almost Had Me - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Nearly Neo - June 7 - 10:00 am

  The cargo bed is all hard plastic, if you toss anything back there, its gonna scrape and slide all over the place! Driving the Matrix was not a bad experience. The automatic transmission is smooth, yet a bit slow from a stand still (perhaps a manual would be snappier off the line). The car had a slight delivery van feel to me, particularly in cornering. And the instrument gauges- more than half the drive- I could not see them!- Frustrating! All around visibilty was excellent, however.- No problems in seeing the surrounding traffic. I walked away in appreciation of this new Toyota, but not in love.