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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  Poor Toyota support. Very poor traction. - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Will Keith - June 7 - 3:23 am

  Our 2003 Matrix, only 58,454 km. Alternator dead. Car is past the 5 year warranty period. However, alternators - especially on Toyotas - should last longer than 58,454 km. Toyota Canada says replacing alternator not covered, even at this low mileage. Toyota suggested I pay a Toyota dealer to check the system officially, but admitted they likely wont help us out on this anyway. Replace with a rebuilt - not new - alternator is over $500. The fact that we have 5 Toyotas in our family didnt seem to matter: the person on the phone just kept reading from the policy manual.

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  Its a Keeper - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Sparky - June 4 - 1:36 pm

  I bought this car, needing a daily commuter that got good gas mileage, but with enough room for when Im hauling the 4 kids. I have occasionally kicked myself for not getting the Scion tC instead, bigger engine, more power, more stylish and fun, auto transmission etc., but opted for the Matrix because of the headroom, especially in the back seat, my 13 year old son is nearly 6 ft tall. But all in all, the more miles I put on this car, the better I like it. It has been rock solid since day one, and the mileage keeps getting better! (currently averaging 35.9 over the last 5k miles. Cargo room is unbelievable, I can easily fit two large Costco carts of groceries inside!

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  Everything I Expected - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By JohnC19 - June 1 - 8:23 pm

  Ive owned my 2005 Matrix XR 5-speed for 4 months and so far have nothing but good things to say about the car. My Matrix is fun to drive, has very comfortable and supportive seats, lots of passenger room, and gets very good gas mileage. The lowest I have gotten is 31 MPG, and that was on the first tank of gas from the dealership. Since then it has averaged 34 - 36 MPG, depending on how much highway driving is included. I know people who have bought Hybrid vehicles (Civic and Prius) who dont get that much better mileage (40 - 45 MPG) to justify the higher price. My Matrix was under $17K OTD. The car has no squeaks or rattles and feels like it will hold up well for the next 10 years.

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  my opinion - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By ron yuckles - June 1 - 10:00 am

  the quality is toyota through and through........i love what you do for me-toyota.

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  i like it - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By dragon - May 30 - 1:40 pm

  taken on 3 long trips over 300 miles each never had any problems w/noise or anything else i find it a joy to drive and still get great mileage approx 28 in town

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  So far a fantastic econimic family car - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By sunburst metallic - May 27 - 10:03 pm

  We bought this car last month. We have only had it for about two weeks, but because of a move we have already put over 2k miles on it. We made 3 400 mile drives within a week on it, and I have to say wow. We avg about 32 mpg on the freeway. I am not a slow driver either. Avg speed was about 75 mph. A lot of time spent cruising at 80 mph. The car has decent pick up and go, it is not a race car, but it is enough to be comfortable. We have two young children that fit comfortably in the back seat with plenty of room. Though the Mazda 3 was more fun to drive, this won out because it was so much more practical. A perfect family car for those that want room with out driving an suv or minivan.

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  I love my car - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Barbara Cash - May 27 - 6:03 pm

  Before I bought this car I had an elderly Camry wagon with close to 300,000 miles on it. We do a lot of traveling so I wanted a new car. I fell in love with the MATRIX the first time I saw it. It is the perfect size and I love the sunroof. My husband and I travel all over California and into some parts of Nevada and we have really enjoyed this car. it is very comfortable and quite spacious for the two of us and all of our stuff. I am so glad that we bought it and I plan on driving it for many years to come.

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  Good car, no V6 - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Kre - May 26 - 10:00 am

  I have had a good experience with the Matrix thus far. I wish it came in a V6 though. But other than that, it is comfortable, reliable and affordable.

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  Matrix - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Monkee - May 26 - 10:00 am

  I really do like my Matrix XR but I have some things I dont like about it. The engine is loud, I have a 5 speed and when I shift at even a low RPM like 3K RPM the engine is literally screaming. The interior looks very cool but Ive had some problems with rattles in the dash and the door. The red gauges are hard to read. Blindspots are pretty bad in this car.

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  clutch - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Roz - May 23 - 10:00 am

  needed a new clutch early.