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 car - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By martixlover - December 12 - 10:00 am

  Its a great car! I just got mine and i love it. I took it up to the mountains and it handled great. its a smooth ride and has lots of room! I love it!!

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  I love my matrix - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By WEEEEEE!! - December 9 - 2:36 pm

  This car has been great it has never failed me once. The design is simple and easy to use. I love the power the 1.8 4 banger motor makes. Its awesome I had my matrix xrs at 140 mph (on a closed track of course). I bought this car coming from a Mercedes Benz and this car has been better. There is no traction control or stability control which is ok because you can throw this car where ever you want. Its so fun to drive I love it.

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  matrix - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By tony - December 6 - 12:16 pm

  This car has a great design, very well thought out designs by Toyota like the anchors in the back. Seats sit up pretty high so it give you a good view of the road and of course the build quality of this car is outstanding.

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  Love it! - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By FlowerChild - December 3 - 10:00 am

  I had purchased a 2003 Turbo Beetle in 2002 and was not happy with it because the check engine light started to come on for engine knocking with only 20,000 miles on it! I know I had warrenty on the thingy but buttons were falling off that I never touched and what not. So I had it with the Beetle. I was ready to go buy a Toyota which is what I had before and never had a single problem with it. I was very happy to find the Matrix because it was the perfect car for a college student! I will admit I do miss having my turbocharged engine, but when I found out you can put a supercharger on the Matrix that made me very happy!

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  XRS review - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By NJCosmic - December 3 - 10:00 am

  A great car for its price range. I have an RX300 and this car can haul just as much stuff but get twice the gas mileage. The car handles very well and the braking is excellent. Hit 6200 RPM and you get a boost of power that i call "LIFT" which is very addicting. I am an active person and i find this car very versitile. The split 60/40 rear seat feature is nice. I can carry my mountain bike or snowboards in the car with no problem. Add a cold-air intake, lowering springs, front strut brace and rear sway bar and youll have alot more fun than its stock form. I love this car.

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  A great car - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By r.berezin - December 3 - 10:00 am

  I just got a 2005 model and i think it is the GREATEST. I have the XR model. It rides GREAT. The seats are comfortable with plenty of leg room. The back seats are comfortable with plenty of leg room. There is plenty of storage space with all kinds of extra pockets. The fit and trim is exclent. The turning radis is GREAT. It drive like a car only better.

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  An Update - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By twocruzin - December 1 - 12:36 pm

  This is an update to a previous review. I have had this car for 14 months now and 17000 miles. It still runs as flawlessly as when I bought it and the ride is still as harsh as it was at the beginning. It rides okay on highways or the interstate, but its quite rough on less than ideal city streets. The suspension is quite hard. I mean the car barely moves when I push on the front bumper. I have not had the paint chip problem that many reviewers comment on. I have metallic paint on mine. Im not sure if all models do, but my experience has been that metallic paint holds up much better. Other than the ride, everything has been good - build quality, handling, appearance.

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  Great gas - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By k-man - November 28 - 2:30 pm

  I traded in my Toyota Tacoma because of the gas prices & because I drive 80 miles a day. Im getting 35 miles to the gallon highway. Its unbelievable. Of course I had slowed my driving down to 65 to 70 miles & hour & filled my tires to 35 lbs. But to get a pretty good looking car w/ 1.8L engine & fun to drive @ the same time get good gas mileage, what else can you say. Nothing.

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  Perfect For Dad and Mom - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Matrix Lover - November 24 - 2:00 am

  This car rocks!!! I purchased it about 6 months ago and I could not be happier. It is a well balanced vehicle and has both performance and practicality.

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  03 Matrix xr - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Brian - November 23 - 6:30 pm

  This car is well built and drives very nice. The lack of horsepower causes the car to have less pep with the 5 speed than I would prefer, but it is adequate for highway driving on average.I may not be able to run with some of the sportier cars , but it gets very good mileage on a tank of fuel and now it is more important than it used to be.