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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  Love it - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Katy - September 1 - 2:23 pm

  Weve owned the matrix for 5 years now and it has over 100,000 miles. Only routine maintenance. Bought for the interior flexibility since we have 2 dogs. We bought ours used but would have preferred the V6 for a little more pep. We have had a very good experience and plan to drive this car for another 100,000 miles.

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  Toyota Mavin - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By Penni - September 1 - 10:56 am

  The Matrix is one of the most fun vehicles I have owned. It is quiet, peppy in town, smooth riding, and response handling. My model is a loaded XR front wheel drive with the side spoilers in Phantom Gray Pearl. The six-disc radio has wonderful sound. Even my dog loves the car - she begs to go for rides. Gas mileage is a little lower than I expected, but I am averaging 24 mpg in town and 32 mpg on the highway with an automatic transmission. I just added the sunroof deflector - a good improvement with the sunroof open.

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  Love my Matrix XRS - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By hlnkid - August 27 - 1:30 pm

  I purchased my 2009 Matrix XRS 3 weeks ago, downsizing from a Highlander. I absolutely love it! XRS model comes with 18" wheels, that roughen the ride a tiny bit, but they handle beautifully, esp around turns. Great sporty look and feel. XRS comes standard with rear spoiler, helping to give the car a bit more ump to its looks. Good interior room, easy controls. A few small blind spots in rear, but easy to get used to. Im not at all disappointed with my purchase. Id highly recommend the 2009 Matrix to anyone looking for a solid smaller car with great handling, good gas mileage and one thats fun to drive!

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  The 1.8L is great too - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By docket - August 25 - 12:06 am

  I never thought I could love a car so much. There is so much room inside, yet it is small on the outside. The ride is smooth and the seats comfortable. My dad is still talking about how he could fit in the backseat with ease (all 350 pounds of him). The gas mileage is averaging 25 mpg with a combination of city & highway driving.

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  Best choice for us - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By alvin lau - August 24 - 7:36 pm

  My round trip commute is 50 miles. I needed a safe, reliable, practical and economical car. After studying the competition (Honda CR-V, Subaru Legacy wagon, etc.) I decided on a Matrix XR 4WD & havent been disappointed yet. The build quality appears good, the car has enough pep for stop & go traffic as well as cruising at 70+mph. Despite carrying two full-sized adults w/ defrost always on, I average 26mpg so far. The interior is quite roomy for a small car and the flexibility of the fold-flat seats is great. Things do slide around the back a bit but there are cargo nets and tie-downs. My Matrix is easy to maneuver, fun to drive and Toyota is generally reliable - recommended!

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  My Boy - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By cc - August 23 - 8:33 pm

  This little car has all the benefits of a small, sporty fuel sipper and the hauling capabilities of a minivan. He drives noisy and eats parking bumps (too low). I will keep him until the hybrid is born.

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  I love this car! - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By thomas144 - August 22 - 2:00 am

  Ive never owned a car I was so crazy about. Fun to drive. Great ride. Plenty of power. Practical. My only minor complaint is that for a car with tons of headroom, the rear hatch doesnt quite raise up high enough, and I have a tendency to hit my head on it. I went to the dealership expecting to buy a Highlander, but didnt like it after 2 test drives, so I tried a Matrix on a whim and I loved it from the start.

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  Not What I Expected - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Dissapointed - August 16 - 9:50 pm

  This vehicle replaced a 2005 Toyota Corolla, The Corolla was nearly a perfect vehicle. The Matrix isnt even close to the quality or integrity of the Corolla. The interior plastic is of very poor quality and appearance. The gas mileage as far, far less than the Corolla. Its hard to believe the Matrix is a Toyota. I am not at all pleased with the Matrix. This vehicle has caused me to substantially lower my opinion of Toyota.

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  First Impression - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By dandport - August 3 - 2:00 am

  the matrix is a nice car. i got the XRS, automatic. shouldve gone with the 5/6 speed version. The RPM is at 3000 going at 70mph, sucks.. should be less than that if u get the 5/6 speed version. Muffler is kind of noisy.. (this could be a plus or minus depends on you... its the kind of noise u find in a typical fixed civic). The only thing is the RPM @ 70mph is too high... needs lower/higher gear ratios which u should be able to get with a 5/6 speed version, although its a manual

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  Matrix 08--so far so good - 2008 Toyota Matrix
  By matrixdriver - August 1 - 4:13 am

  I needed the most fuel efficient car I could find that could still carry a bunch of stuff. There were some good hybrid options, but they were too pricey and Im unsure about the battery technology. So, I checked out the Matrix, Fit, and Mazda 3. They are all good cars that would have worked, but I went with the Matrix because I got a pretty good price, got a long warranty, and it had all the features I needed. Had a little more space than the Fit and was more comfortable in the driving position. I was also hoping to have something very reliable, and Toyota along with the Corolla this is based on, seemed perfect. 23,000 miles in it still seems like the right choice.