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 Toyota Matrix
  By Robin20 - August 2 - 2:00 am

  This little car has been wonderful for me. I am an outside salesperson. I love the room. I love the mileage. And we have ffound it great for camping. Not real crazy about the plastic deck in the bck. We added padding so that cargo wouldnt slide so much. Other wise, I really like my Matrix.

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  Fun Drive - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By mbelanger - July 31 - 10:20 am

  This is the perfect car for me. It is a fun ride, a safe vehicle, very reliable, high quality construction and very economical. For those who want something smaller then the RAV4 this vehicle is perfect. I urge you to get the anti lock brakes, and the AWD. I had owned a Corolla SR5 in the 80s and loved it. This is the evolution of that car which captures the spirit of the SR5 and also gives you the versatility of a wagon. I have owned some nice cars, the Matrix is at the top of the list.

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  Matrix is a blast - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By adam - July 21 - 3:23 pm

  This car is much improved for 09. The 2.4 liter Camry motor makes this car a rocket but still a miser with the gas. The look is really sporty I get lots of compliments. No squeaks or rattles. Rear visibility is compromised with the new design but not unbearable. The 18" wheels on the XRS are sharp. You really forget this is a great practical utility vehicle.Th

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  OCEAN MATRIX - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By tim bannister - July 16 - 9:10 am

  FUN CAR TO DRIVE, REALLY ROOMY EXCEPT IN THE FRONT SEAT

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  excellent - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By alexmojo - July 13 - 2:00 am

  ive driven other cars like bmw and mercedes, but maybe im too young, matrix is the most fun car!

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  AWD Matrix aka "Snowball" - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Tom - July 8 - 10:56 pm

  We bought this car for my wife to use, since it was Super White, my daughter called it "Snowball". Its been fun to own and we realy like how functional it is. It parks and has the fuel economoy of a small sedan, (we get about 31 mpg on the highway a little less in the city), the capacity of a wagon and the AWD of a SUV. While the engine could use additional hp, I am willing to accept it for better fuel economy. While I wasnt too happy with the looks of the car, it does grow on you. After all, its kinda hard to go wrong with a Toyota!

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  Great little car! - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By marie - July 5 - 5:26 am

  I have researched all the cars in this class and I decided that I really liked the matrix better, it looked nice and has lots of room, we are a family of four that fit inside comfortably. Quiet ride and great handling and good on gas.

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  Verry happy with the car - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By matrixownerinPA - June 27 - 2:00 am

  Ive had the car for around 2 months/3000 miles, and am very happy with it. For sure its not the quickest thing on the road, and I kinda miss my 5-speed, but its still fun to drive, ride in, and look at. The AWD system works well, and adds some confidence on wet roads (still waiting for the first big snowfall to try it in the snow!). The back seat is really roomy -- and the tall doors make it easy to get the baby in and out of the car seat without anyones head getting bumped (his or mine...).

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  Our Trix - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By T&K - June 27 - 2:00 am

  fun lil car ,roomy

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  Mileage is better than advertised - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By happy matrix owner - June 24 - 5:16 pm

  Bought the car new after test driving Honda Fit, Scion XD, 08 Matrix. Was looking for best combination of gas mileage and space. This one has it. Now have 2800 miles on the car and the worst mpg was 32, best was 34. This is daily commute into Washington DC, combination of half highway, half parking lot.