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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  Matrix-Great buy - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Matrix - June 23 - 10:03 pm

  Ive had my Matrix for little over a year now and love it. The gas mileage is great and its fun to drive. Wonderful if you have kids in sports.

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  Steves Matrix - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Steven Blough - June 20 - 12:43 am

  Excellent, no compaints. Matrix runs great and also gets great gas mileage. I am averageing close to 40 mpg on trips. Lots of room in the back with seat down. I have used it for sleeping on several trips and found it very comfortable. The AC outlet has been very helpful for things like, charging phone, recharging camera batteries and playing cd player or video games. I have had it for over 3 years now and am very satisfied!!!!

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  Not as good as I thought it would be - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By greenplant - June 17 - 2:03 am

  Gets great gas mileage (avg 33 mpg in mixed driving), comfortable, easy to get in and out, plenty of power in the base model AT, but fit and finish is horrible, rattles in several places, exterior paint chips all over the front (I say paint is bubbling, dealer says road debris), if thats the case, the design is poor, it looks good, but the paint will be destroyed by simple everyday driving. This has never occurred with other cars Ive owned and driven on the very same roads.

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  I have no comments, Im happy - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By rmirandayopo - June 15 - 10:00 am

  Good millage, roomy, good outside vision

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  the best small car - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By rogeraug - June 15 - 10:00 am

  thebest small car i have ever owned.

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  A Fatal Flaw - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Jere - June 13 - 10:00 am

  The Toyota Matrix HR would be my choice of an all around vehicle, but for one serious flaw - poor visibility of the instrument panel during daylight hours in bright sunlight, or when wearing sunglasses. This is not a minor flaw, as having to squint, stare, remove sunglasses, or attempt to shade the instruments from the sun is a dangerous safety hazard. Driver attention is diverted from the road for far too long to be safe. Oil and water malfuctions can ruin an engine if not seen in time. The bottom line is that the function of an instrument panel is defeated if it cannot be seen in a quick glance by the driver.

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  Test Drive - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By anonymous - June 13 - 4:30 am

  Based on a test drive, I feel that the matrix is a very well-designed car. It is versatile (folding the front passenger seat and the back seats down provides room for a lot of stuff), and it is sporty (good acceleration & braking, and a smooth but slightly firm ride). The two things that impressed me the most were the roomy feel (decent back seat leg room and good head room) and the ride (much smoother than expected).

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  Matrix Overview - 2007 Toyota Matrix
  By Kiana - June 10 - 8:56 am

  Rides like a truck. The gas pedal is very touchy. Easy to squeal tires when trying to enter into traffic. Price was right. Interior looks cheap. Excellent stereo system compared to most vehicles.

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  A great little car - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By BillL Leider - June 8 - 3:46 pm

  This is my first foreign car. I bought it based on its reputation for durability and reliability. As of this writing I have @ 900 miles on this car with absolutely no problems at all. It holds four adults in a greater degree of comfort than I would have expected for a compact station wagon. Its very economical around town, and once I get past the 1000 mile engine break-in period we will take it on an extended vacation where I expect it to get at least the advertised fuel economy of 34 mpg. Its a great little car.

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  Just the best! - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Jeff - June 7 - 5:53 pm

  This is by far the the best vehicle I have ever owned. It was my first Toyota and that is all I will ever buy from now on. 180,000 miles on it and not a single problem. Nothing but brakes and spark plugs. The all wheel drive is amazing I live in Canada and it goes through the snow better than my 4x4 truck. Fuel is about 36 mpg highway. Great car!