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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  My Race Car - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By THX1138 - February 24 - 10:00 am

  Thats what my wife calls it anyway. It handles very well. The higher seat position exaggerates the feeling of lean in a turn. It stops very well. Brakes feel is good. The engine is loud above 3500rpm and pulls strongly from about 3k. It rides quietly in 6th. You can shift early and putter around quietly or you can rev it and hear the roar. This car will move if you want it to. The 6 speed shifts nicely. The throws are short and precise. The dead pedal is a little closer than Id like. The seating position is otherwise fine for me. Visibility is good. Ride is a little stiffer than my wifes 98 Civic, but still good enough for me with 17" wheels.

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  A great little car - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By cindeee - February 24 - 10:00 am

  This little car is fun to drive. It is good on gas milage and with the way the gas prices keep going up.... Its a good thing. I also like how easy it is carry stuff around.The sets are very easy to lay down for road trips or just going around town. Here where I live we can tinit our windows and I have Limo tint on the back 3 windows and a dark tint on the drivers side. The car looks sharpe!!!Great Car....

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  Toyota Matrix 2004 XR - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Kitkat - February 24 - 10:00 am

  I really enjoy the handling of the car. It is very comfortable to sit in as well as driving it. It has alot of room especially in the cargo area which really suprised me. I really cant think of anything that might be wrong.

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  Excellent for the Price - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By PP - February 8 - 10:00 am

  The Matrix fits my needs perfectly. I wanted a car smaller than an SUV and good on gas. An addition, a spacious car that allows me to put the seats down in the back. I have a C230 Benz and I drive the Matrix more than the Benz.

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  Amazing car all around - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Michael - February 6 - 1:14 pm

  Ive never owned a car I liked better. In fact, when the time came to upsize to a mini-van, I traded in my newer Honda Civic which had a lot fewer miles. The Matrix had proven itself a better car all around. This car very comfort for someone under 6 feet tall. Its robust, has tons of cargo space and gets good gas milage 27-28 mpg hwy. I use mine to commute 50 miles to work everyday and another 50 miles back home.

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  Jills 5-speed Matrix XRS - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By jill112 - February 4 - 7:56 am

  As a first-time Toyota owner, I was looking for a surrogate Honda Civic wagon. Im extemely disappointed in the quality--the transmission has already failed, requiring a $1300 repair. I had required maintenance performed ever since purchasing the car new, primarily by the dealership. While the car has a lot of potential, I will never buy another Toyota; anyone looking for a Matrix may want to avoid a 2003 manual transmission model.

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  04 MATRIX - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By drust - January 27 - 10:00 am

  I LOVE WHEN I AM DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AND PEOPLE YELL, I LOVE YOUR CAR, OR I LIKE THE COLOR OF YOUR CAR!-I HAVE PHANTOM GRAY.

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  Mazda3 Hatchback vs. Toyota Matrix - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By ftq - January 27 - 10:00 am

  This is a great looking car that handles great, and is very versitile. The Mazda3 is quite comparable, but it has a bigger engine (2.3L vs. 1.8L)and is also 5 inches longer. The matrix however sits higher the mazda which is great if you hate sitting in trafic and having low visability. It is higher then sedans and slighly lower then a Rav4 in terms of seating. Matrix is slightly wider and taller then the mazda3. Unfortunately I did not get to test drive a mazda3 before I purchased this car, as I fell in love with it the moment I took it for a test drive. It won out when I test drove a Rav4 and a camary before this one. Very comfortable seats, great for long trips. Toyota = Reliable!!

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  BEST VEHICLE UNDER $20K - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Joe Madsen - January 27 - 2:30 am

  Paid $17K with 20 miles on it. Ours had the power package (pw/pl/cruise/keyless entry) It has everything you need. Panic button on the key adds extra security. For this price you get a vehicle with 26/31 MPG (best of all AWD vehicles) Winner of 2003 Compact Wagon Comparison Test on this site. You cant go wrong with this Matrix!

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  This is our LAST Toyota - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Nita - January 25 - 2:50 am

  Weve always owned Toyotas, but the flimsy interior and easily scratchable exterior have convinced me to look elsewhere. I hate the plastic in the cargo area because it cracks and breaks. Our 89 Corolla looked much better inside and out after 16 years than this hunk of cheap junk does after 3 years. Toyota should be ashamed of itself for making this crummy product. I also dislike the engine hesitation, the whistling wind from the closed front passenger window, and the way the electronic window controls broke for no discernible reason.