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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  Fun, useful car - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By ed6061 - January 24 - 2:00 am

  This car is exactly what I was looking for - something to haul friends and stuff in - including filthy mountain bikes - without the hastle of a roof-rack. Interior stowage is plentiful and clever. The seat and driving position is great. Price is great. Wish it had more power (read torque - the 180hp engine has no more torque) Handles very well.

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  Best AWD buy - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By Mary Bethany Collins - January 19 - 6:30 am

  I live in the Berkshire Mountains (read mega snow and ice). This car, with all season radials, although packed in with snow from the plow, drives out like it was summer. What a delight. Add to that great gas mileage, space for luggage for a long trip and my huge German Shepherd, all the bells and whistles one could want (auto key, air, cruise, etc)--all for under $19,000--who could ask for more? And a Toyota to boot--I could find no better car on the road for reliability and long-term value, and I did my homework.

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  GOING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By SDRIFLEMAN - January 13 - 10:00 am

  I AM THE OWNER OF TWO MATRIX AND XRS 6SPEED MANUAL AND A XR 4WHEEL DRIVE THE XRS IS A FUN VEHICLE TO DRIVE IT IS VERY QUICK AND HANDLES GREAT IN AND OUT OF TRAFFIC THE XR DRIVES JUST AS GOOD HANDLES THE CORNERS BETTER THAT MOST OTHER CARS THE HEAD AND LEG ROOM IS GREAT I AM HOPING THAT TOUOYA COMES OUT WITH A TWO DOOR MODEL THIS CAR WOULD MAKE A GOOD RALLY CAR TOYOTA HAS DONE IT AGAIN

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  The Perfect Car - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By HighMiler - January 7 - 1:50 am

  Best car Ive ever owned. Period. Over 100,000 miles and NO PROBLEMS! Maintenance costs are low, fuel economy great. No mechanical problems. Only problem so far is a rattle in one of the (overall excellently designed) air vents. As for the complaints some have about power, Ive been able repeately to smoke people with base Mustangs (v6-automatic)! Enough room for 4 people with weekend camping/outdoor gear. My next car will be a Toyota. I wont even look at GM, Dodge or GM after experiences with their vehicles. Perfect replacement for a VW Diesel AND a Dodge Dakota.

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  More car than you may think - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By OGscience - January 6 - 2:00 am

  I actually bought one of the first cars on the lot in 2/2002, so Ive had it for nearly two years - folks still think its brand new! Surprisingly roomy interior - fits 5 adults comfortably, to say nothing of hauling $3,000 in fundraiser candy! Very sporty handling, with "sexy" 6 speed manual transmission (teenage boys are deeply impressed by it). Its been an absolute kick to zip around in, and is a real head turner. My 16 year old son made me test drive it, and thats all it took.

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  Multi use car - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By STAN THE MAN - December 25 - 8:26 pm

  The car is standard shift with six forward and one reverse with low profile tires and a factory modified engine that goes to 180 horse and 8,000 rpm. It gets between 30 to 35 mpg. It is part sport car, part economy car, part SUV and is always reliable. It is a fun car to drive. Toyota did not put many of these cars on the market. There are many SRVs with AWD but this is not one. Instead it has a sports car six forward gear standard transmission.

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  So far so good - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By djc - December 24 - 10:00 am

  I am very impressed with the power of the 4 cyl in the XR model w/auto transmission. Interior is designed well. The only complaint I have with the car is the fuel economy 21 mpg city. Im hoping it gets better after it breaks in.

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  My space pod- COSMO - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Iris - December 24 - 10:00 am

  Love my little space pod - cosmo. I love the head room in the front of the car and dual hatchback lift. My cosmo provides a very pleasant, smooth, and comfortable drive.

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  Great car at a fantastic price - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By Dale - December 22 - 12:46 pm

  We were amazed at how much space there actually is in the Matrix. We used to camp with a pop-up trailer and our Nissan Quest. Since the Matrix isnt really a vehicle for towing weve downsized to camping with a tent. Well, going from a trailer with the room inside the van for packing was something we were worried about. But the Matrix actually has a LOT of room inside. We managed a couple trips so far and its been great! We took it on a trip from NY to KY to WV and back to NY and it performed very well in the mountains and on the highways. We definitely feel we have gotten a good buy for a great price on a fantastic car!

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  Best XUV I could find - 2007 Toyota Matrix
  By PonyBoy - December 18 - 10:26 am

  If youre looking for a combination of cargo room, gas mileage, styling and performance this is the logical choice. More sporty looking than the Vibe in my opinion. If you want to look good while saving at the pump its this or a mini-cooper. You can probably fit the mini-cooper in the back of your Matrix if you fold down your back seats, but all I need to fit inside is two bicycles, so no problem. If youre like most people and dont really need an SUV, this is the smart mpg alternative. The manual trans is more fun to drive, but I can eat better in traffic with the automatic. This is not a sports car, so dont expect pony car power, its fine especially compared with other 4 bangers.