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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  I love my Matrix! - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By WeatheringC - July 31 - 11:06 am

  I had a little Honda before I bought my Matrix. When it came time to purchase a new car I had a tall list of things I wanted. I wanted to get my skis in the back, the ability load it up and haul things, and great gas mileage was essential since I was making an 800 mile round trip at least once a month. The Matrix was the only car to satisfy all those needs. I looked for a month before I found a hard to find used Matrix in my area! As soon as I test drove it I knew it was the car to get. The enginering of the interior is exceptional and makes it very versatile. I show it off to everyone. Its enginered well and the styling is classic. I love my Matrix!

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  Silver beautiful - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By TONY23 - July 30 - 7:16 pm

  The Matrix is an owners delight to own. It handles great, fuel mileage is wonderful, my wife just wont let me have it. Guess I gotta get another one lol. Great job Toyota. Highly recommend this car for anyone on the car market looking for room and fun.

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  Excellent value. - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By jetdoc1 - July 29 - 10:00 am

  Overall the car is a good value. Great fuel economy. Handles well, accelerates fine, even with A/T. Lots of room for rear passengers, even deceptively so, at least my kids say so. They are teenagers. Like the fold down seats for cargo. Stereo acceptable, but cds seem to skip, maybe my cds? Can start car without headlights coming on by first engaging emergency brake, then start car. Good for night starting at certain places.

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  Surprising new generation of Matrix - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By 4kbeast - July 24 - 12:53 pm

  All wheel drive really helped me out; we got a couple of inches after I got it and the AWD in combination with the vehicle stability control and traction control gave me a lot of confidence. Plus, you get like 6 airbags. Im a big fan of the new look of the vehicle. I overlooked the previous generation, but after seeing a rally built version at the SEMA show, I was a big fan of the hatch. Ive always loved hatchbacks! I couldnt decide between the AWD S or the FWD XRS; both have the multi- link rear, which gives it a much sportier feel. I decided on the AWD auto over a XRS auto or manual because I drive in traffic and need AWD for winter. Both have the Camry 2.4L 4 cylinder.

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  Practical Alternative - 2007 Toyota Matrix
  By planettom - July 19 - 1:26 pm

  My third day in this car, and I love it! This car truly is a very practical alternative to the SUV. Its fun to drive, and styling is good. Very roomy interior and plenty of room for cargo. I drove a mid-size SUV for years, but honestly, I dont have kids and Im not hauling lumber, so why waste the money on an SUV. Im very happy with my Matrix.

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  I love it! - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Reynolds853 - July 11 - 2:00 am

  I havent given this car a second thought since buying it, which is EXACTLY what I wanted. Its easy to drive, gets good mileage, u-turns on city streets are no problem, and with the rear seats folded down it can hold my bicycle without taking the wheels off. Fold down the front seat, and you can fit all that stuff you bought at Home Depot. I also like the driving position - you sit up higher than in other compact wagons. The seats are tall, like in a minivan, which gives you much better visability in traffic. Visability out the back is compromised by the narrow windows back there, but once youre used to it, its not a problem.

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  Bye Bye Jeep! - 2007 Toyota Matrix
  By Bye Bye Jeep - July 10 - 2:30 pm

  I have only owned my Matrix a week, but it is fantastic! I traded a Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo. I thought I would miss the 4X4 and size. No way! This Matrix has already pulled itself through the snow, is a joy to drive, reliable, and the gas savings is amazing! I also got everything that I had in the Jeep into the Matrix. Yes, it is smaller and the steering wheel is a bit closer to the dashboard than I am used to, but it is worth getting used to it over time. Definitely check this car out! You wont be disappointed!

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  matrix - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By jay w - July 1 - 4:03 am

  good on gas roomy as a 4-runner.

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  2009 matrix 4d hacthback - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By abstract007 - June 30 - 5:23 am

  I replaced a vw beetle with the 2009 matrix its good not to be in the every month. So far so good its lacking pickup the automatic transmission could use improvement in order to get power I have to be hard on the kickdown but it will reach 110mph on a good day with a tail wind. Toyota need to improve the transmission, noise level fr;under carriage, front suspension easily get out of alignment,fuel 31mpg average I commute it meet the daily needs

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  Practical fun - 2007 Toyota Matrix
  By pohaku - June 27 - 11:06 am

  So many practical reasons to own this car: excellent gas mileage, lots of cargo room, Toyota reliability, flat-folding seats. But what sold me on it was that its just a fun car to drive. The handling is enjoyable, the engine is more willing than its 126 hp would imply, the interior is cockpit-ish, the 6-cd sound system is decent, the seats are comfy with cool fabric, and the ride is nicer than the competitions. Its a nice mix of good stuff for the money. I was considering a Civic, but the Matrix had more cargo space, a nicer ride, a nicer interior, and was way more fun to drive. The auto I test drove was good, but I recommend a manual trans with any small engine.