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 Lover - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By John Riley - October 7 - 2:00 am

  25000 miles. People still look at it and love it or hate it. We have carried wood, furniture, and love the flexibilty and still it is a small car,suv, truck etc.

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  the best car Ive ever owned - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By rebecca perkins - October 1 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car in April of 2003. In November of the same year I was in a head on collision with my 10 year old daughter and my 5 month old daughter in the car. The car was totalled, but all three of us came out just fine. It held up beautifully on the inside, enabling us to walk away. I am now looking to buy another car and guess what Im getting: a 2004 Matrix. I loved it that much! It was fun to drive and had plenty of room in the back for all of our "baby stuff". I highly recommend this car to anyone I talk to.

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  6 speed baby - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By ruben lie - October 1 - 2:00 am

  This car is awesome. I love my xrs, the styling is very nice. It looks different from all the other cars on the road. Very comfortable, love the gauges, looks really nice. Its not too big of a car. No problems yet with the car. runs really nice. overall fun to drive. You can beat most civics on the road.

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  practicality with zip - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Jeff Ritchie - September 26 - 10:10 am

  Its been two years since I purchased my XRS and it still runs like the day I bought it, and seems to perform even better (though thats probably thanks to new Falken performance tires). No mechanical defects, only regular maintenance. Its fun around town and even better on a stretch of road where no ones watching. For me, the benefit of the power switchover at 6000 rpm is great because it keeps me from being too road rage-ish around town, but rocks on back roads and highway passing. Fantastic muffler sound at all revs if youre into that sort of thing. Same avg mpg as my boyfriends 1.8l 01 (125 hp) Corolla providing I dont rev the hell out of it at every stoplight.

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  2005 Matrix - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By KeyFrameGirl - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Its a fun sporty car that has plenty of room. It makes carpooling a joy. It handles corners extremely well and is a bit more zippy than the 2004 model. With the 17 inch rims and tinting its over comes its "soccer mom" association and becomes a slick sporty car!

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  I love My Matrix - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By carri - September 18 - 2:00 am

  I didnt even look at the Matrix when I was searching for a new car, But my Mom said lets just test drive it and see. Well that did it for me, My MATRIX is fun to drive and very stylish looking. It doesnt look like anything else on the road! If you ahve a chance at least test drive one.

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  Took awhile, but now I love mine. - 2008 Toyota Matrix
  By WhoMe? - September 14 - 6:40 pm

  I was a died-in-the-wool Honda guy, driving my second Accord (an 89) into the ground, so I really pictured myself in a Fit. But the black- interior only, no-sunroof, constraints knocked them out. I got busted for DUI the third night I had it, and it cast a real pall over that wonderful "new car" feeling. (Im not a bad guy... its a long story). Anyway - LOVE it now. They finally fixed a minor rumble/rattle from the back that I lived with the first year, and it looks like new and suits me to a T. I bought it specifically for hauling things with the seats down, and its great - the cargo nets help a lot.

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  Great car! - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By swooshman - September 12 - 10:00 am

  Very fun to drive! Real eye opener.

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  A cowboy car - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Bearcat - September 11 - 10:00 pm

  I didnt know what I was getting into buying a used high performance car. The shift/clutch was so difficult I had to go back and get lessons from a mechanic (after 42 years of driving stick). Then I had to get new brakes and new tires (costing twice as much as for a standard Matrix), because the previous owner in Jersey had apparently driven fast and slammed on the brakes a lot. I am concerned that in the not-too-distant future Ill be forced to replace the clutch to the tune of $700. So even though its cute and fun to drive, Im seriously considering turning it in on a "regular" (not sporty) Matrix.

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  Love the Matrix XR automatic - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Kay N Jay - September 7 - 10:00 am

  I love my new Matrix. After waiting several weeks for delivery, I like the car even better than I expected. The engine seems quieter than the test car was. The ride is very smooth, and my Matrix (with 17-inch wheels) handles turns nicely. Overall I am extremely pleased with the car.