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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  Cheap Parts, No Service - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Gerald Peal - June 18 - 2:00 am

  Ive put over 20K miles on this car, driving it over 100 miles daily. It zips through traffic and handles satisfactory. I am disappointed in Toyota build quality and the service you get from a dealership. CD player went out almost immediately. Brakes wore out (and we dont ride them) too early. The cheap tires are unreal! Impressed with safety tests. Would recommend this car to young set.

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  I Love My Matrix - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By Heather - June 15 - 9:53 am

  I bought my Matrix Certified Used from my local Toyota dealer almost a year ago and I am loving my Matrix! The cargo room is awesome (we like to fold down the back seats and sleep in there on camping trips) I have been so thankful to have the cargo room because I have needed it many times! The gas mileage is AMAZING! It has plenty of pep but as other reviewers mention a little more power would be nice at times. I think the new 2009 model is cool looking but after taking a look at the dealer I think I like my 2006 better, the new one seems like they got cheap with the materials a bit. The nice shiny gauge and stereo display are now a faux silver plastic, and overall it does not seem as solid

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  Good Toyota - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Michael vanHaagen - June 13 - 10:00 am

  I bought the base model with no frills. I needed a good reliable car that was good on gas and had lots of interior room The Matrix fit the bill.I love the way the seats fold down to make it into a mini station wagon.I feel that for the money you get a good car with lots of good standard features.

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  I LOVE THIS CAR - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Michelle - June 9 - 4:50 pm

  After a serious accident my Toyota Camry, I decided that I had to go with another Toyota. My decision was the best decision I ever made. I love this car. It is stylish yet reliable. It is sporty yet versatile. I am extremely happy. Good Job Toyota with the Matrix.

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  Great "Vehicle". cant call it a car - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By WVcop - May 30 - 10:00 am

  Bought this car for the wife as a "work" car because she liked the looks and it got great gas milage. i drive a police car all day and have an 86 trans am that i enjoy on the weekends. The Matrix XR that we got is just as fun to drive as either one of them. I highly recomend the Matrix.

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  2006 Matrix XR Manual-Front Wheel Drive - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By acf - May 29 - 2:30 pm

  Bought new to replace a 1992 Tercel and accommodating a rear facing car seat. Bought the 5-speed because the automatic seemed sluggish. Back area is great for a dog. The performance of the front wheel drive (even with snow tires) is not stellar. I now live at the top of a hill in upstate NY and wish I bought the AWD. Great commuter car which gets > 30mpg on the highway. Comfortable enough for long trips. I would buy another (albeit in AWD).

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  Fantastic Little Car - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Marcuss - May 26 - 2:00 am

  I have never been so happy with a car. Ive owned Accords, Maximas, Pontiacs, and more, but this is my favorite car yet. It corners like a hatchback, it performs in the snow like an SUV, its fun to drive with the top open in the summer, and the rear space has allowed me to move TVs, coffee tables, and more that would never fit in my Honda or Maxima.

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  Matrix XRS - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Tanamoor - May 26 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car because it was so much fun to drive and had a lot of acceleration. But at 11,000 miles, the transmission had to be replaced. Ever since then, there is not as much acceleration and you have to fight with the gears (sometimes cannot get it to go into the gear). I am very disappointed. This is not the car I bought. I have been to the service department and they say there is nothing wrong with it. I would not have bought this car as it drives now.

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  Nice little versatile car - 2008 Toyota Matrix
  By mtmatrix - May 16 - 8:40 am

  Ive had my Matrix for just over a year now. Its a great little drive. Combined mileage is 28 mpg for my automatic. I get plenty of power for highway acceleration. I coach soccer and the hatchback lets me haul all my gear, including 5 foot corner flags. The fact that you can fold down just part of the back seat is very convenient. My only issue is the drivers seat back support. Im used to a minivan with big soft comfortable seats.

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  very impressive - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By bill newlun - May 15 - 10:00 am

  this car was very cool and a delight to test drive i enjoyed it very much handle great ,a lot of comfort for a small car every body must test drive this car the price is right on the money ,this is what i call a trip car for the gas mileage