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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  Roomy and sporty! - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By nwpassages - May 15 - 9:23 am

  I had a Nissan Pathfinder for 16 years and I was terrified of buying a new car when I had such success in the past. This is the perfect car for someone who needs cargo space, AWD and decent gas mileage. I have been absolutely pleased with it from driving around town to long road trips.

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  Trucker for life converted - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By smeg - May 12 - 11:10 pm

  I was looking to downsize from my Tacoma since gas is so expensive and I went to look at Scions when the sport Matrix jumped out at me at the dealership. I never wanted to drive anything but a truck but this little car is really growing on me. The city gas mpg is so so but its a huge improvement from what I had, also Ive already been camping in it and not only did it fit all mine and my GFs gear, we still had plenty of room for my 70lb lab to be comfortable and we got 30 mpg most of the trip. I like the re-design of the 09s over the older models, especially the aggressive front end. This certainly isnt my dream vehicle but I defiantly dont regret the purchase.

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  i hate hub caps - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By dangading - May 11 - 6:50 pm

  Ive had my Matrix going on 4 years now and although its been really great, I have recently run into a couple of problems. For 1, it hasnt had hub caps for years! They fall off too easily. After reading this, Im sure youll see plenty of non xr models with no hubs. Also, the accelerators are cableless and if something goes wrong with it, you have to replace the whole system ($1000 for the part). Why not use cables? At least you can afford to fix it when it fails! Seems like planned obselescence to me.

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  Great car but needs bigger engine - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Artski - May 7 - 3:50 am

  Its best on the highway. Handles great. Super gas mileage. it made LA to Vegas with less than 9 gals doing 85 to 95. It carries tons of stuff with the back seats down. I chose the xr instead of the XRS because the extra 50 hp comes on after 6000 rpm and most of my driving is under that. The XRS engine is is great if you want to race or been drinking. I do nether. Ive had an Integra GSR and that car had a very similar power band. If they put the lexus Is300 engine and transmission, it would be really hot.

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  Xr Matrix - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By John Hasler - May 7 - 2:00 am

  The Toyota Matrix performance wise lacks low end torque and noisy at highway speeds. Trd Super Charger should take care of the torque problem. Toyota has always been known to have high reving engines. Handling is snow/wet conditions is very good just remember u have O/D (OVER DRIVE)......

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  Great car for the money - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By shar - April 26 - 6:40 pm

  I love this car. It drives so well. I had a small SUV, and it was difficult to drive. So all the storage capabilities of the SUV are in this Matrix, and yet it drives like a car and the gas mileage is like a car. All that see it are very impressed with the style. Its also a fun car to drive.

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  To drive it is to love it. - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By ex-jetta gal - April 25 - 10:00 am

  When I first saw commericals for the Matrix, I thought, "God, what an ugly car." Then I got inside one. Wow. The seats are so cushy, the dash is so fun and so bright, and the car feels so spacious. Even my tall friends seem to have plenty of room. Also, the car is loaded with little storage cubbies and power outlets. The clutch is very easy to ride, and the overall ride of the car is very smooth. Lots of compliments... this car has a little something to appeal to everyone. Plenty of space to tote around all my junk. Great price and gas mileage to boot.

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  MY BEST CAR - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By NEWBABE - April 25 - 10:00 am

  EXELENT CAR AND ECONOMIC IS FUN DRIVE THIS CAR

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  Fun and sporty - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By bhattara - April 23 - 9:40 pm

  I really like this car. I did a good bit of research. I was told to get a more expensive car but there was something about a matrix. First of all it looks great very stylish. Wonderful turning radius. I really like the fact that you are higher than those sedans. It has a great radio even the basic model. I like the chrome. The fact is this is really a mini SUV. For people who want a little more space but are environmentally conscious this is for them. Some people call this a student car. I call it a car with a lot of value.

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  Excellent Choice! - 2007 Toyota Matrix
  By MRE - April 22 - 7:50 pm

  We bought the XR model with full options almost 3 years ago. We wanted ABS & side airbags, which is not sold in LA area, so we special ordered & waited 3 months - SOOO worth it! Im short and love that I can easily see the road without being squished against the steering wheel. My husband is 6+ and he fits comfortably too. Back seats are very comfortable for adults, our passengers comment all the time. Great gas mileage. Best feature is cargo options, hands down. The power/acceleration could be better - but Im not a race car driver, and this car is more than adequate. Our color is "phantom gray", which we LOVE. This will be our family car for many years to come.