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 is a true quality Toyota - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By Dave Swaney - January 31 - 2:26 am

  I have 45K on my Matrix, and I have done nothing but change the oil and repair curb collision damage. Nothing rattles, nothing wheezes. Im going to have to take it in at 50K just out of discipline. What a car.

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  Good, but could be better. - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Matrix04 - January 28 - 12:26 am

  Electric windows rattle, grind and pop. Dealer could not address problem. Eventually a window fell out. Engine surges while stopped at light or in traffic. Dealer could not address problem. The door handles have a "metallic" finish that peels away. Occupants have cut their fingers on the edge of metal/plastic that was coming away. Eventually got worse to where you could see the white plastic handle underneath so I peeled away the remaining sharp edges and caution occupants. Dealer offered to repair at my expense. Contacted the Toyota Customer Service Experience Center and was referred back to a dealer.

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  NEW NEW NEW - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Matrixlove - January 26 - 1:06 am

  LOVE IT. What more can I say? Could use a bit more passing power but I dont want to give up the mpg. We got the automatic but I recommend the stickshift. If I had to do it over I wouldnt get the auto. It sucks too much juice out of the engine at high speeds. Otherwise I wouldnt change a thing.

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  07 matrix - 2007 Toyota Matrix
  By gjens - January 26 - 12:50 am

  Might be a little under powered but a real fun car to drive. Auto, power windows, air, etc. I love hatchbacks, it has an extra wide opening and I can get all kinds of unconventional shape gear inside.

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  2009 Matrix S - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Mike Vukich - January 22 - 5:33 am

  Great car! But Ive always known Toyota made excellent vehicles. This is my 3rd one. Quiet, smooth ride. No maintenance worries. We just had a stretch of sub-zero weather. My matrix started right up; maybe a few extra cranks of the starter. I highly recommend this vehicle.

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  Second Review. Got rid of it. - 2007 Toyota Matrix
  By Thebigv21 - January 21 - 9:50 am

  While the gas mileage was a definite plus, the lack of power in this vehicle and the size of other vehicles when driving the Matrix, made me get rid of it. I didnt have any problems with it mechanically. I guess the 4 cyl ran as it was supposed to. I havent had a 4 cyl for years so maybe it is just me, but the car lacks power and is loud. Low profile made for uneasiness driving in rainy weather. Being in Western PA, I felt that I should get rid of it for when it snows.

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  Best Car Ive Ever Owned - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Me, Myself and I - January 18 - 2:00 am

  Wow! That about sums up my experience with my 2003 Matrix. The _ONLY_ issue Ive had with the car in 14 months and 51,000 miles is a rattle in the dash at about 20k miles. Although it took two trips to the dealer to get it fixed (I got a written appology for not fixing it the first time from the service manager), it hasnt reappeared in over 30k miles. If I were to improve one feature of the car, it would be the winter fuel economy. I get between 36 and 40mpg in the summer and only between 32 and 34mpg in the winter. My next vehicle will be another Toyota.

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  Versatile sporty car 2003 XRS 2wd - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By matthewinaz - January 13 - 12:19 pm

  I purchased used from a friend with 90k miles and now has 160k miles and not one problem with it. There is so much room in this car. When it was 150K miles I did preventative maintance on it myself(saves money). Front struts, radiator hoses, spark plugs, all fluids, serpintine belt and tentioner

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  2004 matrix!best money ever spent! - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By pj - January 8 - 2:34 pm

  owned a 2004 Toyota matrix hatch used,had roughly 60k on it,zero problems!Honestly car saved our(wife,and myself)lives. We were struck during construction while stopped by a semi traveling 73MPH.killed both dogs and father in law,broke 3 ribs of my wife(driver) and gave myself a severe brain injury. But 6+ years later-im divorced,and healing wonderfully!Purchased a hylander hybrid last december.absolutely wonderful vehicle! I swear by toyota!never had any issues with the matrix-good car for good price!What vehicle wouldve made out when stopped when struck by a loaded tractor trailer?none that I know of

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  Love My Red RX - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By kelly - January 1 - 3:16 pm

  Fun and RELIABLE..its a Toyota! I purchased the red model and have many comments on its sporty appeal. The gas mileage is wonderful with todays gas prices. Love the interior... very modern/sleek and FUN!