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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In the Matrix - 2006 Toyota Matrix
By 86Ciara - June 25 - 10:26 amI love this car. For a 4 cylinder this car is smashing!! For some reason this car just likes to go fast. Got a speeding ticket doing 97 mph :0 & no the paint did not peel off while I was re-entering the atmosphere. Steep upgrades not a problem just flip the OverDrive button and youre climbing!! I keep up with regular oil changes & maintenance to keep my baby running smooth.
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old blue - 2005 Toyota Matrix
By hamilton - June 25 - 10:00 amthis car is fun to drive,great MPG. its kinda slugish on the pick up but i wanted a car thats gonna last for at least 10 yrs. i just bought it the other day but i owned a toyota celica 91 and i put well over 100K on that car & never a problem and i have faith in this one too.
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Long 4200 Mile Trip - 2006 Toyota Matrix
By Dan - June 21 - 2:16 amDrove from AZ thru CO, KS to MO and then back thru AR, OK, and NM. Camped out in it a total of 6 nights. A blowup mattress will fit in back with the seats down and forward. Performed well in the CO mountains for the size of the engine. Able to maintain 65-70 mph on the 6-7% grades. Averaged 32- 33 mpg depending on the speed. Great for an AWD! Used the AC outlet to blowup the mattress, use my laptop, and charge our camera batteries. A definite plus! The seats were fairly comfortable for the long-hauls. An adjustable lumbar support would be nice. Has been reliable so far. The sunroof cover squeaked for awhile but the dealership fixed it. No really major complaints.
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Mixed emotions - 2006 Toyota Matrix
By Alex - June 10 - 9:23 amI really like Toyota. Their fuel economy is superb. I guess I just expected a little more from the Matrix. 126HP is just not enough to really pull a 2,700 pound car. Maybe if they made it 400-500 pounds lighter, it would have better gas mileage and be a bit faster (Civic gets 40mpg HWY and has more power). Its very spacious, and comfortable for passangers, but the drivers seat stands too tall. It shifts beautifully, and the interior design is very sporty, but the chrome trimming has to go. Handling is like any econobox; average, comfortable, sometimes smooth or bumpy, but that can always be changed with aftermarket products.
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Good car from Toyota - 2004 Toyota Matrix
By turkf26 - June 6 - 1:03 amAll in all the Toyota matrix is a great car to drive. Couple things I dislike is the lack of power in the XR and base models. Also it seems that everything inside the car squeaks or rattles when you drive. Other than that, its a great car made by another great company.
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Just a Nice Little Car - 2007 Toyota Matrix
By car crazy - May 29 - 7:13 amI have loved driving my Matrix on trips and around town. The gas mileage is OK. This is my fifth toyota and I find myself constantly comparing, which I should not do. I find that there is a lot of room especially when the rear seats are down. A mat would have been nice to cover the whole cargo area. I have read many revues on the car but have not yet seen my pet peave yet, which is a roof rack. It is so very expensive to fit this car with a roof rack. I cannot believe its not an option. But I guess, given the overall performance, gas mileage and especially the handling, it still comes in as a number one car for me.
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The Crazy Car - 2003 Toyota Matrix
By Justin Shaw - May 29 - 2:00 amThis car is a very good and reliable car. Only problem is that is is so low to the ground, which scapes up the bottom bumbers.
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05 Matrix - 2005 Toyota Matrix
By Jay Yabo - May 28 - 8:46 pmComfortable seating, the seats are high so legs arent streched out. Handles very well, esp in inclement weather. Great visibility all around. Gets on the average 27 mpg. Range 325 miles. Smooth ride.
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Excellent Car and did my research - 2008 Toyota Matrix
By luvmymatrix - May 26 - 2:53 pmI did about 25 hours of research, narrowing down to the Honda Fit or the Toyota Matrix. The Fit was nice when I test drove it, but then I tried the Matrix, I loved it. Decided on Matrix becuase there is more room altogether, the trunk,t he car and especially the engine. NO REGRETS whatsoever. I love driving it.
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Yayeyayeeee, Matrix - 2004 Toyota Matrix
By Katrina Soulyse - May 24 - 10:00 amThis car is so fun to drive. The engine makes noise, which is good for me, I am young though. I havent had any problems yet.
