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:

• 

  Whats not to like? - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By SoccerMom - December 30 - 2:00 am

  I havent had this much fun driving a car since my old VW van (just an old hippie at heart). I have the 5-speed manual and really like the placement of the stick. It has been fun teaching my 15-year old how to drive a stick - so far the Matrix is taking the abuse and my kid is starting to understand how much fun a car can be to drive. Thanks Toyota for such a fun yet versatile car!

• 

  I just purchased - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By Sue - December 15 - 12:46 pm

  I traded my Explorer for better fuel economy, I did love my truck. But 37 miles to work and back. I did research on several cars for a few months. I like the cargo area, I am always packing things around and there is plenty of room. My husband is over 60 and has plenty of head room. Driving is fun, and solid. I feel pretty safe with the airbags ect. So far so good!

• 

  2004 MATRIX XR FWD AUTO VVT-I - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By SANDRAJ - December 2 - 10:00 am

  VERY ROOMY FOR A COMPACT CAR, VERY SMOOTH RIDING FOR A COMPACT CAR, PLENTY OF STORAGE PLACES FOR A CAR THIS SIZE. VERY WELL STYLED FOR A CAR AT THIS PRICE. PRICED GREAT COMPARED TO OTHER CARS IN THIS PRICE RANGE. VERY POOR PAINT QUALITY AGAINST OTHER MAKES!

• 

  Great Car; Cheating Salesman - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Ms. Kitty - December 2 - 10:00 am

  I love my Matrix! This was my first car purchase, and unfortunatley I dealt with a "cheating, deceiving and lying" salesman. What I thought I was purchasing was a 6-cyclinder Matrix with all wheel drive. Instead, what I found I had purchased was the basic Matrix XR at the Matrix XRS with added features price! What a rat!

• 

  The Matrix... - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Charles R. - December 1 - 2:00 am

  Great versatile car. This is the perfect marriage between a midsize sedan and a small SUV. Perfect for hauling people and things (expandable cargo space). The gas mileage is excellent and car is very roomy/comfortable (lots of headroom). I also love the driving position - you sit higher than in a sedan. Excellent value for the price paid.

• 

  Have to love it! - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Mighty Mouse - November 25 - 10:00 am

  My girlfriend and my self were looking for a new vehicle that would fit in our college budgets. We love to travel and snowboard so it needed to have lots of room. We initially looked at small trucks, but when my girlfriend saw this car in the showroom, she looked as if she had found her second love! She always wanted the VW Golf, but it was just too small for our needs. The Matrix provided the size and looks we wanted. We ended up going with the standard version because the XR and XRS were just too low to the ground for any gravel roads. I wouldnt really call it sporty, but it is fun to drive.

• 

  my baby - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By yankeezbaby24 - November 21 - 10:00 am

  i luv this car..its my very first car and its awesome.....i loved toyota ever since my dad had his toyota...

• 

  A Fun Car to Drive, Easy to own. - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Kyla Ensor - November 17 - 2:00 am

  I have had a very good experiance overall with this vehicle. The service has been easy and Toyota has been very helpful....now as for the car itself. This car makes the drive to work fun. You can haul just about anything in it because all the seats fold down and there is a huge cargo space in the back.....its surprising how much space there is. Perfect car for a chic in her 20s....space to haul, space for friends, awesome sound system just enough power to put some guys in their place. :^) Im 21 and I can afford this car, it looks good for work, works great for play. I think the value of this car vs. the price comes out to equal a great buy!!

• 

  Love It!!!!! - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By Pastormartx - November 17 - 1:33 am

  This is a very gun car to drive and I love the gas mileage I am getting. I average over 35 mpg on the hwy. and 30 mpg city - even better than expected. This car will be with me for a very long time so I chose a car I would love for a very long time. So far, it is definitely the right decision. I think several people will be getting a Matrix because of me!!

• 

  Great car - 2007 Toyota Matrix
  By annie76 - November 16 - 8:51 pm

  I bought certified preowned 2007 matrix in 2010. It runs great. I have had no major issues and have not spent more than $800 on maintenance in last 4 years. It has a great pickup and is a reliable car. I get 24-25 mpg (city) which I think should be higher but the car is designed for 25 mpg in city driving and it is still providing the same mpg gas consumption.