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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  A small car that fits me. - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Blackcloud_92592 - October 6 - 2:00 am

  Being 6’4” tall, my first requirement for any car is whether I fit or not. It is a pleasure not having to recline the front seat so my head doesn’t scrape against the roof. Even with the seat upright I have at least 2” of headroom above me. I find the engine has plenty of get up and go. Sure I (and probably everyone else) would want to have the higher horsepower engine but it just didn’t fit in the budget. I did opt for the wheel and stereo upgrade and haven’t regretted it. I love the way the car looks, feels and drives. I hate white cars so I got the dark blue.

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  Great for my needs - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Michael Miller - October 6 - 2:00 am

  The Matrix, for me, is a wonderful replacement for a 2002 Corolla I had. Long story short, I disliked the Corolla but found the Matrix had a lot of features I always wanted. Gas mileage is decent, only trade-off from the Corolla. With the Matrix I can lie down in the back--great camping car. My bike fits, too. Those complaining about the lack of power, etc., may have expectations too high for a 4 cylinder-- buy a six or eight and pay the difference in gas costs. The four cylinder, which maneuvers just fine at 70-75 mph, is ideal for the many different types of driving I do.

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  Good looks, poor ride - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By lizstx - September 25 - 6:16 pm

  Weve nicknamed our Matrix the "covered wagon" because of how horrendous the ride is. Every bump, pot hole, and dip is magnified many times over by the fact that the "sporty suspension" makes this car feel like it has no shocks whatsoever. Its loud, rough, and we regret the day we bought it. Spare yourself the pain and pass this one by.

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  Does almost everything quite well - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Abraham3 - September 13 - 2:00 am

  I like it, recommend it, would buy another. Matrix is 4-dr, Corolla hatchback . F seating is quite comfortable. Upright position gives good vis cept to rear where windows taper. No difficulty finding comfortable seating position (60" - leggy). R leg & seat room large for car this size. Long trips quite possible. Cargo volume and features excellent - 2 usable nets, tie-down rings and tie-down straps std. R deck hard ribbed plastic. 60/40 R seats fold flush & match deck. Will hold a stack of 8 2x4s with hatch closed. The 1.8L, DOHC Corolla engine is nearly perfect - excellent power curve. Surprising acceleration. Five spd manual is excellent.

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  very fun car - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By smo302 - September 8 - 4:46 am

  I traded in a 2002 Nissan XTerra for this cars so I went from 14 mpg to 32 mpg. I love it. I drive 250 mi a week to work so I need great mpg, but to get a fun car that definitely can move out of its own way is great. Thinking about purchasing the supercharger from TRD. This will give it the same power as the XRS model for about the same price. Otherwise I am very pleased at the power above 4000 rpm for a little 4-cylinder engine. We shall see what winter brings without a 4 wheel drive anymore it will be interesting.

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  Good car - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By counselme - August 30 - 10:00 am

  Good car. Had to trade in a new Mustang for a family car. Looks sporty and has plenty of room all around. Miss the horsepower, but it is reliable and safe. Great visability and easy to drive.

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  Fun to Drive/Great MPG - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By 5-speedXR - August 18 - 10:00 am

  The Matrix XR 5-Speed is a wonderful car: fun to drive, excellent gas mileage (35 mpg average so far), comfortable, lots of storage.

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  I love my Matrix XR - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Cmarchal - August 13 - 10:00 am

  I have absolutely fallen in love with my Matrix. It is so fun to drive and people are constantly stopping me to ask me questions about it. The gas mileage is wonderful and the insides are very sporty. The Matrix is a very fun and affordable car, where I can still haul things and dont have to compromise on the gas mileage.

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  6 months and loving it - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By mike colvin - August 10 - 5:23 pm

  Economical, comfortable, and easy to get in and out for a smaller vehicle. For around town and highway driving the power is sufficient. I am happy with that since more power will sacrifice economy. The fold down seating allows for more hauling capability. It has roomy and comfortable back seating.Also the sound system is good. One thing I dont like is the clutch pedal has to be pushed all the way to the floor to start the vehicle.

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  Seat issues - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By john riley - August 6 - 10:00 am

  The car is ok, except the drivers seat is really uncomfortable for me. Too much side bolster and not enough lumbar. I realize one seat does not fit all, but there is no option from Toyota to do anything about the problem, like getting an optional seat.