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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  Best big lil-car - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Neo - July 31 - 3:56 am

  I used to drive an Xterra-BEAST. Hated it. Bought the Matrix bacause it looked cool and had some interior room. Some room indeed. I can put more junk in my Matrix than I ever hoped to stuff in the Xterra. Granted I cant climb mountains in the Matrix, but I didnt climb mountains in the Xterra. ...And I can drive past lost of gas stations with the Matrix...

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  Fabulous car - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By yankeeddl - July 31 - 2:00 am

  This car is just a joy to drive. Its a mix of suv, car and station wagon. Very distinctive styling.

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  Owned for over one year - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By gthumb - July 20 - 9:53 am

  This car drives very easily, however the fit and finish is horrible, rattles since day one, tire issue within 1st 3 mos. Toyota service awful, seems very cheap, not worth the price, poor paint quality, paint is chipping off the hood, design looks nice, but the front end needs a redesign to prevent the damage done to it from simple everyday driving.

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  Great Car! - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By onehipteacher - July 8 - 9:03 pm

  I bought my matrix in August of 2003 when they were putting out the new 2004 models. I have loved my matrix since. It is great on gas and the look. When I first bought it, strangers on the street would look at the car and give me a thumbs up. I love the versatility of the seats. I have fit grown palm trees, a patio set, pool table, and other large items in my matrix with all the doors closed. You cant beat the quality of a Toyota. It has been almost 5 years with my car and no problems. I am thinking about trading it in for a bigger vehicle , but I dont think I cant. I love this car!

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  MY MATRIX ON THE RUN - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By chess - July 6 - 10:56 am

  The Matrix 4wheel drive handles the road well in all types of weather. I take it everywere, ive put 11,000 miles on it in only 6 months. Long drives are mostly pain free and theres plenty of room for 4 adults and luggage. I get 30 miles to the gallon on an average. Its a fun car to drive.

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  Big guy Big inside - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By swampmoose - July 6 - 2:00 am

  It has lots of interior space, Im 66" 275lbs. My family fits inside this little car. My friends like the way it looks, They said they wanted the windows tinted. It has just enough power to get you where you need, plus good gas mph.

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  Nice Driving - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By medigasarleen - July 6 - 2:00 am

  I found the car easy to drive. The front window was to expansive and easy to view. I felt like I was in a school bus, with the seat high in the car. It make viewing of the road easy. I thought the pick-up could be alot better, but once it hit 40 the car kept up with the other cars on the road. The radio and CD player had good quality. All in all this car is fun to drive.

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  Sweet Car - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By cbcman17 - July 6 - 2:00 am

  Ive owned this car for about 4 months. Because Ill be going off to college soon, I needed a car that was reliable and fun to drive. The Toyota Matrix lives up to and exceeds my requirements of a great vehicle.

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  Simply a great car - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Rossco - July 1 - 10:00 am

  Have put 2000K on the car already and found it to be very confortable to drive. Good suspension and good handling. Gas milage is what first turned me on to the car with 47M/G Price for the `04 (in Can $$s) was only $21,000

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  a ride for thoes who know how to drive!! - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By sonic boom - July 1 - 10:00 am

  I Love it, its slow from the start but once your going it can pass almost anything one the road!! The AC inverter is the best standard feature, with a very roomy interior. Im seriously considering some TRD upgrades to the engine and handling.