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:

• 

  xrs does it all - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By hotrod - April 17 - 2:00 am

  this car has it all style perfomance! fun to drive! it may not be as fast as wrx but it will out slalom it out brake and for sure looks so much better! i feel i made a great buy with my XRS

• 

  Best car ever! - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By iwphill - April 17 - 2:00 am

  This is by far the best car made for the price. I was looking for an all around vehicle, with some hauling capability and good gas mileage. But I didnt want an SUV and I also didnt want to spend a fortune. Its extremely reliable - so far ;-) - and is a blast to drive. I have the base model w/auto and though Ive heard others complain about the lack of power, I never have any problems passing when needed. A fantastic car, thats for sure!

• 

  Made a great choice. - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By ADD - April 12 - 1:53 am

  I traded in my Jeep Liberty for the Matrix over the summer due to rising gas prices. I didnt want to lose the cargo space I had with the Jeep. I made a great choice. Ive been able to haul quite a bit with my Matrix. It has been the perfect substitute for an SUV without the high cost of gas. Im surprised more SUV owners arent switching to these as an alternative. I can see myself keeping this car for a long time. Its easy to drive and Ive saved quite a bit of money on gas.

• 

  Awesome Ride - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Toni3 - April 6 - 10:00 am

  Great Car. Love the speed, maybe a little sluggish off the line but very fast in the long run. Love the interior, very stylish and nice cluster board. Exterior is awesome. Dont need to do much on the car.

• 

  Best Car on the Road - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By MatrixLover - April 1 - 10:00 am

  I bought my car last Nov. and still love it just as much as the day I bought it. I have always been a Toyota person, but this is the best! It is perfect for someone like me who needs the cargo space of an SUV (for a large dog) and the fuel economy of a car. With the great turning radius and small size it is just the thing for running around town.

• 

  Awesome car! - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By cnslor - April 1 - 10:00 am

  An incredible car! The gas mileage is wonderful as well as comfort.

• 

  So what is it? - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Jeffvandelay - April 1 - 10:00 am

  Some people just dont get it. Is it a car? An SUV? or a stationwagon? Well, its all three. The comfort and gas milage of a car, the stature of an SUV, and the room of a stationwagon. For the price, almost $5000 less than Pontiac Vibe, (which does offer more HP, but the Grand Am front end and the plastic exterior makes it uglier than sin) its well worth it for anyone who doesnt want to poke a hole into the ozone with an SUV, or become a bore with a sedan. Toyota wants you to believe that your "stationwagon" is a hip sports vehicle and for the most part its true. Youll love it and those around you cant stop wondering "What IS the Matrix?"

• 

  2003 Matrix XR FWD Auto - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By vtec2 - April 1 - 10:00 am

  I was very impressed with this econo cars ride quality and interior quiet. The build quality is typical Toyota, but there are a few rattles from the hatch area.

• 

  weve got the funk - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Cletus Van Damme - April 1 - 10:00 am

  This is only the third car Ive owned, but I enjoy almost every aspect, and it is in a totally different class than my Honda Civic. I have no problems with my CD player or the dashboard. Parking can be a bit difficult, given the tall front end, but I just have to get used to it, I guess. The car has more than enough power for me (where is everybody going in such a hurry, home to watch Oprah?), and after tracking mileage after every fill-up for 8 months, I can assure you the lowest youll get is 28 miles per gallon (on surface streets).

• 

  Great Buy...Most reliable car! - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By mn1vikfan - March 27 - 6:50 am

  The 2006 Toyota Matrix XR has been the best purchase I have ever made. I enjoy climbing into my Matrix and driving the busy streets of Chicago. I find its acceleration to be very impressive for a wagon its size. The shifting is very smooth. Most of all, I think I like the sharp, crisp handling of the 2006 Matrix XR. This car just has such attitude when driving a aggressive road. It seems to laugh at the competition. Overall, I give the Toyota Matrix XR a grade of A++! Great job Toyota, and keep up the good work with these new sharp looking models you are introducing. P.S.- Let me know if you need help test driving any models...I love these rides!