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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  Love My Matrix XRS - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By J. Palmer - May 8 - 12:03 am

  I bought this car with 19,000 miles on it. At the time, I was unaware of the particulars of the XRS trim level. I liked the idea of a manual... bonus was that it is a 6-speed. It is the best of both worlds because I can haul the kids around, then my band equipment, then on the weekends unload it and cruise around town with a little power under me. Even with the extra power my, mostly highway, fuel economy is around 30 mpg. Have almost 50,000 miles and not even a hint of trouble. One of the best, most fun to drive cars that I have ever owned.

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  Generally a nice car - 2010 Toyota Matrix
  By Raj - May 3 - 9:40 pm

  A pretty nice little car. Mileage ~31 mpg on the hwy, dropping to 24 when used for short commutes in the winter. Surprisingly roomy front and back - best feature is upright seating. Compared to our 03 civic, this has a smoother ride, poorer fuel economy, more comfortable seats, cludgier HVAC controls, more rattles, but does far far better in snow and ice. Visibility out is OK for me (5-11) and marginal for my wife (5-5): large A pillars and drivers side-view mirror are the main problems for her. Engine a little buzzy above 3000 rpm but fine at cruise and gentle driving. Stereo OK but a bit boomy.

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  Great little SUV - 2010 Toyota Matrix
  By MACKY - April 28 - 10:26 am

  Ive been driving a Infiniti QX4 for the last 8 yrs or so and has been a good SUV. Due to the outrages gas prices here in Canada Im forced to scale back. I got the 2010 Matrix with the 1.8 liter and sport package and went for the optional hood defector and side moldings for those pesky door dents I hate. Gas mileage is awesome the first tank I put threw it I got 37 mpg or 7 liters per 100 km, blows the stats right out of the water. I suspect it to only get better as things loosen up more, and Im able to use synthetic oil after the break in. Everything has been so far so good, but I havent had it that long yet.

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  Disappointed - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By matrixok - April 18 - 5:16 pm

  Paint chips all over. Will have to have it repainted. Blind spot in the back. Gas mileage is good. Had tire blow out and had to replace 2 tires and rims. This was due to something the dealer did but as another review said the dealers do not own up to anything. On 3rd radio. Transmission seems to be slipping. Interior is hard to keep clean

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  Highly Recommend the Matrix - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Brian - April 17 - 12:20 am

  We got this as a combination commuter and cargo hauler (for small jobs for catering & food business, deliveries). We use it in place of the van when appropriate. The back seats fold down COMPLETELY flat, allowing for secure storage w/o spilling sauces, etc. There is an incredible amount of interior space, especially given its relatively small exterior size. The car (base model 1.8L) has plenty of power. No need to get the larger engine unless you like to really zip around. We get around 28 mpg (city/hwy. combined), much better than 14 mpg for the van.

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  Excellent All Around Car - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By MundschauJ - April 10 - 2:00 am

  Ive had the car more than 1 year. Mileage averages around 35mpg on combined city and highway. The build quality is excellent as expected. One complaint however. The AC stopped working for about 2 hours one day while on a long drive with customers in the car. After parking for about 3 hours the AC worked fine and never stopped again. Other than that, extremely versatile and the best car Ive ever owned. Ive had cars that were more fun to drive, like a VR6 VW, and a Jeep Wrangler, but neither beats the overall usefullness and dependability of this Matrix.

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  Great Matrix - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Toyota Matrix XRS - April 8 - 2:33 pm

  I think it has great get up and go. The handling is very nice. The design inside and out is also great. It looks and feels very sporty. Perfect for a modern mom and cool enough for my husband to commute to work in. It handles hills & mountainous roads very well (and very fun). I have a baby and a toddler and the car seats fit fine (even with my husband in the front seat... hes 65".) Our full size stroller fits great in the back cargo area with room to spare... NO COMPLAINTS!

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  Incredible Toyota does it again - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By skrotofil - April 7 - 6:10 pm

  Its an optical illusion from the outside-it appears that the seating would be "low" --instead The seats are spring/cushy and sit high.(Before I had a Subaru Outback, the seats sit just as high.) Wonderful ride, handling and Fun to drive. The best part MPG. My first ank of gas was a combinaton of Houston traffic and highway miles 30.8 with my AUTOMATIC

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  Unreliable, poor quality - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By jamesimcb - March 29 - 5:03 pm

  I raved about this car when i first got it. But after a transmission failure at 130,000 kms I am very disappointed. Fuel economy has gone down ever since. many rattles in the car. failed caliper. toyota cost over 800 dollars. The premium you pay for a toyota is no longer worth it. Buy north american and save some money as Toyotas quality has gone down hill!

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  Very good 4WD wagon - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Jesse - March 28 - 2:00 am

  Ive had this car for a month now and put 2,000 miles on it. I live above the snow line in the Sierra mountains of California. This is the perfect car for my situation. It has good acceleration, handling and comfort for me and my 2 kids. It does great in snow covered roads without cables and feels secure. I drive to the SF bay area once a week to work and the car does wonderful on the highway averaging 29-34. It also cruises real nice at 80 mph and can easily cruise at higher speeds.