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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  Vehicle that fits the bill and need - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By ADjaye - November 24 - 10:00 am

  Very satisfactory driving this vehicle. I am impressed at the performance and functionality overall. Fuel consumption has been great. I am geeting slightly better than advertized. So far it has been a great buy

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  usual toy. excellence - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By meo56k - November 24 - 10:00 am

  My 3rd toy ever., all way superior to Amer./euro equivalents. Why pay $30k more for a beemer,volvo etc. sport wagon? the matrix is a sweet cornering, nice engine response, tough looking pocket rocket. Ive gotten 38 m.pg. (epa 29-36), I can fit 4 6 footers into it( large headroom and legrm). the only negative Ive had with itis the parking brake being too close to console. Otherwise its a solid solid vehicle.

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  matrix - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By y2medina - November 18 - 10:00 am

  Best car i ever brought

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  04 Toyota Matrix XRS 6 speed - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By faifai83 - November 18 - 10:00 am

  Bought the car end of September 03 as an 04. Was about to take the silver one on the lot...however, it had 116 miles on it!! To top it off...after you got the car moving in 1st and pressed the clutch all the way..there was this whining sound!! terrible!! Needless to say, I took home another Silver Matrix XRS a few days later! I really wanted the GPS but wasnt willing to order it and get no discount on a car...hey its a Toyota.. wanted to see the GPS in action before taking one home w/ it.

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  Very Versatile Car - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By Dan - November 17 - 11:50 pm

  Owned our Matrix for 2 months. We have taken it on several Arizona dirt/rocky roads since we like to hike a lot. Very good ground clearance for a car, never bottomed out. Hauled 22 boxes of tile and some roofing material in it. Easy to switch from a four seater car to a two seater hauler. We have a blowup mattress that fits perfectly in the back when you lay the seats down. Just plug it in to the ac outlet up front and you can be camping for the night. The cargo nets are nice to separate some permanent storage stuff in the back (blowup mattress, sleeping bag, quilt, water, etc.) which you need in the desert. It is a very versatile vehicle which fits our many needs perfectly!!!

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  Best Toyota yet - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Dennis - November 12 - 7:00 am

  I purchased this car new. No major problems, only had to replace a battery and the headlamps after 5 years! Comfort is excellent on long trips, have driven 1K miles a day in it on trips. Gas mileage is also excellent. At 63 MPH have obtained better than 36 MPG, did 38.1 MPG once, no complaints here. The AWD is an excellent advantage in extreme rain drenched roads and snow. Never have been able to spin the tires. I am using Michelin Hydroedge tires, the car really handles quite well. Just keep the required maintenance up and this car will last a long time.

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  A Real Head Turner! - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By TBarry - November 12 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my matrix only two days ago and I am totally impressed with it so far! Its comfortable, roomy for cargo and people and also very stylish. I love the interior chrome finish, and the premium stereo in mine is just great. I have noticed that there are rough edges on the plastic on the doors and center console (as it says in the consumer review), but for the price I think its a very well put together car. I love the looks my solar yellow matrix gets, and its hard to miss in a parking lot! Overall a great value. I cant believe how many extras I got with my xr model, and this car can really pick up speed too!

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  Awesome Car - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By S - November 10 - 12:20 am

  Purchased to replace Chevy Blazer. I really love this car. Very fast for what you would expect. I am normally very nervous driving in snow but the Matrix handles extremely well. I have not even fishtailed once this season.I would recommend this to anyone.

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  Vibration Issue - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Burrito - November 8 - 10:00 pm

  The Matrix has been a fun car to drive and I have enjoyed it greatly over the 2006 Corolla I traded in. I dont enjoy the 35 MPG that I did with the Corolla, but I have been averaging about 27. The car has pep as I easily find myself doing 80 in a 45 without noticing. I have been experiencing a vibration on the light console above the gear selector (Map Console?). The vibrations occur only when the sun is low or set, but will start even on a smooth road. I am chalking it up to thermal expansion of the roof when it is in the sun. Has anyone else experienced this? I can not get Toyota to fix because alas, the service department is not open when it is dark out.

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  The Snail - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Ted - November 6 - 2:43 am

  My wife has owned this car for three years now. It averages about 28 mpg and its size is deceiving. Things I like: size, seat height, fuel econmomy. Things I hate: performance - it cant hardly get out of its own way. This is the worst performing car we have ever owned. Seating position in relation to the steering wheel, console and door arm rest. Who designed this? My knee is against the shifter console and my arms are straight out to reach the wheel. The door arm rest is too far back as is the storage console to rest your arm while holding the wheel, if you can reach it. POOR Performing AC unit. This car has too much glass and not enough cooling capacity.