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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  the toyota matrix - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By trekker - September 24 - 2:00 am

  I love this car. It is fun to drive and it has great performance. At todays gas prices it fuel economy is greatly appreciated. I like the way the seats fold down to allow room to carry all sorts of things.

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  Neo, we found the matrix - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By zume - September 24 - 2:00 am

  Great car, pick-up is four cylider style, a little weak. But I love the car. Doors are a little hard to close, and sunroof sticks a little. but doesnt matter in the long run.

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  Dons Review - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By Zoobiezoo - September 23 - 8:20 am

  The car rides so smooth. the seats are very comfortable, and the interior is very roomy. The exterior stlying is really nice, and the color Cosmic Blue is the greatest. The Dealer is very accommodating, and I feel like Im the only person who has ever bought a car there.

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  The cool BIG little car! - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By Arlene Hudson - September 20 - 1:33 pm

  Toyota Matrix. This is my first small car. I have always owned trucks. This was not a difficult adjustment. I am so happy with my Matrix! Lots of headroom inside. I do not feel the squished feeling some small cars have. I am tall and I am very comfortable behind the wheel. The pick up is great. The ride is smooth. It handles easy. Its great looking! I am getting compliments on the styling all the time! I got caught in a blizzard and my front wheel drive plowed right through. Great little car! See you out there!

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  Disappointed - 2010 Toyota Matrix
  By Cindy - September 17 - 4:16 pm

  This is the first time I bought a new car and was disappointed: 1. Blind spots in front and back. 2. Poor radio. 3. Way too much road noise. 4. Uncomfortable ride (I can feel every little bump in the road). 5. Recall for safety reasons.

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  All the features at half the price! - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By AHTripp - September 16 - 12:26 pm

  I drive over 40k miles per year. One of the best I have every driven, with all the comfort and convenience features of cars that are $30k+. Mileage is a steady 31.5 over all kinds of terrain. Very comfortable, and no problems at 20k miles in five months. More storage room than several larger models, and very comfortable for 4 adults.

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  Loved it Until... The ENGINE FAILED! - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By H M - September 15 - 4:06 pm

  I bought the Matrix new and it was the first one I had seen. I have absolutely LOVED this car...UNTIL THE ENGINE FAILED!! I never had one single mechanical problem, did ALL scheduled maintenance, and it ran perfect up to 94K miles. Then within the space of two days, NO WARNING AT ALL - engine problem. Toyota informs me it has sludge in the engine, and from that day on the engine is awful. Car stalls, slugs along, you name it. Completely unreliable now. TOYOTA claims it is MY FAULT, and completely FAILS to acknowledge a longstanding design problem with the engine. Then tells me I have to pay 8-11K to get A NEW ENGINE. Research Toyota Sludge people!!! Never again Toyota...Sorry.

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  GREAT Car! Fun, Sporty & not too pricey - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By crystalc - September 13 - 10:00 am

  I just bought this car, but I LOVE it already! This car is awesome. I love the way it looks. Its stylish, fun to drive, and pretty affordable. The Matrix offers a lot of interior room despite its "small-car" status. I love that I sit up higher on the road than some other cars. The windshield is very wide, so I can see the road better. The car isnt "small", but its not intimidatingly huge either. Its just perfect for me. Acceleration is nice, and the ride is pretty smooth. The cargo space inside is really roomy and great for those who like to carry cargo/tow a lot of stuff. The seats are actually more comfy than I would have imagined. Overall...GREAT car!

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  Awesome - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Elphaba - September 13 - 10:00 am

  I love this car. I just replaced my 90 Corolla with the Matrix, and I am so impressed with this ride. Its so high and comfortable and has plenty of pep.

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  Awesome Car - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By mumbulo - September 12 - 7:20 pm

  This car is great. I love being able to fold down the seats (I think my Matrix actually fits more than my pick-up truck bed). The car is comfortable, great fuel economy and very roomy for a car of its size. The only real complaint that I have is that the tires that Toyota puts on are crap (noisy, very slippery in inclement conditions, and are already cracking with 26,000 miles on the car) but that should be remedied when we replace them. Great car, great value, would definitely recommend.