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:

• 

  Love my XRS - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By DPJazzSax - September 11 - 2:55 pm

  I have owned my XRS since new and love this car! It carries an amazing amount of stuff, and handles very well for a fairly tall vehicle. Gas mileage is above average (about 24 city/28 hwy) and repair costs have been very low.

• 

  Trixie the Matrix - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By GreenMile - September 7 - 11:30 am

  I replaced my Limited 4 runner with a more gas efficient Matrix. I thought I would hate at first but really it has all the space my 4 runner had and way better milage (33 mpg) on average. I have 25000 miles on it and have had no issues at all. I love driving this on my daily 100 mile roundtrip commute.

• 

  Good versality - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Oben - August 30 - 10:00 am

  Overall satisfaction is good. Up to the tasks expected

• 

  What happened to Toyota? - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Jeri F. - August 21 - 6:43 pm

  I ordered my Toyota Matrix with a 5speed manual trans. I have always driven manual and wanted to continue. My car is 4 years old and Im installing a new clutch! My last Toyota Corolla was 15 years old and no clutch. I also had to replace the tires at about 15K miles. I had a little Chevy S10 p/u with manual trans and it was great except I wanted more interior. It was 5 years and I didnt have to replace anything. What has happened to Toyotas? Im so disappointed.

• 

  167k Trouble Free Miles - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Original Owner - August 19 - 6:18 pm

  I just sold my Matrix XR after 162k trouble free miles. The only problem I ever had with the car was the original battery failing at 6mo. Even normal maintenance was pretty cheap with the car; (obviously oil, belts, coolant, air filters are really time based and dont vary from car to car) the Matrix was very easy on brakes & gas and decent on tires too. The car drove well with that nice Toyota balance of good comfort and reasonable handling. The ability to haul stuff is excellent! The rear seats fold completely flat, the front passenger seat also folds, and you can open the entire hatch or just the glass. All together, the combined to make a great car for road trips or oven to the lumberyard for 2x4s. If I could change one thing it would have been power- another gear in the tranny and 20 lb-ft more torque would have really helped (was disappointed with Toyota when the next generation came out and didnt address these issues, they were the only problems with the design). If youre reading this, youre probably looking at a used Matrix... if its been well maintained, go for it. It should treat you very well in the long run.

• 

  Room & great mileage - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By maukajt - August 17 - 2:13 am

  Have owned since 2/06. XR model auto, it gets the best gas mileage! People always asks us is we have a hybrid, as they cant believe the mileage, as well as the room. This age of over $4 per gallon gas. It has been a godsend as we are on disablilty. Even though we only have 4000 miles and have owned it for 2 yrs 4 months, we have not had any problems. It is a well made vehicle.

• 

  Honda lost me - 2010 Toyota Matrix
  By Anonymous - August 16 - 2:00 am

  Been driving a civic hybrid for five years. My local Honda dealers service was great. Went back. Drove the CR-V and crz. Didnt like either one. Decided to go look at the toyz. Found just the right compromise with for and the boss (wife) in the matrix. I got my SUV. She got her sports car. Its early but we both love it. If youre looking for a great priced mid-sized SUV you gotta check the matrix out.

• 

  wifes 1st new toy - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Clean Matrix - August 16 - 1:23 am

  After searching for about 6 months we finally decided to go with the Matrix. We test drove everything from a Mazda to a Pontiac and decided on the Matrix. With two children and two adults in it on a road trip it was excellent. Not a complaint about room or my side your side stuff. All of our friends and family couldnt believe for the money how many features we got.

• 

  "Oh what a feeling" - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By 1funnykat - August 12 - 2:00 am

  Im on the road alot. I was driving a Dodge Ram 1500 4wd lifted w/36 tires.That got 12 gallons to the mile. I needed something economical but with flare and style. There is no way I was going to drive something wqithout style. the Matrix is perfiect 4 me, its has style, great sound system and 43 mph.I bought the 5 speed 4 fun and it is.

• 

  Happy with Matrix - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By pammleigh - August 11 - 9:03 am

  I purchased the 5 speed matrix. I am very happy with it. The handling is very responsive. The sound system is enjoyable. My only complaint - the shifter makes kind of a cheap clicking sound when you shift. Also - all of the beeping for everything makes me crazy - but I guess this is true with all new cars. I am convinced I got the best car available in its class for the least amount of money - a bonus - my teenage son thinks the car "is cool."