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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  Go Matrix!! - 2007 Toyota Matrix
  By David - March 27 - 11:00 pm

  We bought ours despite all the reports that the steering wheel is too far away, etc. I am 6 4" tall, (wife 54") and I am very comfortable in the front and rear of ours. My wife and 10 yr old daughter love it too. Our gas mileage runs about 27 overall, but our first trip got 38.5 MPG!! Beats the minivan we traded for it big time. We like the cargo room and are very familiar with the Toyota reliability. We are pleased in every way with this car, even on trips. We highly recommend any Toyota.

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  Toyota is resting on its reputation. - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Chris - March 26 - 9:10 am

  Very disappointed in this vehicle. We bought Toyota because of legendary reliability, but have lost 2 hubcaps due to cracking and the interior has fallen apart. Excessive road noise, uncomfortable seating position, and lousy ride and fuel mileage has made this the last Toyota we will ever buy. Also, this car made for idiots will not let you turn off the lights.

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  Best car so far - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Bill-B - March 16 - 10:33 am

  Acceleration is to slow. Very good car. Best car ever for around $20,000

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  Love my Matrix - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Anne Barnett - March 11 - 8:20 am

  After driving SUVs for 20 years, it is a pleasure to drive this car. Love the handling and fuel economy and cargo capacity is greater than expected. I would definitely buy this car again. I do not ride "offroad" and the all wheel drive handled the snow easily. I feel very confident when driving in heavy rain with this car.

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  Dash Board Problem - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Mot - March 4 - 10:00 am

  My car dashboard rattles when I drive specially in the freeway. I took it to the dealer and they just put some insulation in it. The car still rattles, so I will take it back to service.

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  Fun car to drive. - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By vparque - March 2 - 9:53 pm

  I like everything about this car but two things: 1. Not enough power. The car does not accelerate fast enough. 2. No covering for the trunk area. I want to put a subwoofer in my car, but I dont want to show it to everyone who walks by my car when I park it on the street.

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  2 For the Road - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Cactus Buckeye - February 27 - 2:00 am

  We bought 2! 2000 4Runner lease up & air went out on 1993 Escort ~ had to get 2 vehicles. "Sacrifice" coming down from 4Runner, "Plus" coming up from Escort. Bottom line, a happy medium & long term - Toyota dependability.

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  It is the perfect car for me - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By samy - February 25 - 10:00 am

  it has a good space inside, beside it is preety fast and that what i like the most. it is the perfect car for a college student

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  Is Toyota ever going to do what I want? - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By windysun - February 19 - 11:36 pm

  I love my 09 Matrix. My tall kids are comfortable in the back. I think it is the best looking car for this class. However, Toyota skimps on little luxuries. If this car were made by Lexus under a different name, I would buy 3. This car needs more comfortable seats. As usual, it is bare bones. I dont feel I paid bare bones price though. When you hit a curb or something, holy cow. The whole car gets a jolt.

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  The Mini SUV - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By WorkerE - February 11 - 9:53 pm

  Compared this to a Corolla on the dealer lot and was immediately amazed by the amount of interior space and the fact that you dont feel like youre falling into the seat. You are almost sitting at the same level as some SUVs on the road. Gauges and interior controls are well placed and easy to operate. Handling and performance is ok for what you get in this model which is relatively basic. Plenty of room for family of four to get around - even on relatively long trips. We really like the hatchback design. Biggest gripe is the tire wear - were at 47000 miles and just had to replace tires for the 3rd time and they aint cheap for this car. Told that Matrix design just burns through tires.