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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  Entering the Matrix - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By oscaguilar - March 12 - 10:00 am

  You dont drive the Toyota Matrix. You become part of the Matrix due to its excellent comfort level from the driver’s seat and your body position in relation to the steering wheel.

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  Dont Believe the Negativity - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By matrix09lover - March 4 - 1:12 am

  Ive owned my 2009 XRX Matrix since the 1st one came into the local showroom in Feb 2008. Positives: I get 27mpg in town & 30-35 on the freeway with the 2.4L engine. Im 63" and have plenty of headroom. I love the smart gears which allow me extra power going up hills or lower gearing for the heavy snows. The storage is great and Ive gotten lots of compliments on the rear seats. I love the peppiness and get up and go the car has when getting on the freeway. Cons: Yes, there is a lot of road noise and performance tires needed for the XRS trim are more expensive than regular tires and only last 36K-40K miles at the most. This is a great car. I plan on keeping it a long time.

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  my wife loves it!! - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By terry jenkins - February 28 - 7:46 pm

  well with about 1k miles on it now and 6 weeks of ownership, we are real happy with our choice! the matrix handle well, gets excellent gas mileage and seems to be a well engineered vehicle! in fact i found out that toyota uses the same oil filter on the 1.8 lt that they used on tha 2.2 lt in our camry we owned for 12 years and 200k.

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  Minor Issues - 2010 Toyota Matrix
  By Kibbles00 - February 27 - 10:00 am

  I love this car but I have some minor complaints. On cold days, the fog on the front window is terrible. Water is retained on side windows so you cannot see out. There is also no place to put a drink in the center. I spilled so many drinks.

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  Very Reliable Useful Vehicle - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Southpaw - February 24 - 5:16 pm

  This is a great reliable car. If you want a car that is practical and a little bit fun buy a Matrix. I haul my dogs around in comfort. When I buy Toyota I expect a trouble free car and that is what I got. I wish the gear shift was a bit smoother but it isnt bad. You get a comfortable ride on the highway and it does great in the city too.

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  Didnt Know What I was Looking For Until I Found It - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By tandem2 - February 19 - 5:09 am

  I had been looking for a vehicle to give my 2001 Trooper a rest for the work commute. I had driven everything from BMW X3s to the Nissan Cube and was really getting disappointed. Then I got behind the wheeel of a 2009 Matrix XRS with 10k miles on it...WOW! Within 5 minutes I knew that I had found the vehicle I was looking for. Comfortable for my 6 foot frame, sporty, fun to drive, relatively economical and pretty darn practical for the exterior dimensions. It has been 3 months since the purchase and my wife and I are still commenting how pleased we are with the car. We some long (400+ mile) trips coming, and we are looking forward to them. Great job Toyota!

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  First Thoughts - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By hatchbacker - February 11 - 10:00 am

  The XRS is a lot of fun to drive. The six shifts smooth; gates for 5th, 6th and reverse take a little getting used to. Oozes quality and value. Good acceleration and handling. Strong point is ergonomics-big back seat, lotsa versatility, comfortable seats all around. Easy entry/exit for all riders. Also considered loaded Mazda 3s, but the space was not quite on a par with Matrix, and Toyotas interior and comfort appeal to me. Mazda 3s center pillar intruded too far into my right shin.

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  Toyota Matrix is WOW - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By whgille - January 27 - 9:43 am

  Since the day I bought this car it has been a pleasure and from now on I will only purchase a Toyota. There is a ton of room for cargo when you fold down the rear seats. The tie down features of the cargo area insures that nothing will be moving while you are driving. The operation controls are all easily reached and with the automated features you do not even have to remember to turn on or off your headlights. I think that the Matrix is a good mix of styling and functionality.

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  Consumer review 2003 Toyota Matrix - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By Dr. T - January 11 - 8:03 pm

  Unbelievable handling. Fun to drive, but with some drawbacks. 1) hard to manage clutch. 2) brakes, clutch, steering wheel not real comfortable. Needs to have telescoping steering wheel and more room above clutch as toe hits firewall before clutch is fully depressed. 3) excessive pressure required on clutch to start vehicle is a pain, perhaps can be adjusted. Sound system is great, but requires much difficult reading to master as the owners manual is poorly done in this area. GOOD mileage (33 mpg hwy, 29 city). Decent (not great) power, best over 4,000 rpm. Cargo space is very good, but cup holders get in the way of emergency brake. Basically, Im glad that I bought it.

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  04 Matrix - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By SaraInMA - January 11 - 2:00 am

  This is my first new car and I love it. I also looked at the Corolla and Saturn Ion. I chose the Matrix because it gave me all of the room of an SUV but with the costs of a car. It is really fun to drive and I find it very versitile. Make sure you get the "weather" package to get the rear window wiper if you live in a snowy area since it doesnt come standard. I really like the feel of this car, Im an average height person and can see easily out of all of the windows. I love my car!