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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  I like it ! - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Jerire - November 30 - 2:00 am

  The day I test drive that car I decided to buy it, because the matrix is somethign else in my opinion its very very smoot ride car specally for a long trip. Its fun to drive you never get tired of driving it.

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  Best Car Ive Driven - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By symsthree - November 28 - 10:00 am

  I love this car. I drove an Audi A4 for a few years and thought buying a toyota would be a little bit of a drop in class. I was wrong this car is sportier and a great buy. It is perfect for the modern working person, fun to drive and I would recommend that anyone intrested in a fun sport car that wont set you back $30,000 to try this Matrix you will love it.

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  I love my new car - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Alex - November 27 - 10:53 am

  I just bought a new Matrix. So far, I love the car. It drives well and with the larger engine, has great pickup. I am a large person, but with the extra headroom in the vehicle, I dont feel cramped. I think this car will meet and exceed my expectations for an economy vehicle.

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  Matrix - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Charles Moninger - November 23 - 9:26 pm

  Ive been driving mine for almost 3 years now and I absolutely love it. Plenty of interior room, excellent reliability, good mileage, nice design -- whats not to love?

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  I cried with the first fill-up! - 2007 Toyota Matrix
  By Beth G - November 19 - 2:46 pm

  Bought this Matrix used with only 8K and the original warranty - traded in my turbo 07 Forester which required premium gas and got 22mpg when premium went to $4.50/gallon. Computed the mpg on the Matrix with the first fill-up - got 36mpg!!! I cried! I love this car. I consistently get 32-36 mpg combined. Miss the sunroof and AWD of the Forester but got such a deal on the Matrix - bought snow tires and traction now as good as AWD.

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  Love it! - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Love it - November 19 - 12:56 pm

  From a woman point of view I love the car! I like the way it looks. But my husband has enjoyed it also. The interior space is surprisingly big; I mean, I knew everybody talks about the cargo space, but as a passenger you do have lots of room to play with. It has a nice turn to it, it is a smooth drive.

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  best compromise - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By to work and back - November 13 - 10:00 am

  Vechile purchased to meet mileage, saftey and poor road conditions( rain/snow). Driver comfort a plus due to long commute. Interior space very good for both front and rear seat passengers. Interior space accomodations for items very good due to flat fold seats and deck material. Standard features and xr option packages left little to be desired.

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  Love it! - 2007 Toyota Matrix
  By C - November 8 - 7:56 pm

  I had a 2005 Matrix until I was T- boned on driver side after a minivan ran a red light at 50 mph. Car was totaled, but I walked away with all limbs & I was so happy w. the safety of side impact that I bought another Matrix (2007). I love it! City MPG on manual trans. is about 29-30 MPG (I calculate it every so often). I am only 52" so I like that the seat raises and I dont have to be too close to the steering wheel.

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  Enjoying my *new* car - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By katie - November 7 - 12:56 pm

  We just bought this car and are so far very pleased. I have been dismayed by the few negative consumer reviews on this site, but most seem generally good and consistent with our experience. The interior plastic features are a little kitsch-y, but are neat looking. And, the clutch is... interesting... all things I can certainly live with if the car continues to run well and be fun to drive!

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  Great car my awd - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By HWR - November 4 - 7:20 am

  We purchased our 09 matrix in 2008. At the time living in snowy area we got the awd-s model with the 2.4 litre Camry engine. Traction control on snow/ice fantastic. Not too many other cars can beat it from a light, eccept maybe a sports sedan with a v-8? paint chips easily, seats uncomfortable&blind spots, mileage is o. k. 28-30 mpg on highway. Overall the car is good. 31,000 miles&only oil changes. All 4 tires will need to be replaced soon. Remember, its awd!