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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  My Lucky Little Car - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Silverchild - May 21 - 1:23 am

  I had absolutely no interest in this car when I went car shopping. Now that I have it I could not be happier! The car is both fun to drive and reliable. I purchased it with 30,000 miles and have had no problems whatsoever despite the high mileage. The seats are comfortable and thats saying something with my awful back problems! The dash is beautiful and easy to read, the gear shift is set in a position that is both natural and comfortable, visibility is supreme with few blind spots and cargo room is fantastic. The back and passenger seats have hard plastic back covers for protection when toting large items, the passenger seat folds down as a table top and the car has 3 power plugs!!

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  2009 Toyota Matrix - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By 2009 Toyota Matrix - May 14 - 3:20 am

  I have had my Matrix for one year today and have loved every minute of it. I drove my first Matrix as a rental car in 2005 and had wanted one ever since but did not like the 1.8 liter engine. When I found out that the car had been redesigned in 2009 with a 2.4 liter engine I jumped on the chance to get it. The gas mileage is a little low but is well worth it in my book. I would definitely recommend the Matrix if you want both the hauling capability of a small truck and the ability to haul four people easily.

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  Manual trans is a piece of junk - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By mhlaur - May 10 - 4:00 am

  My manual transmission fell apart at 5 mths past warranty in 2007 as have many others since. Youll find plenty of posts on this website under Matrix Transmission Problems. Do not under any circumstances buy a used 2003 or 2004 manual transmission Matrix or you will sadly pay the price at around 60-100,000 miles. The transmission has been proven to have a faulty bearing which of course Toyota will not admit and take responsibility for. I had Toyotas from 1990-2007 and will never own another one in the next 50y.

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  Toyota Matrix = College Students Dream - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Alex - May 4 - 7:00 pm

  I live in Upstate NY, and I must say that the AWD Matrix handles winter weather exceptionally well. Also, as a college student, the space the Matrix provides (especially when the seats fold down) is extremely accommodating. I practically fit my whole dorm room into this wagon! I love the Matrix so much that if I was ever to purchase a new car, it would definitely be a newer version of the Matrix, I cannot see myself driving any other car that fits my needs. The gas mileage for an AWD car is amazing: I drove from Oneonta, NY to Rochester, NY on a full tank of gas and I had above a half a tank still available. Ive also found it to be very fun car to drive and the seats are very comfortable!

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  Good at First - Not happy now - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Bill - April 29 - 4:20 am

  The car was great for a year, then the heat mixer dial broke, dealer fixed, then I push the 4 way button and it falls into the dash, ok, dealer fixed, lately the car has a bad idle vibration and engine stumbles at stops, dealer said this is how this engine runs, paint scratches easy and its starting to rattle in thedash, I dont think toyota quality is all that great. Dont go with this one, wont buy toyota again, Ill trade it for a Mazda. Oh the door under the stick keeps popping open like a jack in the box. Dont think this car will last.

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  Love My Matrix! - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By Lynne Richards - April 28 - 7:23 pm

  I just traded in my 04 Mustang for an 06 Matrix. This is my first Toyota and I absolutely love my Matrix! The gas mileage is fantastic. I love everything about it. The only small and I do mean small complaint is the engine bogging down when the air conditioning is on and slows the acceleration rate. Other than that absolutely no complaints whatsoever!

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  Would prefer leather interior - 2007 Toyota Matrix
  By neighborette - April 21 - 10:03 am

  On the highway with light city driving I average 34 miles per gallon. The money I save on gas over my last vehicle pays my car payment. People like to complain buy American, [non-permissible content removed]. I would much rather spend that extra money on a newer car from a manufacturer that has created American Manufacturing Jobs. Toyota keep up the good, but no perfect work.

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  Nice little car - 2006 Toyota Matrix
  By 1st Toyotabuyer - April 14 - 5:00 pm

  With just a little over 1,000 miles on the odometer am getting about 27 mpg average. This is a nice quiet little car and seats five easily. Runs smooth and handles well. I like the cruise and all the power options. It does ride quite low to the ground, which is nice on clear dry roadways, but not for winter driving conditions. The AWD is fantastic. We can rely upon it to keep everything moving in slick conditions. I am hoping that the mpg will increase a little over time. But very satisfied so far.

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  Small Car, Great Value - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Kim Mason - April 13 - 10:00 am

  This car is fun to drive and is small. For my husband and I it is perfect. Its got a lot of get up and go capacity.

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  Black trans fluid - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By jpg - March 30 - 10:00 am

  Anybody else with transmission fluid that looks bad at 32,000 miles, Dealer dosent care, Asked them if they are seeing this in the other matrix and they say no but its perfectly normal in mine. Fluid should go 100,000 miles.I like the car, dont like being given a line of bull.I think the trans is going out.