Overview & Reviews

Heading into a redesign for 2009, Toyota makes no changes to the Matrix this year.

• Comfortable ride, roomy backseat, versatile cargo area, impressive fuel economy

• Modest low-end power, important features like ABS and side airbags remain optional.

User Reviews:

Showing 21 through 30 of 31.00

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  Great dog & adventure-mobile! - 2008 Toyota Matrix
  By wawoof - June 15 - 5:36 am

  We decided to replace our 2002 Subaru Legacy wagon (EPA: 18/25) with a more fuel-efficient car. We went with the Matrix because it was the most fuel-efficient, economical, and reliable car we could find that would fit a large dog in the back. Great dog car! The dog barrier screws into the back of the rear seat - much more secure than any other dog barrier Ive encountered. The plastic lining the cargo area is SO much easier to clean than the carpet in other cars. It even came with a bunch of useful nets and screws to organize the cargo area. Perfect car for us and our dogs. And I love how all the seats on the passenger side fold down and the rear window opens to accommodate long items.

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  Purchased in Sept. 07 - 2008 Toyota Matrix
  By Tashadog - December 25 - 12:10 am

  I decided on purchasing a Toyota Matrix in Sept., after my new 07 Chevy Malibu was totalled in a car accident in August. It took me a little while to get attached to the Matrix, as I really liked the Malibu. Im getting almost 30 MPG (all city driving) with the Matrix. Its just a basic car - no bells and whistles, but its comfortable and, being a Toyota, Im expecting it to be around for a long time. Though it looks a bit small, Im actually able to fit my family of five in comfortably.

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  So far, so good - 2008 Toyota Matrix
  By satisfied9 - June 21 - 8:51 am

  Driven it for 2 weeks and its OK so far. 1) It has adequate acceleration despite having only a 1.8L engine (no cargo/people). 2) Dashboard gauges OK except reading speed gets a little fuzzy when between 60 & 80 (only in increments of 20) so you may have to glance at it more then once (distracting) if you dont want to go over the limit. 3) Location of transmission stick is too close to climate control knobs especially when in park (no hand room) 4) Daylight running headlights (dashboard light) always on which I found annoying/confusing but getting use to. Considering getting it disabled if I go with better bulbs for night driving. 5) Noisy/feel road when driving - tolerable

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  It squeaks - 2008 Toyota Matrix
  By rgaetano - October 17 - 12:20 pm

  We are a Toyota family, but are considering switching after this model. The passenger side door continually "squeaks." We are told to "lubricate" the door, but have never had to "lubricate" doors on Camrys, Corollas, or Echos that we have owned. Very disappointing.

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  My aching back and shoulders - 2008 Toyota Matrix
  By Nicki - August 7 - 7:16 am

  I wanted a matrix for so long! I was so excited to finally get one! Unfortunately that excitement is turning into misery. First off, Im not terribly picky. Ive never considered a little road noise to be an issue or felt the need to drive a car with the high end comfort. Comfort was something I completely took for granted, until now, The steering position is so awkward! I have the seat all the way forward, but still I must reach for the wheel. This puts a lot of strain on my shoulders. And something is not right about the head rests, they push my head FOREWARD! The passenger seat and back seats arent bad, just the drivers seat. As for road/wind noise, Its really bad.

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  Great Car - 2008 Toyota Matrix
  By RIDG3RUNN3R - September 11 - 4:30 pm

  I have put 15k on my matrix already in 5 months. We have been up and down the east coast, including snow in the Adirondacks this November. I have camped out of it on several occasions. This vehicle is a very reliable and versatile machine. I recommend it to anyone. Competes with any Subaru, if it isnt better. I have carried canoes, bikes, kayaks and skis. It handles well even fully loaded.

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  Good gas mileage but over rated. - 2008 Toyota Matrix
  By GMB - August 23 - 3:46 pm

  This is my wifes car. She bought it for the gas mileage which is good. As far as driving and comfort it does not have it. For a teenager this would be a great first car but Im 62 and long legged. Trying to back up is hard cause you cant see out the back. If you dont know how to use mirrors to back up your in trouble.

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  Just an Awesome Car! - 2008 Toyota Matrix
  By angelofmusic5583 - July 31 - 6:30 pm

  I have been wanting a Matrix for the last two or three years, and I finally got one at the end of 2007! It is the best car I have ever owned, and it is so much fun to drive! I dont regret for minute buying it, and not only is is sporty and cute, its very comfortable! Im 54, but I have people who are over 60 tall riding in my care on a regular basis, and they all agree it is comfortable as well! This is my first Toyota, and I believe they have me for life now!

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  Great mileage for suv alternative - 2008 Toyota Matrix
  By r1114h - July 14 - 2:30 am

  With gas prices soaring, had to trade in my 07 4dr tacoma. Didnt make sense for 50 mile daily commute anymore. Even in Atlanta traffic, I still manage 30-32 mpg with an xr automatic. Granted Im not driving aggressively or rarely top 60 mph. First vacation trip this week with 3 people, luggage, running air & 65-70 mph - got 34.5 mpg. Ive never got under 30 in 3 months of owning so far, beating the window sticker. Still able to pack enough with wagon like features.

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  Great Car but too much Air Noise - 2008 Toyota Matrix
  By Beverly - May 13 - 6:50 pm

  Great Car, but too much air noise. Instead of feeling like I am riding in a 19,000 car. I feel like I bought a 13,000 car. I feel like I need $6,000 in change. Other than that it is a great car.