Overview & Reviews

Toyota's compact hatchback/wagon is redesigned. The new 2009 Toyota Matrix is the same size as the old one, but a new 2.4-liter engine makes it a better performer and all-wheel drive is once again an option.

• Smooth and quiet ride, ergonomic cabin layout, adult-friendly backseat, perfectly flat load floor makes it an excellent cargo hauler.

• Mediocre gas mileage with 2.4-liter engine, tepid driving dynamics.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 104.00

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  AWD Lacks Good MPG - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Gabagooo - December 12 - 10:30 pm

  I have had the AWD Matrix since July 2008 and overall, I like the car. The AWD system has been very nice to have this winter, but at a high cost. I am averaging just 22 MPG on the highway, which is lower than expected. Next time i am in the dealership I am going to have them check for problems. Also, on very long drives, the seats can become a bit uncomfortable. When the car is wet, water from the roof spills onto the rear seat when you open the back doors.

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  Continue to be impressed - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By SoCalMatrix - December 10 - 11:36 am

  Ive had my Matrix for almost nine months and my affection for it continues to grow. The Matrix is great for former SUV owners (such as myself) - it sits higher than your average sedan, and has a surprising amount of space. My first test drive sold me, as I found I had plenty of arm room and didnt feel cramped at all (unlike my test drive of a Mini Cooper, which felt almost cartoonish). But what really sold me is the styling - what a great looking car! My only disappointment is city MPG. Most of my driving is in stop-and-go city traffic, and I only get about 22 MPG. I chose the base model for fuel efficiency, but that aspect of the car has been slightly disappointing.

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  Worst and Last Toyota I will ever own - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Disillusioned - November 15 - 5:13 pm

  This is the absolute worst car I have ever owned in my life, even worse than the used clunkers I drove when I was young and had no money. I have previously owned two Toyotas, which I absolutely loved (Corolla SR5 and an MR2). In this case, the third time is definitely not a charm. The car has no power, does not shift smoothly, the rear visibility is terrible, and the defrost leaves a lot to be desired. It is too bad that Toyota does not offer the same deal that General Motors does (i.e., give it back in 60 days if you are not satisfied), otherwise, this car would have been brought back in a heartbeat. Please run, dont walk, if someone tries to sell you a Matrix.

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  Better than Professional Reviewers Say. - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By CarParker - November 7 - 7:40 pm

  I read a lot of tepid & dismissive reviews before I purchase the Matrix S. Ive driven many of the cars recommended as alternatives. I think the problem is perception. The look of the Matrix is a bit sportier than its performance. But the gap between its main contender, the Fit, is even greater. If you accept that no one really cares what you drive, so dont rely on your car to define your personality, what you get in the Matrix is Balance. I think this balance is what confounds the automag pros. A little sporty, a lot practical, amazingly reliable. Design is Clean & Simple, Driving is Balanced & Poised. Quick & smooth without being completely lifeless. A sport hatch for the pragmatic.

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  Toyota onslaught of Service Bulletins - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By matrix1_8l - October 11 - 7:58 pm

  I bought this car originally because I wanted to replace my old hatchback with something reliable and fuel efficient. So I went for the 1.8L up until now I had gotten what I paid for. The issues started when I went hit the 50000 mile mark. Since then I have been to the dealership service center over 5 times for major repairs. All of which are documented in Service Bulletins. The latest issue affects all matrix and corollas with the 1.8L engine and will not be covered after the 60000 mile warranty runs out. They actually have to go in, take apart the engine and replace engine components of the crankshaft assembly. That doesnt seem reliable to me.

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  S AWD - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Steven - September 7 - 4:03 am

  Driving experience is fun for a crossover AWD vehicle. Ride is fairly smooth and build quality seems good other than a crackle and pop here and there. The car has ample power for a 158 hp 4 cylinder with all wheel drive, especially when driven in 3rd. Has plenty of room in it and versatility. The car has good looks inside and out, and definitely doesnt blend in with the ugly looks of some of its competitors. The dash layout is very nice and sporty looking, and is easy on the eyes.

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  Love my Matrix XRS - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By hlnkid - August 27 - 1:30 pm

  I purchased my 2009 Matrix XRS 3 weeks ago, downsizing from a Highlander. I absolutely love it! XRS model comes with 18" wheels, that roughen the ride a tiny bit, but they handle beautifully, esp around turns. Great sporty look and feel. XRS comes standard with rear spoiler, helping to give the car a bit more ump to its looks. Good interior room, easy controls. A few small blind spots in rear, but easy to get used to. Im not at all disappointed with my purchase. Id highly recommend the 2009 Matrix to anyone looking for a solid smaller car with great handling, good gas mileage and one thats fun to drive!

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  The 1.8L is great too - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By docket - August 25 - 12:06 am

  I never thought I could love a car so much. There is so much room inside, yet it is small on the outside. The ride is smooth and the seats comfortable. My dad is still talking about how he could fit in the backseat with ease (all 350 pounds of him). The gas mileage is averaging 25 mpg with a combination of city & highway driving.

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  Surprising new generation of Matrix - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By 4kbeast - July 24 - 12:53 pm

  All wheel drive really helped me out; we got a couple of inches after I got it and the AWD in combination with the vehicle stability control and traction control gave me a lot of confidence. Plus, you get like 6 airbags. Im a big fan of the new look of the vehicle. I overlooked the previous generation, but after seeing a rally built version at the SEMA show, I was a big fan of the hatch. Ive always loved hatchbacks! I couldnt decide between the AWD S or the FWD XRS; both have the multi- link rear, which gives it a much sportier feel. I decided on the AWD auto over a XRS auto or manual because I drive in traffic and need AWD for winter. Both have the Camry 2.4L 4 cylinder.

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  2009 matrix 4d hacthback - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By abstract007 - June 30 - 5:23 am

  I replaced a vw beetle with the 2009 matrix its good not to be in the every month. So far so good its lacking pickup the automatic transmission could use improvement in order to get power I have to be hard on the kickdown but it will reach 110mph on a good day with a tail wind. Toyota need to improve the transmission, noise level fr;under carriage, front suspension easily get out of alignment,fuel 31mpg average I commute it meet the daily needs