Toyota Matrix 2003 - 2008 review

Toyota Matrix 2005.   Photo: Toyota Canada

Toyota Matrix 2005.   Photo: Toyota Canada

Toyota Matrix 2005.   Photo: Toyota Canada

Toyota Matrix, introduced in 2002 as a 2003 model, is a very practical, fuel-efficient, reliable and easy-to-maintain vehicle, based on popular Toyota Corolla.

The Matrix comes as a four-door hatchback, with front- or four-wheel drive.
The Matrix Standard and XR come with the transversely-mounted 4-cylinder 1.8-liter engine with VVT-i (variable timing), which is the same engine as in the Corolla.
The sporty XRS model comes with a high-performance 180-hp 4-cylinder engine with VVTL-i (variable timing and lift) and an available six-speed manual transmission.
The Matrix has MacPherson struts in front and semi-independent torsion beam (Double Wishbone in 4WD) in the rear suspension. Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) are optional (standard on XRS).

The interior is roomy, with generous headroom for the front and rear passengers. The split rear seat folds down flat, offering plenty of cargo space. The front passenger seatback folds down, transforming into a table. The rear hatch window opens separately for easy access. The dashboard looks sharp and sporty, with round gauges and chrome trimming. The driver's place offers tall seating position and easy to use controls. I really like the optional 115V power outlet, where you can plug in your laptop or a cell phone charger during a long trip.

Toyota Matrix offers more stiffer ride, compared to the Corolla. Overall, handling is good. One observation though: during a strong side wind you can feel that this is a fairly light-weight vehicle. The engine is a bit noisy at acceleration. The optional four-wheel drive system provides better traction on a slippery road.

In the NHTSA frontal crash tests, the 2003-2004 Toyota Matrix has received five stars for both, the driver and the front passenger. The 2005-2008 models has received five stars for the driver and four stars for the front passenger in the same tests.

Engine

Strengths

- Good fuel economy
- Reliability
- Stylish sporty look
- Practical roomy interior
- Cargo room
- Rear hatch window opens separately

Weaknesses

- No leather seats
- Interior looks a bit cheap, plastic trim around the stereo is easy to scratch
- The engine is a bit noisy
Problems are rare and mostly minor, like noisy serpentine belt idler, check engine light, and alike.

Overall

The Matrix offers a combination of great fuel economy, stylish sporty look, generous space and versatility. Add good reliability records and low maintenance costs and you are looking at a very attractive deal. The Pontiac Vibe is a mechanical twin of the Toyota Matrix and can be considered as an alternative.
Check more used small car reviews

What to look for buying a used Matrix

Definitely check the used car history records to protect yourself from hidden problems - follow this link: How to check used car history
- Check the service records if available - it's important to verify that the car was properly maintained.
- If the "check engine" light is on, have the problem assessed with your mechanic or a Toyota dealer before buying a car; in worst cases repair might be quite expensive.
- Black soot in the exhaust may indicate excessive oil consumption.
Learn more what to look for when buying a used car
- Prior to purchase, have the car inspected by a mechanic of your choice.
Shop wisely, check few cars to compare; it's worth to pay a little extra for a well-maintained vehicle in good condition. Check our step-by-step used car buying guide for more information.
Some models may be costly to insure. Get the insurance quotes first.

Few maintenance tips

- Wash and wax your car regularly to protect the paint.
- If you live in the high-humidity area, consider rustproofing your vehicle to protect the body and the chassis components from corrosion.
- Regular oil changes are very important to keep your engine in a good shape.
- Overheating can cause serious engine problems.
- Synthetic oil can provide extra protection for your engine.
- Winter tires will provide much better traction on the snow.
- Change transmission fluid regularly, using original Toyota transmission fluid.
- Use original Toyota parts, they are not very expensive.
- Follow recommended maintenance schedule and keep all the fluids clean and topped up.
- Have your car inspected, at least once a year, in a garage on the lift (e.g. when doing tire rotation) to keep it safe. Many components (e.g. brakes, steering, suspension) cannot be properly inspected during a simple visual inspection at fast lube places - the vehicle must be on the lift.
Check more Car maintenance tips

Toyota Matrix short specifications (2006 model)

Links

Repair manual

If you need a repair manual with diagnostic procedures, check engine codes description, wiring diagrams, maintenance schedule, component location, technical service bulletins, recalls, etc. - follow this link: Where to find repair manual

by Vlad Samarin