Used 2003 Toyota Matrix Consumer Reviews
Great for my needs
The Matrix, for me, is a wonderful replacement for a 2002 Corolla I had. Long story short, I disliked the Corolla but found the Matrix had a lot of features I always wanted. Gas mileage is decent, only trade-off from the Corolla. With the Matrix I can lie down in the back--great camping car. My bike fits, too. Those complaining about the lack of power, etc., may have expectations too high for a 4 cylinder-- buy a six or eight and pay the difference in gas costs. The four cylinder, which maneuvers just fine at 70-75 mph, is ideal for the many different types of driving I do.
Best Car I've Ever Owned
Wow! That about sums up my experience with my 2003 Matrix. The _ONLY_ issue I've had with the car in 14 months and 51,000 miles is a rattle in the dash at about 20k miles. Although it took two trips to the dealer to get it fixed (I got a written appology for not fixing it the first time from the service manager), it hasn't reappeared in over 30k miles. If I were to improve one feature of the car, it would be the winter fuel economy. I get between 36 and 40mpg in the summer and only between 32 and 34mpg in the winter. My next vehicle will be another Toyota.
- XR WagonMSRP: $4,99556 mi away
- XR WagonMSRP: $5,99960 mi away
- Base WagonMSRP: $9,50069 mi away
Fun Car
With an automatic it is a little underpowered. The fun factor of the car is impressive. I read Edmunds review and I don't think they did this car justice. The handling was very good. It huggs the road like glue. Take off is good for an econemy four cylinder. I think the power of the XR model might be better at low end than the XRS. The exhuast note is very cool. It has a racey sound to it. The value is very good. I looked at a Rav4 but you get more for your money with the Matrix. I think it should be noted that viewing this car online makes it appear to be in-line with a Ford Focus. Not true. Actually this is an SUV/Car.
Best car ever!
This is by far the best car made for the price. I was looking for an all around vehicle, with some hauling capability and good gas mileage. But I didn't want an SUV and I also didn't want to spend a fortune. It's extremely reliable - so far ;-) - and is a blast to drive. I have the base model w/auto and though I've heard others complain about the lack of power, I never have any problems passing when needed. A fantastic car, that's for sure!
Lovin' It So Far!
Just bought the Matrix XR over the weekend and I must say that I really like it. I got the FWD automatic because shifting bites in DC traffic and because its intended to be the "family car". I would have gotten the XRS but I figure if I wanted a bigger engine then I would have gotten a sports car. People look at the car everywhere I go and its because its a great looking car.