Used 2003 Toyota Matrix Consumer Reviews
Best of both worlds
Not too many cars that go from 0- 60 in 7 seconds, yet get 32 mpg on the road. Also, the fact that there's lots of room in back with the seats folded down is a major plus. Are you reading this, bicyclist and skiers? It handles great and is a pleasure to drive long distances. I regularly took 1000 mile round trip drives and it never missed a beat. The extra kick pas 6000 RPMs is addicting. It looks cooler the longer you have it, with all of the ground effects, but that did have its down side. The front spoilers were too low and I was always scraping them on curbs, sometimes damaging them. I would have kept it, but decided to get a 4X4 SUV for the Wisconsin winters. I miss the gas mileage.
2003 Toyota Matrix Base
I have mixed feelings about my Matrix ... it's definately an attention getter(8/10 scale Lexus RX300), somewhat fun to drive, very practical and fuel efficient ... on the other hand it's relationship with Pontiac Vibe is rather apparent ... Dash is very tasteful, but it's a chore on the sunny day, cheap GM, seats are too soft and covered with something that would look appropriate on inside 1984 Celebrity, not XXI century Toyota.
A Fatal Flaw
The Toyota Matrix HR would be my choice of an all around vehicle, but for one serious flaw - poor visibility of the instrument panel during daylight hours in bright sunlight, or when wearing sunglasses. This is not a minor flaw, as having to squint, stare, remove sunglasses, or attempt to shade the instruments from the sun is a dangerous safety hazard. Driver attention is diverted from the road for far too long to be safe. Oil and water malfuctions can ruin an engine if not seen in time. The bottom line is that the function of an instrument panel is defeated if it cannot be seen in a quick glance by the driver.
Matrix
I purchased a Matrix a little over a month ago. So far I am very pleased. The gas mileage is great - averaging 27 mpg for mostly city driving. The interior is funtional and roomy. The styling is a little different, but overall it is a good looking car (although a little goofy from some angles). Performance is great - especially when the timing changes above 6000 rpm.
Good car
Good car. Had to trade in a new Mustang for a family car. Looks sporty and has plenty of room all around. Miss the horsepower, but it is reliable and safe. Great visability and easy to drive.