Used 2005 Toyota Matrix Consumer Reviews
Mazda3 Hatchback vs. Toyota Matrix
This is a great looking car that handles great, and is very versitile. The Mazda3 is quite comparable, but it has a bigger engine (2.3L vs. 1.8L)and is also 5 inches longer. The matrix however sits higher the mazda which is great if you hate sitting in trafic and having low visability. It is higher then sedans and slighly lower then a Rav4 in terms of seating. Matrix is slightly wider and taller then the mazda3. Unfortunately I did not get to test drive a mazda3 before I purchased this car, as I fell in love with it the moment I took it for a test drive. It won out when I test drove a Rav4 and a camary before this one. Very comfortable seats, great for long trips. Toyota = Reliable!!
Great mileage, looks, handling, & space
Just purchased the car (2005 model). . . I'm 6'2" and about 250lbs. and was amazed at the room this car offers for its size. Cost of this vehicle was excellent, looks great, offers excellent features, and has great versatility. This is the first Toyota I've ever purchased, so I hope it's as reliable as my 3 Nissan's were. I like this vehicle much better than my 2001 Ford it replaced.
Love my Matrix
After driving SUV's for 20 years, it is a pleasure to drive this car. Love the handling and fuel economy and cargo capacity is greater than expected. I would definitely buy this car again. I do not ride "offroad" and the all wheel drive handled the snow easily. I feel very confident when driving in heavy rain with this car.
Great car, all around!
I downsized from a Ford F150 Super Cab, and haven't missed it. My fuel bills have been cut by 2/3. I'm 6'4" and surprisingly fit very comfortably, even with our family of 5 in the car. It's a lot of fun to drive, especially with the manual transmission.
Chose Matrix over Mazda 3 Hatchback
I spent a lot of time investigating and researching for my next vehicle to replace a 2001 Ford Escape. Had it down to the Matrix or the Mazda 3 Hatchback. I test drove the Mazda, it was nice although couldn't really tell that it had more power than the Matrix. Bought the Matrix because we had a 2004 Corolla that has been great and the price was over a $1000 less than Mazda. The Matrix has not disappointed. Plenty of power, even some wheelspin! Have been getting a consistent 29-30 mpg for a mix of city and highway travel. Ride is great, better than the Escape. Lots of little extras make this a super Corolla with fantastic hauling capacity.