Used 2005 Toyota Matrix Consumer Reviews
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.
almost perfect
I have had my Matrix XR for about 600 miles now. It's everything the reviews said. It's sporty, roomy inside, handles great thanks to the Goodyear Eagle tires and keeps suprising me with it's great features. I've only ran one tank of gas so far and got 28mpg on mostly city driving, no highway. That's a little less than I hoped for but still pretty good. Yes, the seating position for the driver takes a little getting used to. (See improvements below) But once the seat is adjusted you have little problem. The sunroof and ABS brakes are terrific as is the upgraded stereo system. The stereo rivals my home system when you are playing a CD. The dash lighting (red on black) is wonderful.
Good Car
This was my first all-wheel-drive vehicle, and today was my first day in the snow. This was an excellent choice for me as it's a solid, reliable car with some panache and good affordability (don't like spending a bundle on cars). Cargo area is surpisingly useful for a compact. Interior is not luxurious but fun and utilitarian. Good cup holders and a cubby just right for a garage door opener is included.