Used 2007 Toyota Matrix XR 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 4A) Consumer Reviews
Satisfied
I purchased a 2007 Matrix XR at the end of August. I wanted a car with a reliable reputation and ABS that went a bit beyond the Corolla that has been in the family for the last 5 years without any problems. I carefully read all reviews and find the car (to date) worth the investment. The fold down seats in the back are an advantage when the extra space is needed. Gas mileage (open road -36/37 mpg); city and open road about 27) is very good. I recently had the opportunity to drive my sons 2000 BMW 320i. I found the Matrix to be better handling; of course he can get to 40 mph or more in a 35 mph zone faster.
Every Car Should Be This Fun To Drive
The fact that I put on over 24k in the first year of ownership should tell you how much I like this car. My highway mileage when keeping the car between 65-70 has been routinely 38 mpg. In town, 29 mpg. In terms of "fun to drive factor", this car has not disappointed. By fun, I don't mean lots of torque. Think nimble, like a Mini Cooper or other small wheel base car with perhaps a little more oomph. The power is more than acceptable for a commuter car. The capacity is deceiving, with the seats down, I fit 8' lumber with no prob. Headroom is excellent, my 6'5" friend sits inside with room to spare. DIY maintenance has been easy with only oil & filt change and tire rotation every 5k.
- Base 4dr HatchbackMSRP: $5,995716 mi away
- StandardMSRP: $7,495744 mi away
- Base 4dr HatchbackMSRP: $7,650828 mi away
A Very Good Buy
After 1,000 miles, I have no regrets. Bought for its gas mileage and versatile interior which are even better than I expected. Ave. 29 mpg local and 37 mpg highway. Driver's seat is high, but I'm short so its fine. Added side air bags, stability and traction control, ABS, window tint and leather seats. The versatile interior is great whether carrying groceries or lumber. A more powerful engine would be nice, but I'll take the mpg. A comfortable car mostly driven locally. I have no doubt this was an excellent purchase.
Good City/Town Car
After 11,500 miles the Matrix is finally broken in enough to review it. The usable space is fantastic. It has plenty of zip for city/town driving (especially w/ TRD performance filter). Ours is loaded as possible w/ sunroof, wheels, upgrade stereo, ABS, airbag package, trim package, etc. These cars look silly w/o the extra trim IMO. My disappointment rests in the cars rattles in the dash and elsewhere. Way too new for this, and whatever happened to legendary fit and finish. Lousy Gdyr tires and their harsh ride had some to do w/ onset of rattles (better ride and fewer rattles now w/ Michelin tires), but it's still no excuse. Best mileage thus far has been 33 mpg (highway), disappointed.
Decent city car
I traded in a Subaru for the Matrix and I miss the power. The Toyota is a nice solid car and fits a dog well, lots of storage, very comfortable driving and comfortable for four adults. The center console is messy and doesn't fit a coffee cup w handle. Acceleration is kind of lame, you have to be light on the gas or you'll squeal the tires. I'll keep it because it's so economical and dependable. I haven't put a cent into it. But it is boring and really pretty terrible in the snow we have in Michigan.