Used 2009 Toyota Matrix Consumer Reviews
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Matrix - Better than the sum of it's parts
Ken Tejada, 04/15/2016
2009 Toyota Matrix XRS 4dr Hatchback (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
65 of 65 people found this review helpful
To give context, my previous car was a 2003 Mazda Protege5 - 5-speed manual. That car had fantastic handling and it felt faster that it was. This car is a better car. It feels more solid, not as tinny as the Protege5. It is not as fun as my Mazda, but it is close enough. The rally style 5-speed manual shifter mounted on the Matrix's center console feels accurate with rifle bolt precision. Steering feedback from the electric unit was decent. The suspension is firm but comfortable, sporty but not a sports car suspension. The interior feels cavernous to my 5'8" frame. Acceleration is good from the 158 hp 2.4L engine. The car is not WRX fast, but fast enough. Passing on the highway is a breeze, thanks to the ample torque (162 lb-ft). It feels nice that the Matrix can still pull from only 1500 RPM in top gear. Front seats are comfortable as well as the rear seats. The rear seat is not that wide though. The rear seat can hold 2 people comfortably but 3 full sized adults will be cramped. The rear cargo hold is pretty large. The seat cloth is of good quality, but it would have been nice if there was a leather option. I compared the Matrix's rear cargo area to my friend's 2010 Scion xB and it indeed holds more cargo even than the xB, even though the xB has a more functional square cargo area. We verified this by stacking 32 count spring water bottle packs at a Wal-Mart in NJ. The Matrix could pack more water bottle packs than the xB. Who knew!?!? And this is with the rear seats up. BTW, the rear seats fold flat so you can effectively double your cargo capacity. That came in handy for my IKEA trips. The JBL audio system, JBL subwoofer and JBL speakers sound great, no need to upgrade for now. The overall fuel economy is 27 mpg, 80% highway. This car has been pretty reliable so far. I deducted a star because of the outward vision, engine and fuel economy. The front pillars are real think. Sometimes, you can't see people crossing near you in the city, very odd. Others point to the rear visibility as a problem, but Toyota has provided large mirrors, if adjusted properly will get largely get rid of the blind spots. The engine, though smooth, eats some oil, despite filling it with Mobil 1. You have to check your dipstick more often to make sure you are not low on oil. The fuel economy should be better for a 4-cylinder. In addition, the paint could have been more lustrous and there could be less hard plastic everywhere, but this is a Toyota, not a Lexus. There should not have been so much hatred from the automotive press for this car. The car handles well, is fairly comfortable, has good acceleration, good sound system, cavernous interior space for 4 people or for cargo. True the interior could have been more upscale considering the MSRP at the time, but that alone should not have drawn the ire of so many automotive journalists. I guess these journalists don't understand that regular people are fine with vehicles that can do many things well, which is what this Matrix does. True the Matrix is not as fast as 370Z, as fuel efficient as a Prius, or as good a people and cargo hauler as a Sienna, but that's OK. At least for me it is. Just test drive any vehicle before you completely pass judgment based on what the press opines.
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Don't Believe the Negativity
matrix09lover, 09/21/2013
2009 Toyota Matrix XRS 4dr Hatchback (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
42 of 43 people found this review helpful
I've owned my 2009 XRX Matrix since the 1st one came into the local showroom in Feb 2008. Positives: I get 27mpg in town & 30-35 on the freeway with the 2.4L engine. I'm 6'3" and have plenty of headroom. I love the smart gears which allow me extra power going up hills or lower gearing for the heavy snows. The storage is great and I've gotten lots of compliments on the rear seats. I love the peppiness and get up and go the car has when getting on the freeway. Cons: Yes, there is a lot of road noise and performance tires needed for the XRS trim are more expensive than regular tires and only last 36K-40K miles at the most. This is a great car. I plan on keeping it a long time.
2009 Toyota Matrix for sale near you
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Perfect for me
09trix, 08/25/2012
2009 Toyota Matrix XRS 4dr Hatchback (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
25 of 25 people found this review helpful
I got this car over a year ago to replace my first car, an Oldsmobile that broke down at least once a month. As a young girl in college, I wanted something reliable that also looked nice. I love the unique look of the XRS, the interior is comfy, and everything is easy to use. I know a lot of people aren't happy with the gas mileage in the 2.4L but it's fine for me, I get about 30mpg on the highway. I also LOVE how much space it has; I was able to haul a full-size mattress in it! The only complaint I have is that it's a little cheaply made... the paint flakes off the hood way too easily and the interior scratches very easily. Other than that, no complaints. This car is just what I needed.
A big step up.
gabagooo, 07/20/2008
2009 Toyota Matrix S 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
11 of 11 people found this review helpful
I traded my 2007 Yaris HB in on the Matrix. As a city car, the Yaris was great, but as a roadmaster, not so good. I test drove a Rabbit, which felt small compared to the Matrix, which seems bulk. The car has a heavy feel and is very comfortable on long drives. I am getting 29.5 mpg highway and 20 mpg city - exactly as advertised. The Matrix offers a lot of value for the money and I am pleased with my purchase. Compared to the Yaris, this car feels very solid and safe.
Toyota onslaught of Service Bulletins
matrix1_8l, 12/02/2011
2009 Toyota Matrix 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
36 of 40 people found this review helpful
I bought this car originally because I wanted to replace my old hatchback with something reliable and fuel efficient. So I went for the 1.8L up until now I had gotten what I paid for. The issues started when I went hit the 50000 mile mark. Since then I have been to the dealership service center over 5 times for major repairs. All of which are documented in Service Bulletins. The latest issue affects all matrix and corollas with the 1.8L engine and will not be covered after the 60000 mile warranty runs out. They actually have to go in, take apart the engine and replace engine components of the crankshaft assembly. That doesn't seem reliable to me.
Reliability is the name
faosa, 02/15/2020
2009 Toyota Matrix 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
I owe a second hand 2009 1.8L manual transmission since 2011, and I writing this review in 2020. I never had a Toyota before and I am truly impressed with the reliability of this car. It had 24k miles when I bought it, now 103K miles. The engine never had a problem and I never had to replace the water pump, just breaks, oil and filters. The engine feels like it felt when I bought it. A lot of people complained about the rattle, mine has no dashboard rattle and everything sounds like when I bought it. This doesn't mean it's silent, it is not in the highway for today's standards but nothing changed which for me is unheard of. I also found out that this 1.8L does not have the same problems as the 2.5L that burns oil, so I guess I got lucky. I am getting pretty bored of driving the car, just because it's been 9 years, but it's such a money saver and I can always drive my wife's car every once and while. I note that I drove this car from the Midwest to, Baja CAlifornia, Mexico, to Maine, to Florida and to Washigton, looping back through Oregon, Calfornia, Nevada (in +100F heat), Colorado and back to Wisconsin. Super reliable machine.
Best car I have owned
Anthony, 09/15/2015
2009 Toyota Matrix XRS 4dr Hatchback (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
13 of 14 people found this review helpful
This car is great! Honestly the only thing I could want is more power!!!! But thats just my led foot and v8 love talking. I dont understand people saying the car has blind spots.... I haven't found one yet. I did add on the little 1inch bubble mirrors for extra help but I have always added that to all my cars. The get up and go rocks as long as you disengage the traction control... then you can screech the tires a bit. The ride in the xrs is a bit hard but ill a tribute that to the stiff sports suspension. Yah the car was a bit loud on the road but all Toyota's are. Add some dynamat from your local car audio shop and enjoy the car i did. Im 6'2" and have more than enough leg and head room in both the front and back seats.
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Liked old body style better
Shelia Jackson, 06/17/2016
2009 Toyota Matrix S 4dr Hatchback (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
22 of 25 people found this review helpful
If you had and loved the 2003-2008 Matrix or Vibe, you will most likely be disappointed in the body style that came out in 2009. The hatchback window doesn't open, the larger engine isn't as fuel efficient, and it doesn't have the roof racks. The clutch in my 2009 Matrix is very hard to engage. I had my 2003 Vibe for 7 years and had well over 200,000 miles on it before I totaled it. In my haste to get as close to the same car, I bought the 2009 Matrix. After five months, I'm trying to find a low mileage, pre 2009 Vibe or Matrix and sell the one I have now.
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Reliable, 2.4l not great on gas
red rocket, 07/01/2020
2009 Toyota Matrix S 4dr Hatchback (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
have owned for 10 years now. very reliable and low cost of ownership and maintenance. still on original clutch, starting to go now. 2.4l engine powerful but dreadful on gas. about 200-230 miles on a tank in winter city. 260-290 summer highway if youre lucky.
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Excellent solo camper!
Travis Kelly, 06/09/2018
2009 Toyota Matrix S 4dr Hatchback (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
15 of 17 people found this review helpful
I bought the 2.4L, 5-spd. manual S version with 75K on it for a 4300-mile road trip through the southwest -- W. TX, AZ, UT, CO, NM -- encountering every kind of driving condition, and couldn't be more pleased. Has enough power to pass on uphill grade in 5th gear. Going down 8%-10% mountain grades with hairpin turns (Hwy. 12 UT, 550 in CO), I appreciated the manual trans. -- you really need to shift constantly between 2nd, 3rd and 4th to control your speed without burning up the brakes. The steering and performance wheels/tires really held the road well on those tight spaghetti turns. The Matrix functioned fine as a compact solo camper -- the flat-folding rear seats and almost flat-folding passenger seat allowed me to extend a tri-fold memory-foam mattress for sleeping comfortably. The slight incline over passenger seat not a problem — I slept like a baby and could nod off seeing the stars in the desert sky through the open sunroof. I used a trunk organizer for food and cooking gear, a duffel for clothes, and chose compact backpacking gear, with small folding table and chair. Everything fit in the cargo area with room to spare -- I just rearranged gear for the sleeping pad. Didn't need a roof rack and box as I thought I might. Enjoyed not having to set up and take down a damn tent and inflatable pad every day -- if campground sites were full, I could always sleep in the parking lot or find a spot elsewhere. Really impressed with the intelligent design of interior -- 3 dome lights, 4 grab handles, textured black no-glare dash top, easy-to-read illuminated gauges day and night, tie-down anchors in cargo area with that plastic hard surface great for gear, very comfortable driver seat (never a problem over a long days driving). Glad I wasn't driving one of these gigantic RVs and trailer-hauling trucks on these mountain roads. Had to swerve suddenly to avoid a suicidal pronghorn -- thank God I wasn't in some top-heavy SUV! If you're doing a long solo trip, this is all the car you need and it performs excellently in all conditions, including 40 miles of washboard dirt.
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My Matrix Design Saved My Life
staylor80, 10/03/2010
2009 Toyota Matrix 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 4A)
14 of 16 people found this review helpful
I bought the Martix for it's carrying capacity & for my dog. BUT, it was destroyed two days ago in a 5 car collision. I was rear ended 3 times at 55 mph, & struck pick up in front of me. I walked away with minor injuries. EMS & police all commented on the quality of how the vehicle stood up under that assault and the EC nurses were amazed. So, I will be replacing it with a new 2010 model later this week with NO hesitation. The only thing is, I'm looking for way to keep cargo contents from flying around in a crash (things too big for the net that came with the car).
Great for snow
bigislandboy99, 12/25/2008
2009 Toyota Matrix S 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
10 of 11 people found this review helpful
I've been waiting to test the AWD and I finally got my wish! Snows and compact ice has been all around the renton are for the past two weeks. This matrix AWD S has had no problems getting around. It is very controllable and predictable, even with a foot of snow with the standard AWD. Car is great in normal weather as well. Its great for hauling people around and lots of room for a "compact" vehicle. Road noise can be pretty bad, especially on the rough free ways in Seattle. The gas mileage could be a little better and/or a little large gas tank. Overall very pleased and glad i got it for this region.
Great commuter car
matrixgirl09, 05/26/2008
2009 Toyota Matrix 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 4A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
Good gas mileage. Sits higher than other cars but if you come from an SUV then you'll like it. Heated side mirrors are great for the ice/snow. Plenty of room inside. Visibility is ok, better than other small cars. Engine is good enough even though its a base model. I am small enough that it turns the airbag off when I get in, so that is a nice safety feature. Very little noise and vibration.
2009 Matrix get a 1.8 engine not a 2.4
Dude, 08/26/2010
2009 Toyota Matrix S 4dr Hatchback (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
The Matrix 2009 is a great looker but terrible on gas mileage maybe 17 if I am lucky. If you drive like a old man at 55 maybe get 20. I screwed up and wanted power and bought the 2.4 engine instead of the 1.8 . With a 2.4 the gas goes down these fuel injectors like its no tomorrow. It's really a shame I picked a gas guzzler and it doesn't look like a SUV.
Didn't Know What I was Looking For Until I Found It
tandem2, 02/03/2011
2009 Toyota Matrix XRS 4dr Hatchback (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I had been looking for a vehicle to give my 2001 Trooper a rest for the work commute. I had driven everything from BMW X3's to the Nissan Cube and was really getting disappointed. Then I got behind the wheeel of a 2009 Matrix XRS with 10k miles on it...WOW! Within 5 minutes I knew that I had found the vehicle I was looking for. Comfortable for my 6 foot frame, sporty, fun to drive, relatively economical and pretty darn practical for the exterior dimensions. It has been 3 months since the purchase and my wife and I are still commenting how pleased we are with the car. We some long (400+ mile) trips coming, and we are looking forward to them. Great job Toyota!
Matrix doesn't disappoint
greg, 09/18/2008
2009 Toyota Matrix 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
The Matrix replaced a 2001 Dodge minivan. We hoped to retain cargo flexibility, improve gas mileage, vehicle handling and reliability. With care in packing, the Matrix had ample camping room using a 10 c.f. soft carrier pack on the roof. Skis can be stored inside or on top. Gas mileage has averaged 30 mpg combined; 32 mpg- highway. The car is quiet, steering responsive, holds the road, suspension somewhat stiff, solid feel overall. For its weight, engine, and transmission combination, acceleration is quite good. Seating is comfortable with ample back seat room. The more I drive it, the more I appreciate its subtle qualities. A car to buy for long term value and not for instant gratification
Noisy engine and excessive oil consumption.
Rand Lanterman, 01/07/2019
2009 Toyota Matrix S 4dr Hatchback (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
11 of 13 people found this review helpful
The engine makes terrible noise but dealer says normal. (NOT NORMAL) it consumes excessive oil. My wife needs to check oil after every 2 fuel fill ups. Why even change filter we’re constantly adding new oil. Dealer is of no help. Toyota has always been a quality car manufacturer but fell way short on the Matrix.
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Ten years and 70k miles Review
mike s, 09/20/2019
2009 Toyota Matrix S 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
20 of 25 people found this review helpful
Adopted a Matrix S-AWD, Auto from my daughter who was a second owner for 50 k miles. Car was at the dealers many times for about $8k worth of repairs over the 8 years she had it. This car is a dealers service managers dream. Constant major repairs with very high replacement parts costs. Adding labor at $125 an hour you can see the massive bills this car runs up. She had enough and leased a Hyundai Tucson and I bought this from her,(dealer wouldn't give her much for it). That said my review starts. I do own a 2009 Hyundai Sonata which has 55k miles on it and I will not compare the Matrix to it, since the Matrix falls short in many ways. My overall opinion of the Matrix, with my credentials of a retired aerospace manufacturing manager is that Toyota either terminated off its entire reliability /materials engineering staff or ignored their evaluations. I have never seen a car corrode as bad as this one. Bolts, clamps brackets, oil lines and seals all failing with rust. The use of steel bolts into plastic corroding and causing breakage when trying to remove is common throughout the car. A recent and common leak of automatic transmission fluid is from the trans oil cooler lines. Toyota welded two lines together and where they are joined to a bracket a rust pocket forms causing complete failure of the lines and loss of trans fluid. To get repaired the part is $91 from the dealer and 3 hours of work. Do the math and you are looking at a $500 dealer bill, not counting hose and rusted clamp replacements. My cost doing the work myself and replacing the welded assembly with a 4 ft. x 3/8 bent up and cut coated brake line was $6. So you can see where I am going with this, Great car if you are innovative and can do the repairs yourself, of course with the tools and experience of a good backyard mechanic. If you are looking for a low cost car to maintain and rely on a dealer , this is not a car for you. For that matter a Toyota or Lexus I put in the same categories. Toyota has lost a lot in my book because of very immature and poor engineering as well as the lack of reliability/materials engineering disciplines.
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utilitarian
chuck k, 12/18/2018
2009 Toyota Matrix 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
A great commuter car. Basic, simple, reliable. Only work I've had done is caliper, disk, pad, and rear hub replacement due to salt and rust damage. I wish the brakes were stronger and that the car had more low end torque. I have a manual transmission. There is a slight delay when pressing the accelerator from idle . I think the seats are comfortable, but the clutch and brake pedals are too close together, which is a problem when wearing boots. A good reliable car for the money.
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Trip Mileage
Lou, 06/04/2009
2009 Toyota Matrix 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I recently came off a trip and the mileage I got with my Toyota Matrix was 40 mpg going and 41 mpg returning. It's no bull. I couldn't believe it myself. I never drove over 62 mph; used cruise control; and I was the only person in the car. The car operated flawlessly. I'm 73 and this is probably the best vehicle I have ever owned. I have owned many.
Better than the movie
Anthony, 03/12/2008
2009 Toyota Matrix 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 4A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
The Matrix has a very cool look. The ride feels very smooth as a boat ride. The main reason why I bought the Matrix was to comfort my legs and so far it has done a very good job. Toyota really did a good job augmenting the standard options like the side airbags, trip meters, maintenance indicator, tire pressure indicator. I like that the driver seat can be adjusted vertically. I like that things are very accessible under the hood. I also appreciate the all wheel disc brakes making it easy for me to replace the brake pads when the time comes. I calculated 22 mpg on mostly mostly city streets and 30 mpg on mostly highway driving.
Caught dead with a matrix
Jeffery Sheppard, 09/11/2018
2009 Toyota Matrix 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
16 of 21 people found this review helpful
Buyers beware, 2009 Toyota Matrix is a lemon that never got recall! This car has problems with oil consumption that do not warn the operator of the vehicle. The engine rattles. and now the check engine light comes on indicating that there ia a problem with the coil. The coil was replaced a few times. All of my cars are Toyota from my wife's Highlander to my 4X4 Tundra. If I had to do it again, no small cars from Toyota will be shopped. Toyota appears to have forgotten its base of customers that proudly supported her. I will never buy a Matrix again. I really hope someone sees this post before they make the same mistake.
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Great car my awd
HWR, 01/19/2010
2009 Toyota Matrix S 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
We purchased our 09 matrix in 2008. At the time living in snowy area we got the awd-s model with the 2.4 litre Camry engine. Traction control on snow/ice fantastic. Not too many other cars can beat it from a light, eccept maybe a sports sedan with a v-8? paint chips easily, seats uncomfortable&blind spots, mileage is o. k. 28-30 mpg on highway. Overall the car is good. 31,000 miles&only oil changes. All 4 tires will need to be replaced soon. Remember, it's awd!
Awesome Car
S, 01/19/2009
2009 Toyota Matrix S 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Purchased to replace Chevy Blazer. I really love this car. Very fast for what you would expect. I am normally very nervous driving in snow but the Matrix handles extremely well. I have not even fishtailed once this season.I would recommend this to anyone.
Reflects the Driver...
Jack Rabbit, 08/28/2008
2009 Toyota Matrix S 4dr Hatchback (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Being an Admirer of the Prius and the fact that there's a waiting list for one, I browsed the lot at the dealership I went to and I could not get over the awesome body style and "unusual" paint job (sunburst metallic). The thought of another six year car payment was dreaded but I'd moved from a 30 minute commute to and from work a day to a 65 minute one and I needed better gas mileage and a warranty so I decided to "bite the bullet" and managed to leave with a manual 09 Matrix S. Not for one moment do I regret it!!! The gas mileage is incredible (compared to my 01 Chevy Cavalier), It's very "giddy" in the speed department, Very maneuverable on the road and comfortable to drive...
Finally!
annette, 07/18/2008
2009 Toyota Matrix S 4dr Hatchback (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I didn't know the Matrix existed. I hated the car I was driving, so I went to the Toyota place to look at Scion, but saw the Matrix in the showroom. I was hooked. I love the dropdown seats and the fact that they are flat. The seats are comfy and everything on the dash is easy to get to. The doors don't close on my legs, large and roomy.
S AWD
Steven, 04/16/2009
2009 Toyota Matrix S 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Driving experience is fun for a crossover AWD vehicle. Ride is fairly smooth and build quality seems good other than a crackle and pop here and there. The car has ample power for a 158 hp 4 cylinder with all wheel drive, especially when driven in 3rd. Has plenty of room in it and versatility. The car has good looks inside and out, and definitely doesn't blend in with the ugly looks of some of it's competitors. The dash layout is very nice and sporty looking, and is easy on the eyes.
I love my new car
Alex, 05/23/2009
2009 Toyota Matrix S 4dr Hatchback (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I just bought a new Matrix. So far, I love the car. It drives well and with the larger engine, has great pickup. I am a large person, but with the extra headroom in the vehicle, I don't feel cramped. I think this car will meet and exceed my expectations for an economy vehicle.
awesome car !!
barbara, 11/05/2008
2009 Toyota Matrix S 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I just got the AWD Matrix yesterday. I love it !! I am down sizing from a Toyota 4 Runner. It's fun and easy to drive. As fast as a bullet ! I got the radiant red loaded one. I have never had so much fun driving a car. I am 47 years old.
Great vehicle
Garrett Hughes, 06/16/2008
2009 Toyota Matrix S 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Purchased just this week, sorry I cannot tell how good the fuel efficiency is yet. Purchased the AWD due to northeast driving conditions and because it handles like a go-cart! Steel wheels offer better ride than 17" alloys. "road noise" mentioned by others is the AWD, they are all a little noisy. Interior design is ergonomic, S model offers nice perks for little than $15k more. Recommend mudflaps and rear bumper protector (hatch step). I am 6' tall 220 lbs and with the telescopic column and adjustable manual seat I fit comfortably, arm rest could be 4" longer. Great pickup, car cruzes at 80 MPH without too much noise, stock radio is fantastic. 115V outlet is very cool for lap top charge.
Nice Ride
GrindEm, 03/21/2008
2009 Toyota Matrix S 4dr Hatchback (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Bought the 2.4L with the 5 speed manual tranny in radiant red. This car needs the 2.4L to move the extra pork at an acceptable pace. I love the engine and the tranny, very positive driving experience! I am 6'1 and find it to be a little tight in the seat and in the foot wells. The layout is very handy and will fit a lot of stuff with the seats folded down. However the design makes for the worst tunnel cover for privacy I have ever seen! I really like the new exterior styling, big improvement over the geriatric 1st generation. I love the way Toyota puts their packages and model lines together, clean and straight foward. All in all a fun car to drive, quick, agile, stable, good price, aux jack.
Better than Professional Reviewers Say.
CarParker, 06/24/2009
2009 Toyota Matrix S 4dr Hatchback (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
8 of 11 people found this review helpful
I read a lot of tepid & dismissive reviews before I purchase the Matrix S. I've driven many of the cars recommended as alternatives. I think the problem is perception. The look of the Matrix is a bit sportier than its performance. But the gap between its main contender, the Fit, is even greater. If you accept that no one really cares what you drive, so don't rely on your car to define your personality, what you get in the Matrix is Balance. I think this balance is what confounds the automag pros. A little sporty, a lot practical, amazingly reliable. Design is Clean & Simple, Driving is Balanced & Poised. Quick & smooth without being completely lifeless. A sport hatch for the pragmatic.
2009 Matrix
Gisele Coyy, 09/26/2019
2009 Toyota Matrix S 4dr Hatchback (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
I have only been buying Toyota since 1985. I have had nothing but good luck with many of these cars/hatchback/sedan/SUV. almost no repairs large enough to make me consider buying a new car. I have only purchased new cars over the years. It's been 10 years with this Matrix.
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Mileage is better than advertised
happy matrix owner, 04/29/2008
2009 Toyota Matrix 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Bought the car new after test driving Honda Fit, Scion XD, 08 Matrix. Was looking for best combination of gas mileage and space. This one has it. Now have 2800 miles on the car and the worst mpg was 32, best was 34. This is daily commute into Washington DC, combination of half highway, half parking lot.
My First car, and it's AWESOME!
Chris, 06/14/2008
2009 Toyota Matrix S 4dr Hatchback (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I recently baught a brand new Toyota Matrix XR, and I have never been more impressed with a car then I am with this. The 2.4L engine is smooth and powerful, providing loads of passing and acceleration power. The interior and exterior are impressive, the exterior being sleek and sexy while the interior being easy on the eye and inviting. I've averaged 30+ mpg in mostly city driving. The steering is a tad numb, but that doesn't bother me as everything else about the car is totally amazing. The biggest selling point for me, being 6 feet tall and long in the leg,is that I can sit comfortably in the car thanks to vertical height adjustment for the driver's seat and a telescoping steering wheel.
Fun econo car with extras
fingerstyle22, 06/23/2008
2009 Toyota Matrix S 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Downsized from an 02 Ford Explorer. Off the bat, the 09 Matrix has greatly exceeded my expectations. First off, I ordered the car with extras: leather seats, 'darker' tinted windows, backup sensor, Perma Plate protectant. Uniquely original design for '09: dramatic outlines all around; SUV to CUV/stationwagon functionality. However, with 17" tires, VSC, AWD, 2.4 liter 158hp engine and 162lb feet torque (double cams), electronic steering, the car slices easily through traffic, and corners like butter. Handles road bumps with a rock solid chassis. Excellent fuel at 20/26 variable plus or minus 3 mpg either way. 5 Star metallic paint! "Black Sand Pearl".
Vibration Issue
Burrito, 08/15/2008
2009 Toyota Matrix S 4dr Hatchback (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
The Matrix has been a fun car to drive and I have enjoyed it greatly over the 2006 Corolla I traded in. I don't enjoy the 35 MPG that I did with the Corolla, but I have been averaging about 27. The car has pep as I easily find myself doing 80 in a 45 without noticing. I have been experiencing a vibration on the light console above the gear selector (Map Console?). The vibrations occur only when the sun is low or set, but will start even on a smooth road. I am chalking it up to thermal expansion of the roof when it is in the sun. Has anyone else experienced this? I can not get Toyota to fix because alas, the service department is not open when it is dark out.
Trucker for life converted
smeg, 08/27/2008
2009 Toyota Matrix S 4dr Hatchback (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I was looking to downsize from my Tacoma since gas is so expensive and I went to look at Scions when the sport Matrix jumped out at me at the dealership. I never wanted to drive anything but a truck but this little car is really growing on me. The city gas mpg is so so but its a huge improvement from what I had, also I've already been camping in it and not only did it fit all mine and my GF's gear, we still had plenty of room for my 70lb lab to be comfortable and we got 30 mpg most of the trip. I like the re-design of the 09s over the older models, especially the aggressive front end. This certainly isn't my dream vehicle but I defiantly don't regret the purchase.
A great family car!
Anna, 06/04/2008
2009 Toyota Matrix 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I was looking for a combination of best gas mileage, reliability, cargo space, practicality and a sporty look. I have to be able to see myself still driving this vehicle over 8 years from now since this is a long term investment for me. I had a great purchase experience from the dealer, which is sometimes hard to believe from experience, but they were very helpful. I am 5'2 and the flexibility of moving the driver seat higher is a plus. It's easy to maneuver and getting the kids in and out of the car is so easy. Plenty of cargo space for a stroller, grocery bags and kids sport stuff. I am so proud of this car's practicality mixed with sportiness appeal. Thank you Toyota
Love this car!
Toyota lover, 06/13/2008
2009 Toyota Matrix 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Oh my I love this car! It is peppy when passing other cars, who needs the 2.4 ltr, sacrificing the gas mileage is not worth it. Gas mileage so far is about 32mpg and that doesn't include any highway. The handling is amazing and it runs really quiet, hardly any road noise at all! Sound system is nice and the interior is positioned very well. The back seat is adult friendly and you can pack a ton of stuff into the back when the seats are down. This car is great, the best one we could have chosen for sure. There is nothing bad about it so far! Buy one, you'll love it!
Fun to drive, some utility, good on gas
Steve, 07/20/2008
2009 Toyota Matrix S 4dr Hatchback (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
1800 miles so far. Fun to drive. Feels like a sports car. Great for utility. Only slightly smaller in back than my 4runner. 2.4L engine is great but reduces mpg. I get 30 highway. 35 would be more to my liking. It's worth it to me so far though. 5-speed manual is fun but needs one more gear on the high end. A 6th speed (extra overdrive) is what it really needs. That would gain a few mpg and reduce revs on highway. This engine could handle it. Gas pedal seems to be on wrong angle for me (6' and slim). Right foot hurts if I drive highway too long. Always get a nice greeting when people see it, esp younger. It is a slick looking car. Clutch was jumpy for first 1000 miles, ok now.
You can't be told what the Matrix is
Teebone, 04/27/2008
2009 Toyota Matrix XRS 4dr Hatchback (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I've had this car for a week and I don't want to get out of it! I held out for the 2.4L Matrix and it was well worth the wait. Handles great, corners great, steering is a bit numb but the acceleration more than makes up for it. The 4-wheel independent suspension and 18" rims sold me for the XRS model... a real head-turner. This car is the sportiest thing a 6'3" driver can fit in and still have some resemblance of a back seat left. Getting in and out is a bit snug but once you find your settings it fells like you are part of the car. Vehicle Stability Control does make a noticeable difference. Ive been too excited to calculate MPG yet but all other features have lived up to the spec sheet.
Good Car
twocruzin, 07/22/2008
2009 Toyota Matrix S 4dr Hatchback (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Have had the car for four months now and it's working out very nice. It now has over 7k miles on it and we just got back from a 4k trip. Gas mileage on the trip ranged from 27 on very hilly interstate to over 33 on flat interstate all with A/C on. At home we consistently get 30 to 32. We like the higher profile of the car and the ease of getting in and out. The headrests are a problem for short people (5') as we've had to turn one around to accommodate my wife otherwise it pushes into her head. We don't care for the low profile tires as they ride rather hard on the country roads where we live if inflated to recommended pressure (32 psi). They're better at 30. Like the 17" wheels though.
Good value
Baystater, 05/25/2009
2009 Toyota Matrix 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Bought an'09 base model 1.8L manual with power package June 1 of 2008 for 16K. Have 13500 miles on it. Smooth ride, smooth shifting, excellent stability control for cornering, excellent disc brakes, decent gas mileage (28-29 city and 34-35 highway), good cargo capacity (can fit my bike w/o taking wheel off), very readable dash, adjustable telescopic steering wheel, seat comfort lacking in lumbar support, poor paint job (easily scratches from road debris), and horrible rear visibility (almost didn't buy it because of poor visibility). Given price difference with a Prius, e.g. 16K vs 23K, I figured it was a better value. Glad I bought it.
Love Matrix 2, 1.8 touring 5 sp manual
Robtech, 11/23/2008
2009 Toyota Matrix 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This 2nd generation has better roadholding, there's no front wheel spin, it really holds the road well especially when climbing. I got 32mpg in mixed driving. Noticeable low end torque between 1900rpm to 2800rpm. I love this 2ZRFE 1.8L engine.
Great car for a great price!
Mom of 2, 08/07/2008
2009 Toyota Matrix 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
We sold our Honda Odyssey because it was getting terrible gas mileage. I decided to test-drive a Matrix as several others I know have a Matrix. I LOVE IT! The only complaint is the paint job seems kind of poor and scratches v. easily (silver is my color). But so long as it get 32 mpg and is dependable that's all I need! Great little car and fits me, my 6-year old twins and our 2 dogs just fine! I would not hesitate to buy one! Love the hatch-back too. Very sporty and fun to drive (I have the basic 1.8 ltr/automatic).
They don't make em like this anymore
Zachary Robins, 11/07/2018
2009 Toyota Matrix 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
I bought my matrix as a wide eyes 19 year old. Opted for this over an 07 Prius and I havent looked back since. We're miles away from 200k and shes still running great. The only repairs I've had to do were a water pump and the alternator. I've enjoyed this car so much and taken her across the country. 4 batteries; countless tires and oil changes. I'm going to this baby. But it's time for a bigger car.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
I really like this car!
Ken, 07/04/2009
2009 Toyota Matrix 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 5 people found this review helpful
I've owned this car for about a month and my conclusion is I really like this car. Had an Accord prior and wanted to size down for more gas savings and better maneuverability with a small vehicle with good storage space. I liked the balance offered by the Matrix and thus far it has been a great little car. I got the 1.8 engine on purpose to save gas, and it is surprisingly peppy. I'm going to the beach and it's amazing what I can fit into such a little car. I'm having a blast!
Luv that Matrix?
george, 01/21/2010
2009 Toyota Matrix 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
We have owned the Matrix for a year. We purchased at the peak of the gas price run last year and its clear that Toyota gave us no price breaks. We paid $21,000 for the 2 wheel drive car. Its a fun peppy hard riding car with style. Its got poor visibility out the back and only OK mileage. I have the metallic red, no paint chips so far!
Big Disappointment
camrykiller, 03/17/2011
2009 Toyota Matrix 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 4A)
8 of 21 people found this review helpful
I bought this car because it looked cool, and I always had Toyotas. I thought it would be fun to drive, and good on gas. Wrong. The car is ridiculously boring to drive. At 49,000 miles, the paint is peeling off the hood and front bumper...should be rusting soon. This car has the worst blind spot in auto history with the ridiculous pillar thing in the back rear. The interior is cheap, and it drives like a tonka toy car. Although the car will probably run forever, I would not buy this car again. I traded it in at 49,000 miles for a 2007 Honda Accord. Let me tell you....There is no comparison! The Toyota Matrix is so boring to drive and is a waste of money unless you just want A to B