Here's what Edmunds.com has to say about the Toyota Matrix: " ... we're convinced that the Matrix would be a satisfying choice for many people -- it rides comfortably; it handles capably enough; it has plenty of room in the backseat for your friends (or your kids); and it provides a lot of flexibility for those whose interests require a lot of equipment."

We find the Matrix a solid choice for someone wishing to combine the functionality of a sport utility vehicle with something with a sportier look and drive.

We've had a number of these in stock in the past and have always been impressed. It's most notable qualities include comfort, ample interior space, good handling and highway stability, a generous list of standard equipment, good gas mileage and quite affordable prices. Some can even be found with all-wheel-drive and stability control.

And of course, they come with Toyota's reputation for quality and reliability. Resale values have also been good, lowering the total cost of ownership over the longer term.

The Matrix also has excellent genes, being based on the Toyota Corolla ... the number #1 selling vehicle in the history of automobiles. It's essentially a Corolla in hatchback form, with extra room and available four-wheel drive.

Used Matrix models can be found in base, XR, and XRS trims. Both the base and XR came powered by a 1.8 liter four-cylinder engine that produced 130 horsepower with front drive models and 123 horsepower with AWD models. The Matrix XRS is equipped with a 180 horsepower engine four-cylinder and is front-wheel drive only.

Base and XR models came standard with a five-speed manual transmission, while the XRS featured only a six-speed manual. A four-speed automatic transmission was included on AWD models and optional on those with front-wheel drive. The AWD models are the same height as the others and are not really intended for off-road duty.

Antilock brakes are a standard safety feature on XRS and AWD models, and available as an option on other versions. The XRS was also equipped with rear disc brakes. While front side airbags were optional for all models, curtain side airbags were not offered.

A household-type power outlet can be found in XR and XRS models, and is an option on the base. The XRS also has aero body trim, and like the front-wheel XR, offers optional 17-inch wheels rather than the standard 16 inchers. Some used Matrix models can also be found with the optional navigation system and/or the optional in-dash 6-disc CD changer.


Overall, in our humble opinion, the Matrix is simply one of the better choices available for those shopping for a hatchback or small wagon. And we have two suggestions to help you save money when buying one.

You see, we're Car Wholesalers, not a "Retail Car Dealer". This means we buy direct at the Dealer-Only auctions and have nowhere near the overhead of a traditional Dealer. So, our cars sell at or near wholesale auction prices.

ONE: We're always on the lookout for a low-mileage, used Matrix (including the base, XR and XRS models) for sale at the wholesale auctions we attend ... and we can buy one specifically for you, thereby eliminating most of the typical car dealer expenses (rent, payroll, advertising, etc.).

Just Email us below. Tell us what you want, the features and model year(s) and we'll get back to you with a quote within 24 hours, usually much sooner. Just click on the Email Icon.

TWO: You can go to Public Car Auctions in your own geographic area to acquire a wholesale Matrix first-hand. While this may take more time and effort on your part, there are indeed excellent deals for those willing to shop these events.

Here's an article with additional information on locating these auctions and the key issues in using them to your advantage: Find A Toyota Matrix At A Public Car Auction In Your Area.

Also ...

If You're Interested In A "Brand New" Matrix: People swear by the interesting method detailed in this article for getting the best prices on new vehicles.