2013 Toyota Matrix Review by Cars.com Staff

2013 Toyota Matrix

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2013 Toyota Matrix

Starting MSRP $19,275–$22,415


Expert Reviews

By Cars.com Staff

Cars.com National July 15, 2012

Vehicle Overview

The 2013 Toyota Matrix is a compact hatchback that can carry up to five people and plenty of cargo. It comes in a base version as well as an S trim. The Matrix competes with hatchback versions of the Kia Forte and Mazda3.

New for 2013

For 2013, the base Matrix gets a new CD stereo that includes satellite radio, iPod connectivity and Bluetooth audio streaming. The uplevel S model gets a stereo with a 6.1-inch touch-screen.

Exterior

The Matrix has an aggressive-looking front end that features a bulging hood, thin wraparound headlights and a small trapezoidal grille. Smooth bodyside moldings give the Matrix a modern appearance, and the hatchback's forward-swept D-pillars enhance the car's sporty shape.

S models can have an optional Sport Package that features 17-inch alloy wheels, front and rear underbody spoilers and a rear spoiler. Exterior features include:

  • Available 16- or 17-inch wheels
  • Daytime running lights
  • Heated power mirrors
  • Available fog lamps
  • Available moonroof

Interior

Front sport seats and a three-person rear bench seat give the Matrix room for up to five people. The 60/40-split backseat can fold down when more cargo room is needed. Interior features include:

  • Available metallic interior accents
  • Front passenger seat folds down on S models
  • Standard power windows and locks
  • Standard cruise control

Under the Hood

Base models are powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder mated either to a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. The S comes with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder teamed either to a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission.

All models are front-wheel drive except for the specially equipped all-wheel-drive S trim, which uses a four-speed automatic.

The base and front-wheel-drive S models come with a basic rear torsion beam suspension; the all-wheel-drive S model gets a more complex rear double-wishbone suspension. Mechanical features include:

  • Standard 132-horsepower, 1.8-liter four-cylinder with 128 pounds-feet of torque
  • Available 158-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 162 pounds-feet of torque

Safety

Standard safety features include:

  • Front side-impact airbags
  • Side curtain airbags
  • Active front head restraints
  • Antilock brakes
  • Electronic stability system
  • Traction control

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*Invoice prices are made available by Cars.com and are not dealer advertising. All prices are subject to regional variations. Prices last updated 9/23/10. Click here for more information.