2009 Toyota Matrix consumer reviews

The Matrix is a car I wanted to like. It looked funky and seemed to be a great value. But since I drove it off the dealer lot I have been really disappointed. The millage is lousy for a small car. I average 26 miles per gallon, which for a car this small is awful. My old VW Golf TDI average 41. More disappointing is the fit and finish. THe interior pieces just don't feel well made at all. The plastics are already fading and cracking, and the glove box creaks when you open it. Also, the reliability has not been so good. Since I took ownership 2 months ago, the a fan belt broke and the front bumper completely fell off the car when i went over a series of potholes in West Chicago. (The car showed no signs of damage before that happened) I once thought that Toyota's were quality affordable cars, but this car has changed my opinion. It is just put together really cheaply, and covered up with attractive pricing and styling. It is a shame though, because this car has nice seats and and a pretty good size trunk, but those are not enough for me to ever recommend this vehicle.

I've had my Maxtrix S model (Automatic) for four months now and am very satisfied with it. It is comfortable, has adequate performance and has a roomy, versatile interior. Gas mileage is steady at 33mpg, but I am an "eco-driver", the kind you hate to be behind. My two quibbles with the design are: Shifter is too prominent on dashboard, I am learning not to knock it out of gear when reaching for the radio; and rear quarter visibility not the greatest, but large mirrors help with that. After 15 years in a Toyota MR2, I like the upright seating position. Being 15 years older now makes me appreciate entry and exit ease. I've owned and driven three Toyotas over the past twenty-five years exclusively, reliability has been top-notch. I would never gamble my transportation money on anything else.

This car is simply fun. I cant think of a more versatile car, with more space and functionality, with better gas mileage. 31 mpg with sport utility space. If gas hits 4 bux a gallon, i have the best possible car buy on the market. Get the 1.8 liter engine and the base trim with the power package. It gives you every thing you need. its fun, sporty, and practicle. With a new baby, everything fits in easily. strollers, pack and plays, ... everything. And at the end of the day. its a toyota. In five years... you'll probably get half of what you paid for it in a traid. That allows you to easily move up the car food chain with each toyota purchase.

Everything is really enjoyable, only minor complaint is a little road noise and feel through the floor. Love it so far...