why ads?

Popular at KBB.com

The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2007 Toyota Matrix

Please enter a valid mileage

View all 2 photos

Curious about the newer model? Check out the 2013 Toyota Matrix

Overview

Trading in or Selling? Know where you stand with the most up-to-date Kelley Blue Book Value at your fingertips. See your car's value

Buying this car?

2007 Toyota Matrix Review

By KBB.com Editors

Once considered revolutionary, the Toyota Matrix is now joined by a fleet of competitors attempting to copy the little wagon's combination of versatility and sporty good looks. Copy-cats may better be able to compete now that Toyota has discontinued the Matrix's high-output 16-valve engine and optional all-wheel drive. Then again, few rivals can match the Matrix's outstanding quality and customer satisfaction ratings, not to mention its terrific resale value. Holding strong appeal with teenagers bent on customizing every inch of their cars, the Matrix's radical exterior is complimented by its highly versatile interior, which includes eye-catching glowing red gauges, a hard plastic cargo floor and a 115-volt outlet.

You'll Like This Car If...

If you're on an economy-car budget, but you want something sporty and versatile, the Matrix deserves a good long look.

You May Not Like This Car If...

The four-cylinder engine has to rev high to make the most of its power, and some buyers might not be comfortable with that. With the loss of all-wheel drive, the Matrix has little advantage over newer, more powerful five-door models such as the Mazda Mazda3 and Volkswagen Rabbit.

What's Significant About This Car?

The sporty XRS trim has been discontinued, as has the all-wheel-drive option.

Driving the Matrix

Driving Impressions The competent 1.8-liter engine can move the Matrix with ease, though you will have to keep the revs high in the rpm band to get the most of the engine's...

power. The standard five-speed manual transmission is the most helpful for this task, though you can opt for the four-speed automatic if you're not enamored with rowing your own gears.

The Matrix's precise steering feel makes it easy to get around curves with confidence, and the firm suspension displays good cornering ability without a punishing ride. Interior sound levels are higher than one might expect, but not annoyingly so. Besides, we suspect most younger drivers will never hear the din over the optional JBL Audio system.

Favorite Features

115-Volt Outlet
The 115-volt outlet on the XR's dash should be standard in every car.

JBL Audio w/ Kicker Sub Woofer
If you like your music loud and your bass thumping, this system is sure to please.

2007 Toyota Matrix Details

Interior

Look inside the Matrix and you'll find a detailed interior that blends black cloth, chrome trim rings and brushed aluminum into pure automotive art. Gauges are housed in four deeply-recessed binnacles that are constantly backlit in a deep red glow. You'll find the Matrix's seating to be firm and comfortable, with a height-adjustable driver's seat on the XR trim. The roomy rear seat sits up high, affording passengers more legroom as well as a good view forward. When not loaded with passengers, the Matrix's seats can be folded flat to create a rather roomy 53 cubic feet of cargo area. Laptop junkies will love the two-prong 115-volt outlet standard on the XR.

Exterior

The Matrix is based on the Corolla platform and shares its chassis and powertrain with the Pontiac Vibe. The Matrix is a bit more futuristic in appearance than the Vibe, with flared ground effects panels, sweptback headlamps and a narrow rear window. The sweeping rear beltline makes for narrow rear side windows that can hinder a driver's ability to see small objects that may be close to the rear wheels. The large hatchback makes it easy to load the cargo hold and, on the XR trim level, includes a rear wiper/washer. A number of aftermarket parts, both from Toyota and external suppliers, make it easy to customize the Matrix without having to spend a small fortune.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

The Matrix includes a 126-horsepower engine, five-speed manual transmission, air conditioning, rear defroster, front and rear cup holders, illuminated entry, dual remote control mirrors, AM/FM stereo with CD, tilt wheel, tachometer, cargo cover and full wheel covers. The XR adds power mirrors, 115-volt outlet, power windows, power locks, remote keyless entry and a rear wiper/washer.

Optional Equipment

Options include cruise control, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), front side-impact airbags, power glass moonroof, four-speed automatic transmission, auto-dimming rearview mirror, alarm, rear wiper/washer, anti-lock brakes (ABS), JBL audio and a number of dealer installed security and protection packages.

Under the Hood

The high-reving four-cylinder is peppy and fuel-efficient—exactly what most buyers are looking for. Although not big on torque, the 1.8-liter can move the Matrix with ease, so long as the car is not loaded with passengers or climbing steep hills.

1.8-liter in-line 4
126 horsepower @ 6000 rpm
122 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4200 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 30/36 (manual), 29/34 (automatic)

To compare current market prices, check out KBB.com's car classifieds to view the new and used Toyota Matrix vehicles for sale near you.

Trading in or Selling? Know where you stand with the most up-to-date Kelley Blue Book Value at your fingertips. See your car's value

Buying this car?

2007 Toyota Matrix Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

8.8

Out of 10

Based on 483 Ratings for the 2003 - 2008 models.

Review this car

Value

9.1/10

Quality

8.9/10
Reliability

9.2/10

Performance

8.8/10
Comfort

8.7/10

Styling

9.0/10

Great, reliable car!

By Lori (IA) on Friday, June 14, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 119,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "28-30 mph, reliable"

Cons: "over 100,000 miles, no automatic doors/windows"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Would have kept driving the car, except I recently inherited a new vehicle. Almost hate to part with the Toyota, regardless. It's got a few dents and dings, but is in good condition otherwise."

Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse

I just love this car!

By crod936 (CA) on Wednesday, June 12, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 77,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 8/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Everything that I wished for"

Cons: "steering wheel position"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I bought this car almost 6.5 yrs ago because I had close friends that had owned theirs for at least 3 years with no issues and were still happy with it, I was in the market for something reliable, comfortable, convenient, low budget, fun and that looked good. So my wishlist seemed impossible with the first vehicles I checked out, I was leaning towards imports since majority of vehicles I had owned that were domestic burnt a whole in my pocket, until I bought this car I was trading my car on average every 18 months or sometimes less. I went through 2 Ford Rangers, Oldsmobile Cutlass, Ford Mustang, Audi A4, Dodge Dakota, Toyota Corolla and a Pontiac Grand Am between '99-'06. Sadly the only car that I didn't throw my money away on was the Corolla, all the others needed plenty of maintenance or the price tag was just too high. I bought this brand new from a local dealer where I continue to do business with after visiting other Toyota dealers where they just pushed me out the door with their crooked business mentality. Went for the M-Theory Manual T and I don't regret it one bit, I spent a bit more for the extras but I've used everything that this car has to offer, I love driving near and far and this vehicle has not let me down a single time. This Matrix has been to 42 US states, up to Canada and down to Mexico with only the battery been replace after 30k covered under warranty. I can honestly say that I've never put any money besides buying a bigger size chromed rims for it. The only negatives for it are the steering wheel only tilts and the audio system is not the best but I've just never been able to replace the factory stereo. Every time I've thought about it I just can't seem to part with it. I'm too attached to this car, it's taking very good care of me and my family. I can say this is the best investment I've made when it comes to cars. I still get an average of 29mpg, the engine feels strong and the driving experience is still pretty fun, I just wish it was all wheel drive, besides that there is nothing else I can ask for. Drives great in any terrain, never been stuck so far and it's been through some rough roads. Other cars may seem like a better option but in the long run I don't think any car in this price range can beat it."

Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse

TEN YEARS - ZERO PROBLEMS

By Sofi (IL) on Wednesday, June 05, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 129,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "style, durability, economy, huge cargo space"

Cons: "one more cupholder wouldn't hurt"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I own this car for 10 years today, and I never had a problem with it. I liked it when I bought it, I love it today, and I will buy another Matrix when this one expires- I hope to keep it for some years yet. Other than regular maintenance (oil changes, fluids, wipers) and tires and brakes every 50K miles and the 100K maintenance service, she never needed special attention or expense. I have hauled tons of stuff over the years in the cargo space, and I took quite a few trips, without worry. My Matrix has no ABS, but as long as the tires are good, the braking is swift, smooth and efficient. There is no lighter and no ashtrays, but there are 2 separate outlets, plus a 110v outlet. The exterior is still bright and shinny after all these years (when I wash it, that is). The AC will need re-charging this year, as it does not blow as cold as it used to, but I guess that can be considered maintenance. Overall, I am very happy with this car and I would recommend it to anyone."

Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse

I hate power locks and windows

By Rattlesnake (ME) on Tuesday, June 04, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 134,300

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Seats are comfortable. Car is trustworthy"

Cons: "I do not need quarter slots. They get dirty."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I was shocked to find out that new clients are now being coerced to buy power locks and windows when they get a new car. I was also shocked when the dealerships started sending me letters asking to buy my car. I love my crank-up windows that work without the car key to turn the engine on and I love the manual locks. I am not giving this one up, not ever and if they are in demand the factories should start making them again."

Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse

Bought, but planned to sell. Best investment.

By Katrina (PA) on Friday, May 31, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 125,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 7/10
Styling: 8/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Excellent gas mileage"

Cons: "Doesn't accelerate very quickly (4cyl)"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I bought this car knowing I would either a) keep it forever and ever, or b) sell it in a few years. I did my homework when buying this car and chose it because of it's: 1) Low VOC's after baking in the hot sun for days/hours. It never stank like plastic. 2) Reliability. It never broke down. WHen a tire started to leak, it alerted me. 3) Resale value. I kept it very clean. I owe $5000 on it. It's worth $8700 on KBB. Yessssssss 4) It's a good looking car. I don't feel frumpy- I feel cool, and know I'm safe at the same time. 5) I may never buy another car in all y life."

Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse