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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2008 Toyota Matrix

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

Overview

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2008 Toyota Matrix Review

By KBB.com Editors

Once considered revolutionary, the 2008 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 simplified the model lineup, but an all-new Matrix is scheduled to debut in 2009, so no one should be resting on any laurels just yet. Despite its age, few rivals can match the Matrix's outstanding quality, customer satisfaction ratings and 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 2008 Toyota 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 last year's removal of its all-wheel-drive option, the Matrix has little advantage over newer, more powerful five-door models such as the Mazda MAZDA3 and Volkswagen Rabbit.

What's New for 2008

The 2008 Matrix carries over largely unchanged.

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, although the optional four-speed automatic simplifies the driving. 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.

2008 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 2008 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 and front and rear side-curtain 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: 26/33 (manual), 25/31 (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

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2008 Toyota Matrix Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

8.7

Out of 10

Based on 477 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

nice car,98000 mi. purchased new, no problems,

By japl1111 (CT) on Sunday, May 19, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 98,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

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

Pros: "gas mileage price no big repairs"

Cons: "tire noise"

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

"nice car,98000 mi. purchased new, no problems,great run around car..good mileage,changed oil every 5000 miles,flop tires every 10000."

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If your looking for more than a Corolla...

By Lexus Anyone? (CA) on Thursday, May 16, 2013

I owned and sold this car
Reason: extra vehicle - no longer needed - My approximate mileage is 69,995

10 8.0

overall rating 8 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

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

Pros: "gas mileage, options, reliability."

Cons: "Slow accel to freeway speeds sluggish transmission"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 8

"Good on gas, reliable. It is not the fastest car on the road, but it gets you from A to B on without trouble. Keep it maintained and it will last a long time!"

2 people out of 2 found this review helpful

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Best car I've ever owned!

By Ed (CA) on Monday, April 15, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 106,000

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: 8/10

Pros: "Good price, very versatile."

Cons: "None"

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

"Better than listed mpg... 28/40, over the last 9 years. Extremely useful flat floor in cargo area, comfortable enough on long trips, great sound system, great visibility, reliable, and safe. Saved my bacon in an accordion accident where I was hit multiple times. Now in the process of looking for a new one."

3 people out of 3 found this review helpful

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Best cara ever - highly recommend

By Susie (LA) on Saturday, April 13, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 29,000

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: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Fun to drive; handles easily; Looks good"

Cons: "No automatic door locks"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 8

"I would highly recommend this car to anyone and any age. I am 75 and love this car. This is the first small car I have owned - wouldn't trade it for anything else now. Holds 5 adults comfortably."

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Best car ever owned! Most reliable!

By Shannon (MA) on Wednesday, April 10, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 152,000

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: 9/10
Comfort: 8/10

Pros: "gas mileage, hatchback, reliability"

Cons: "bumpy ride"

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

"Bought my car used 3.5 yrs ago, and put 80,000 miles on it since. Only normal maintenance stuff...brakes, serpentine belt etc. Always starts! I love all it's little amenities...like my regular wall outlet in addition to the cig lighter one, the daytime running lights, and power everything. I love the hatchback and folding seats. Who needs a truck when you can throw any furniture, lumber...whatever you need in your car? The only thing I would say is it really isn't a super comfortable ride, but then again I drive a ton, and it is an economy car. Would buy again! I can't wait for my next one...with 4wd!"

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Love it! Would buy again.

By kensiep (CA) on Sunday, April 07, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 69,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

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

Pros: "Gas mileage, exterior, interior, value"

Cons: "no aux plug in"

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

"Bought my car used 2 years ago from Oregon and it has been worth every penny, even the cost to ship. Upgraded from a honda civic coupe. I am a student that commutes and I am also a nanny so I need great gas mileage and great indoor room for car seats, backpacks, bags of soccer balls, etc. It has awesome power to get on the freeway and get up to speed quickly which I love. It is everything I need (and more) and super affordable (hasn't needed any extra maintenance besides the regular oil change and such) LOVE LOVE LOVE IT. I also get so many compliments on how "cute" it is. Recommended to many people and some have began their search to buy one of their own."

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See all 477 reviews