Name: 2004 Toyota Matrix
Brand: Toyota

Toyota Matrix

RECALL ALERT: There are 8 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 8 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

Owner Reports

Worse Better

Owner Satisfaction Owner Satisfaction

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

Driving Experience

Comfort

Value

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Toyota vs. Other New Car Brands

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2004 Compact cars Ratings

2004 Toyota Matrix

$4,000 - $4,850

CR MPG:

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser

$2,800 - $3,025

CR MPG:

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2004 Hyundai Accent

$2,850 - $3,025

CR MPG:

Road test

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Owner Satisfaction

2004 Hyundai Elantra

$3,100 - $3,175

CR MPG:

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Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2004 Kia Rio

$2,875 - $2,925

CR MPG:

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2004 Lexus IS

$ NA

CR MPG:

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2004 Mazda 3

$3,200 - $3,925

CR MPG:

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2004 Pontiac Vibe

$3,700 - $4,100

CR MPG:

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2004 Scion xA

$3,075

CR MPG:

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2004 Scion xB

$3,600

CR MPG:

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2004 Subaru Impreza

$3,100 - $10,975

CR MPG:

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2004 Volkswagen Golf

$3,375 - $9,475

CR MPG:

Road test

Reliability

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Seating

2 front, 3 rear

Drive Wheels

AWD, Front

Warranty

Coverage varies among versions of this vehicle

In most cases, automotive warranties are based on the vehicle identification number (VIN), and the warranty will be valid regardless of ownership. The dealership can tell you exactly how much warranty is left.

Read more about extended warranties

wagon

5-speed Manual
4-speed Automatic
6-speed Manual

1.8-liter 4 (130 hp)
1.8-liter 4 (118 hp)
1.8-liter 4 (170 hp)

Model History

2009-

Current Generation

More powerful engines made the Matrix's 2009 redesign feel more eager to drive. We measured an impressive 27 mpg overall from the optional 2.4-liter four-cylinder; all-wheel-drive remained an option. This tall hatchback has more passenger and cargo space than most competitors, and the high roof eases entry and exit. Folding the rear seats and the front passenger seat lets you haul extra-long cargo. However, the car falls short on refinement, with an unsettled ride on the highway, pronounced wind and engine noise, and a cheap-feeling interior. Hard plastic lining the cargo area lets small items slide around and rear visibility is pinched. The addition of a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel helped the previously awkward driving position, but the wheel doesn't adjust enough to suit everyone. Stability control was standard from 2010 on. 2013 closed out the Matrix.

2003-2008

2003 Redesign Year

Practical and reliable, the Matrix is a Corolla-based small wagon available with either front- or all-wheel drive. Practicality reigns here, with very easy access, a roomy rear seat and a large and flat load floor, once the rear seats are folded. Performance is modest from the standard 1.8-liter four-cylinder, which drones loudly under acceleration. XRS models use a more powerful engine, but you need to use the six-speed manual transmission to rev the engine hard to wring out its power. Handling is fairly nimble, and the ride is compliant if a little jittery. The optional AWD system works well, but hurts acceleration and fuel economy. Limited left foot room and a long reach to the steering wheel combine to hurt the driving position. Stability control was a rare option through the years.

Toyota Matrix

2004 Wagons Reliability

Crash and Rollover Tests

Crash and Rollover Tests

Toyota vs. Other New Car Brands

Owner Reports

Toyota vs. Other New Car Brands

Toyota vs. Other New Car Brands

Crash and Rollover Tests

2004 Compact cars Ratings