2003 Toyota Matrix XR review from North America
"Good looking, dependable and a reliable bargain"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Navigation stopped working after 3 years.
Battery very weak after 4.5 years.
Display lights on dash (speedo, gauges, etc.) are dark red on a black background - nearly impossible to read in daylight.
General comments?
Great gas mileage; on one R/T trip from Huntington Beach to San Diego, it got 41.3 mpg. Normal is about 32. Use cruise control everywhere all the time, and keep freeway speed at about 55 mph.
However, 130 ponies are a bit on the weak side at times.
Lots of head and elbow room. Navigation (no longer available in Matrix) is wonderful - wouldn't be with out one in the future.
Recommended reviews
| Near perfect for my needs and uses |
| Stylish miniature SUV with hidden problem |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 2003 |
| Year of manufacture | 2002 |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.3 gasoline Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 57400 miles |
| Previous car | Toyota Corolla |
| Date of Entry | 29th March, 2007 |