2003 Toyota Matrix review from North America
"Good fuel economy, but the remaining aspects of the short lived ownership were disappointing."
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Replaced the AM/FM/CD player three times in a 7 month duration due to various malfunctions with the CD player.
Had to replace "on board" computer to remedy frequent stalling episodes.
Interior trim is very "unforgiving" as the dash and door trim components are extremely susceptible to scratches. Additionally, the paint on a plastic component wore right off prematurely, and on an other component exhibited unexpected fading.
An unpleasant odor, not unlike the smell of burning rubber, was emmitted from engine during slightly extended periods of high rpm - such as when spinning tires in snow.
General comments?
I was intrigued with the design concept of this vehicle, (sport utility/station wagon), but I should have heeded my own advice about avoiding the purchase of any vehicle in it's first model year.
Although Toyota has a fairly established record for manufacturing quality vehicles, I suspect that the vehicles built in Japan offer better quality and value.
Recommended reviews
| Near perfect for my needs and uses |
|
| Stylish miniature SUV with hidden problem |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Year of manufacture | 2003 |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.9 litre Manual |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 7 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 26 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 30200 kilometres |
| Previous car | Audi 200 |
| Date of Entry | 9th April, 2004 |