The Good
The 2009 Toyota Matrix excels in reliability and fuel efficiency, appealing to practical buyers. Its hatchback design offers versatility for cargo. The sporty XRS trim provides a more engaging driving experience, satisfying emotional desires for fun. It's a comfortable and affordable option for those seeking a dependable and versatile vehicle.
The Bad
The 2009 Toyota Matrix can suffer from excessive oil consumption, especially in later years. Some owners have reported issues with the water pump and mass airflow sensor. The interior materials can feel cheap, and the base engine can feel underpowered, especially when fully loaded. Rust can be an issue in colder climates.
2009 Toyota Matrix: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 1.8L Inline-4 (1ZZ-FE): Base and XR models
- 2.4L Inline-4 (2AZ-FE): XRS model
- Horsepower:
- 1.8L: 132 hp
- 2.4L: 158 hp
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimates):
- 1.8L: 25 city / 31 highway mpg (Manual), 26 city / 32 highway mpg (Automatic)
- 2.4L: 21 city / 28 highway mpg (Automatic)
- 0-60 Times:
- 1.8L: Around 9.5-10 seconds
- 2.4L: Around 8-8.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or officially rated for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Standard features include air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a basic audio system.
- XR: Adds features like upgraded cloth upholstery, cruise control, and alloy wheels.
- XRS: Includes the 2.4L engine, sport-tuned suspension, unique exterior styling, and upgraded interior trim. It can include options such as sunroof, premium audio.
2009 Toyota Matrix Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2009 |
| Make | Toyota |
| Model | Matrix |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Small Station Wagon |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Canada |
| Manufacturing City | CAMBRIDGE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 1524.07 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 155.96 cm |
| Overall Length | 436.63 cm |
| Overall Width | 176.53 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 260.1 cm |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 1.8-L I4 |
| Engine Size | 1.8L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $20,500 USD |
| Invoice Price | $18,553 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $720 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2009 Toyota Matrix Have?
Long-term reliability concerns include rust, especially in areas with road salt. The suspension components, such as struts and shocks, may need replacement over time, depending on driving conditions and mileage. While Toyota generally has a good reputation for reliability, the 2009 Matrix is not without its potential issues, and a thorough inspection is recommended before purchasing a used model. Checking the vehicle's history for recalls and past repairs is also crucial.
How long will the 2009 Toyota Matrix last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features included standard front airbags, side airbags, and anti-lock brakes (ABS). Electronic Stability Control (ESC) was also available. Optional features included a sunroof and keyless entry.
Crash test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) were generally good. The IIHS gave the 2009 Matrix a "Good" rating in frontal offset and side impact tests. NHTSA gave it 4 out of 5 stars in frontal crash tests and 5 out of 5 stars in side crash tests. These ratings should be verified with the specific agency directly for accuracy, though. Overall, the 2009 Matrix prioritized basic safety and entertainment over cutting-edge technology.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2009 Toyota Matrix Prices and Market Value
2009 Toyota Matrix Cost of Ownership
2009 Toyota Matrix Fuel Efficiency
2009 Toyota Matrix Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2009 Toyota Matrix Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2009 Toyota Matrix Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2009 Toyota Matrix Compare to Other Sedan?
Features were comparable across the board, with similar levels of standard and optional equipment. Price-wise, the Matrix was generally competitive, often undercutting the Civic slightly.
Alternatives to consider would be the Toyota Corolla (for similar reliability in a sedan), the Honda Fit (for more compact versatility), or the Mazda3 (for a sportier drive). The Pontiac Vibe is a very similar alternative and might be available at a lower price, assuming it has been well-maintained. The Scion xB also offers a similar boxy versatility with Toyota reliability. All depends on individual priorities.
Ranks #26 Wagon
| 1 | 2015 Toyota Venza | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2009 Honda Odyssey | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2024 Subaru Impreza | (4.0★) |
| 4 | 2009 Mazda CX-7 | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2023 Ford Transit Connect Wagon | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2023 Audi A6 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2021 Ram ProMaster City | (0.0★) |
| 8 | 2019 Volvo V60 | (5.0★) |
| 9 | 2015 Scion xB | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2010 Volkswagen Passat | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2008 Pontiac Vibe | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2006 Land Rover Range Rover | (0.0★) |
| 26 | 2009 Toyota Matrix | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2009 Toyota Matrix a Good Sedan?
Josh on June 2, 2024
Great car drive and also great to haul just aboutGreat car drive and also great to haul just about anything Small to mid sized since the back seats fold all the way down. And it gets good Gas MPG as well.
Calvin on January 4, 2024
WATCH OUT FOR THE 2.4LWATCH OUT!! The 2009 Matrix with the 2.4L i4 (2AZ FE) was assembled with bad piston rings that will cause excessive oil consumption, some owners reporting multiple quarts every 1-2k miles. Toyota did a limited service bulletin (TSB T-SB-0030-15) but not all of the engines have been rebuilt. If buying a 2009 Toyota with the 2.4L 2AZ FE, make sure this rebuild has been completed!
Ray Almond on April 22, 2022
Hidden gem hatchbackVery great car, reliable, roomy, practical, sporty, specially if u get s or xrs 2.4 l engine. No power steering fluid, this model is electronic power steering.😎 got 2007 xr 1.8 and 2009 s 2.4
BAD DADDY on March 20, 2022
WHERE is the POWER STEERING RESIVOR LOCATED?I could NOT find the POWER STIEERING RESIVOR bottle??? WHERE is the POWER STEERING RESIVOR LOCATED? Does ANYONE know where to find this Power steering is located at??? WHERE is the POWER STEERING RESIVOR LOCATED?
dav on October 4, 2020
relable carThis is a very clean and healthy 2009 Toyota Matrix with a clean title .137413 miles.Runs and drives really good . toyota matrix toyoota corrola
Treasa63 on September 1, 2020
Love my MatrixThis is my 2nd Matrix and I love it. Perfect style and size for me. I was going to go with the Prius but this was available
BPitt on March 6, 2020
Great Little Hot HatchbackI've owned my 2009 Matrix XRS since 2008 and it has been a great & reliable car that has only required regular maintenance to keep it going. I get 28-30mpg on the highway and even though I am 6'3", I am very comfortable in the driver's seat. My one complaint is the high performance tires that come on the XRS trimline are expensive and wear out much more quickly than the recommended ~40-50K mile range. I've driven my Matrix 108K miles and plan on keeping it for much much longer.
JasminB on May 10, 2019
Love this car!This car is perfect for college students or new drivers. Super easy to drive. Yet still fits people in back seats! Able to fill tank with $30-35$. Nice trunk
Nicki’sfan on January 27, 2019
My first car and very fast and comfortable..So comfortable to drive. Stealing wheel was smooth and easier to turn. Very nice and Affordable car. I will recommend anyone to buy this car because it’s really comfortable and the chairs are soft.
TV on November 17, 2018
Matrix VibeThe Matrix and Vibe are car clones. Same interior, engine, controls, etc. Not much difference between a 2005 and a 2009. But all are good cars.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.