2006 Toyota Matrix from North America

Summary:

The Matrix is a great, basic reliable car that won't cost you a fortune in repairs

Faults:

Electronic Control Module was replaced just under 100,000 km (warranty).

Intake gasket leak at 150,000 km (replaced under extended warranty).

General Comments:

Overall this car is great value for the money. I bought it used (2 years old with just over 50,000 km) so I put Toyota's extended warranty on it. Other than regular maintenance and the 2 issues I listed, no problems with the vehicle.

The extra room you get in the back is great for a car this size. I brought a new dishwasher home as it slid easily in the back with the rear seats folded down. Plenty of room for the kids in the back seats, and no issues with space for adults in the front (I am 6').

The ride is a bit rough as far as suspension goes, but overall this is a great basic vehicle that should last you for years. If I don't give in to my temptation to buy a truck, I expect another 150K out of this car.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 11th November, 2012

2006 Toyota Matrix from North America

Summary:

Reliable, good mileage, safe, and comfortable - what more could you ask for?

Faults:

So far so good, no signs of any impending issues.

General Comments:

I bought this car to replace my faithful but falling apart Mercury Villager. I loved that Villager, it saw me through college, but it was barely road worthy and time to move on. I never thought I'd love another car, but the Matrix proved me wrong.

It's smooth ride, comfortable and quiet. I worried buying a used car (4 years old when I got it) but it had low mileage, and it was a one owner off lease, so I took a leap of faith.

I've been driving it for six months and have had absolutely no trouble. If I had to make one complaint, I would (grudgingly) admit that the engine is a little loud on the highway, but I can cover that by turning up the radio. Gas mileage isn't the greatest (500km/tank ~ 47.00 to fill) but beats my old van hands down. (400km/tank ~65.00 to fill).

I don't care what they say about Toyota. They are a reliable brand that makes great cars, and I would not hesitate to buy another.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 20th October, 2010

2006 Toyota Matrix XR 1.8 from North America

Summary:

Great little wagon

Faults:

Cable for sunroof made noise, was fixed under warranty.

General Comments:

The car still does not have many miles on it yet, but it has been easy to own. Light and nimble around town, but is very comfortable on long haul trips.

In city driving I get 35 mpg. Highway driving I get 48, I even got it as high as 52mpg coming back from a trip to Utah, doing 70mph.

The inside is huge and holds all my camping, and biking stuff.

The 1.8 revs freely, now that it uses a K&N air filter.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 31st August, 2010

2006 Toyota Matrix XRS from North America

Summary:

Love it!

Faults:

Tail light leaked -- no hassle, dealership replacement.

General Comments:

Not quite the acceleration of the Honda, but still plenty of power for crazy city driving.

Handles very well, even on wet roads.

Wonderfully comfortable on road trips, and passenger seats lays back almost flat for sleeping.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 29th April, 2007

2006 Toyota Matrix XR 1.8L Gas from North America

Summary:

Versatile, economical, all-rounder

Faults:

Nothing went wrong.

General Comments:

Versatile, Economical, all-rounder!

I am over six feet tall and wanted a small car that could feel like a mid-size car and this is it.

Getting in and out is very easy whether getting in the front or rear seats.

The car has two very different gas mileages.

Without A/C it will get close to 29 MPG, but with its closer to 26 MPG in city traffic.

The small engine is a bit loud when challenged, but responds well.

The cabin is a little noisy on the Highway, but drowns out when the stereo is turned on.

The hatch is very versatile and easy to operate.

Rear room is moderate, but gets large when the rear seats are folded down.

This car is great for around town, but a bit tiresome on long distance rides.

This vehicle is great for delivery business around town, but also an excellent choice for your everyday around town life.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 19th February, 2007