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2008 Toyota Matrix Features Review

October 30, 2008

FEATURES | 6 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

important features like ABS and side airbags remain optional
Edmunds

the 115-volt outlet…should be standard in every car
Kelley Blue Book

High headroom and flexible seating
Cars.com

The 2008 Toyota Matrix impresses with convenience and utility, but it’s lower on the ladder of fun features and gadgets.

The Matrix comes in two trims levels: base and XR. To the base models’ slim list of equipment (16-inch steel wheels, air conditioning, and a CD player), the XR adds such items as keyless entry, a 115-volt power outlet, and body-color door handles. Optional on both models are cruise control, an alarm system, rear-seat heater ducts, and alloy wheels (either 16 or 17 inches for the XR). The XR can also be upgraded to include a moonroof and a JBL audio system with an in-dash CD changer.

“Those who carry cargo will find that the Matrix functions much like a small SUV,” asserts Edmunds. They and others appreciate the wide-opening hatch with separately opening glass, easy-to-clean plastic flooring in the cargo area, eight adjustable tie-down hooks, and 60/40 split-folding seats that expand the cargo area to a capacious 53 cubic feet.

Among its favorite features on the Matrix, Kelley Blue Book feels “the 115-volt outlet on the XR's dash should be standard in every car,” and advises “if you like your music loud and your bass thumping,” the optional JBL Audio w/Kicker Sub Woofer “is sure to please.” They point out that “a number of aftermarket parts, both from Toyota and external suppliers, make it easy to customize the Matrix without having to spend a small fortune.”

Modern entertainment options such as satellite radio or an iPod interface aren’t available as factory options; neither is a navigation system or Bluetooth.

Conclusion

The 2008 Toyota Matrix lacks the kind of cutting-edge features that appeal to its likely buyers.

FEATURES | 6 out of 10Expert Quotes:important features like ABS and side airbags remain optionalEdmundsthe 115-volt outlet…should be standard in every carKelley Blue BookHigh headroom and flexible seatingCars.com The 2008 Toyota Matrix impresses with convenience and utility, but it’s lower on the ladder of fun features and gadgets. The Matrix comes in two trims levels: base and XR. To the base models’ slim list of equipment (16-inch steel wheels, air conditioning, and a CD player), the XR adds such items as keyless entry, a 115-volt power outlet, and body-color door handles. Optional on both models are cruise control, an alarm system, rear-seat heater ducts, and alloy wheels (either 16 or 17 inches for the XR). The XR can also be upgraded to include a moonroof and a JBL audio system with an in-dash CD changer. “Those who carry cargo will find that the Matrix functions much like a small SUV,” asserts Edmunds. They and others appreciate the wide-opening hatch with separately opening glass, easy-to-clean plastic flooring in the cargo area, eight adjustable tie-down hooks, and 60/40 split-folding seats that expand the cargo area to a capacious 53 cubic feet. Among its favorite features on the Matrix, Kelley Blue Book feels “the 115-volt outlet on the XR's dash should be standard in every car,” and advises “if you like your music loud and your bass thumping,” the optional JBL Audio w/Kicker Sub Woofer “is sure to please.” They point out that “a number of aftermarket parts, both from Toyota and external suppliers, make it easy to customize the Matrix without having to spend a small fortune.” Modern entertainment options such as satellite radio or an iPod interface aren’t available as factory options; neither is a navigation system or Bluetooth. ConclusionThe 2008 Toyota Matrix lacks the kind of cutting-edge features that appeal to its likely buyers. 2008 TOYOTA MATRIX STYLING | [6 out of 10] Kelley Blue Book: “radical exterior” Car and Driver: “urban people-mover look” Motor Trend: “styling is a bit long in the tooth” The 2008 Toyota Matrix is a tall-wagon (or so-called crossover) model that’s closely related to the Pontiac ...

Read More of this Review:

  1. styling
  2. performance
  3. quality
  4. safety
  5. features

Other Choices:

The Matrix remains very attractive for its combination of roomy interior, versatile cargo space, and fuel efficiency, while its city-friendly size broadens its appeal. Aside from the nearly identical Pontiac Vibe, the Scion xB is another vehicle with trusty Toyota mechanicals; it affords an impressive amount of space, while offering fuel efficiency that’s almost as good as the Vibe and Matrix. Also, the Kia Spectra5 is an economical five-door hatchback model that’s definitely more fun to drive than the 2008 Toyota Matrix, though it might not be as spacious inside. The Dodge Caliber is another distinctive-looking possibility; it offers some impressive features, such as tailgate speakers, but it has a rather loud interior and isn’t as comfortable inside. And if you’re willing to go up a little bit in size, the Subaru Forester might fit your needs. It’s more of a sport-utility vehicle, but it’s the small SUV with the most carlike driving position, and it’s one of the best-handling and easiest to park among them.

Next Steps:

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See the Toyota Matrix in Other Years:

2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003

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