Practical and economical, the Matrix has easy cabin access, a roomy rear seat, and good cargo versatility. The 1.8-liter base engine has adequate power and gets an impressive 29 mpg overall, and the 158-hp, 2.4-liter engine improves acceleration and returns 27 mpg overall. Engine and road-noise levels are high for both. The ride is absorbent but a bit unsettled. The Matrix isn't engaging to drive, but handling is responsive enough, and it's secure overall. The driving position is awkward, and fit and finish is unimpressive.
A subscription to ConsumerReports.org includes Consumer Reports road test reports (based on over 50 different tests).
Toyota Blog Content
New York Auto Show: New Toyota Highlander has tough act to follow
All Toyota had to do with their redesigned 2014 Highlander is to top the current Highlander, our 2013 Top Pick Midsized SUV. That car happens to be efficient, easy-driving, smooth-riding, quiet, and very reliable. Piece of cake, right? Turns out,...
The new Toyota RAV4 presents child-seat challenges
The new Toyota RAV4 is practical, fuel efficient, spacious, and, overall, a really easy car to live with. But there's one thing that is unexpectedly complicated: child seat installations. We install child restraints into every vehicle we test to see...
Beyond turbos, what car technology works to boost mpg?
The past few years have shown dramatic fuel economy improvements in all types of cars in our testing. Rather than exotic technology, such as hybrids and vehicle electrification, most of the improvements have come the old-fashioned way: through conventional technologies...
Best used cars for under $15,000
Buying a used car can be a great way to save money. The trick is to find a not only a good deal, but a good car—one that will be safe, reliable, and enjoyable for years. Our picks for the...
The disappointing dozen: Cars that fail our tests
The Consumer Reports Annual Autos Issue is a great resource for researching the best cars. Flip through the magazine or tour the website, and it is clear there are many great choices. However, just as there are many good cars...






