The 2008 Toyota Matrix is a compact wagon that’s ideal for young families and recent college graduates. It seats five passengers comfortably and the wagon body style allows for a large amount cargo room in the trunk. The second row seats also fold flat to expand cargo room even further. The 2008 Matrix is very fuel-efficient and offers a sporty alternative to the common compact sedan. It comes in several trim levels and has various optional features that allow customers to find a unique Matrix to make their own. It also has available all-wheel drive. Moreover, the 2008 Matrix is backed by the legendary Toyota reputation rooted in quality, reliability, and longevity. Most Toyotas require very little maintenance before 100,000 miles, and the 2008 Matrix is no different. The 2008 Toyota Matrix is an affordable, entry-level vehicle that offers an alternative to the common compact sedan. Its compact wagon body style offers more cargo versatility than other cars in its class. The 2008 Toyota Matrix is a fuel efficient, stylish, and versatile compact vehicle that comes standard with Toyota quality.
The Range
Body Styles: compact wagon
Engines: 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine
Transmissions: five-speed manual, four-speed automatic
Models: Base, S, XR, AWD
What's New
No significant upgrades are seen in the 2008 Toyota Matrix when compared to the 2007 model year.
Exterior
The 2008 Toyota Matrix’s measurements are 69.9 inches wide, 61.6 inches tall, and 171.3 inches long. The front track is 59.6, and rear track is 58.9 inches. The wheelbase is 102.4 inches. Some drivers felt that the choice of exterior colors were too limited. They also mentioned that it was hard to see out of the rear window while driving. Overall, customers were happy with the car’s exterior. It offers a sporty hatchback style that is much more aesthetically pleasing than other compact sedan counterparts.
Interior
The 2008 Toyota Matrix car comes in three trims: base, S, and XR. The base trim includes the standard steel wheels and CD player, while the XR trim has the keyless entry and additional upgrades you can order at your dealership. Both trims have the alarm system and rear heater ducts. Other interior features include a dashboard light, climate control, a spacious cargo section, and an audio player.
The interior features are not overly luxurious, but enough options are available to ensure driver and passenger comfort. There are also optional entertainment features such as DVD player and a six-disc CD changer. The front head room is 40.6 inches, and front hip room is 51.7 inches. The front leg room is 41.8 inches, and front shoulder room is 53.2 inches. The rear hip room is 47.8 inches, and rear head room is 39.8 inches. The rear leg room is 36.3 inches, and rear shoulder room is 52.6 inches.
Performance & Handling
The 2008 Toyota Matrix has a 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine that rates 126 horsepower with 122 lb-ft of torque power. It also has a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission. The 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine powers the 2008 Toyota Matrix successfully and allows for increased speed. An available all-wheel-drive system allows for better handling on slick roads. The anti-lock brakes alert drivers when the tires stop rotating and the power steering also works well. Customers were also impressed with the acceleration and brakes, and they enjoyed the smooth ride in the car altogether. However, the engine can be noisy at times, and the car doesn’t perform well in snowy weather without the upgraded all-wheel-drive system.
Safety
The safety features in the 2008 Toyota Matrix include traction control, front seat side airbags, brake assist, child seat anchors, child safety locks, seat belt pre-tensioners, front and rear headrests, and daytime running lights. This car received favorable ratings on crash tests, and drivers were pleased with the safety features. This car also has anti-roll bars. Another safety feature drivers were pleased with is the child seat anchors, which are very sturdy, even on bumpy roads.
EPA Fuel Economy
Toyota Matrix: 25/31 mpg city/highway
You'll Like
- Good engine power and transmission
- Handles well on bumpy or hilly roads
You Won't Like
- Not enough space in center console
- Average-looking exterior
- Occasional engine troubles
Sum Up
An entry-level, sporty alternative to the common compact sedan and also offers many optional upgrades.
If You Like This Vehicle
- Toyota Prius
- Kia Sedona
- Honda Accord