Toyota Matrix History

Introduction

The Matrix, or the Corolla Matrix as it is officially referred to, was one of Toyota’s first ventures into what that Japanese automaker calls the crossover utility vehicle, or CUV, segment. The bold sport wagon was in production for just a decade, but in its relatively brief life, the Matrix helped Toyota attract young car-buyers to the nameplate through its innovative styling and notable affordability.

Early History

The Toyota Matrix was first introduced in 2002 for the 2003 model year, and was actually the product of a joint venture between Toyota and General Motors. The Matrix was essentially identical to its American cousin the Pontiac Vibe, but each automaker opted to cover their respective models in different sheet metal.

Toyota would give the Matrix a slight facelift in 2005 and would redesign the CUV completely in 2009 when the Corolla entered its tenth generation. At the time, the redesigned Matrix that was unveiled at the 2008 SEMA Show in Las Vegas was actually thought to be a different vehicle entirely; one that would be sold as the Toyota Blade, but Toyota stuck with the Matrix.

Recent History

As the Toyota Matrix approached a redesign along with the Corolla, Toyota opted to discontinue the nameplate. On August 5, 2013, Toyota announced that it would end production of its sporty CUV, effectively making that 2013 Matrix the final in its line.

Awards

Highest Retained Value in its class by IntelliChoice in 2012
SmartChoice Ownership Costs winner by IntelliChoice in 2012
Best Overall Value of the Year by IntelliChoice in 2012
Cars.com Editor’s Choice for First-Time Drivers in 2010