Based on the Toyota Corolla, the Matrix offers seating for five, a large trunk, a choice of 4-cylinder engines, optional all-wheel-drive, and good handling.

All-new for the 2003 model year, the Matrix is what Toyota calls a "Street Performance Utility". We call it a compact crossover utility, i.e. a taller version of the Toyota Corolla that offers more interior and trunk space. Despite that, the Toyota Matrix manages to be quite sporty, thanks to an optional high-strung 1.8-liter 4-cylinder shared with the Celica coupe.