Toyota Matrix 2010 model: Price in Nigeria (updated 2020), Specs, Interior & Engine

If sedans are known as compact and elegant vehicles, hatchbacks are actually more practical, flexible and sportier cars. Boasting sporty silhouette, a somewhat aggressive stance, and a rakish roofline, the Toyota Matrix 2010 model is one of the most popular hatchbacks in Nigeria.

You may know that Toyota has discontinued this hatch in 2013 due to its declining sales. However, Naijauto.com still brings you a comprehensive Toyota Matrix 2010 review with the hope of appeasing Matrix lovers and those who have long been waiting for the coming up of a new generation Matrix.

Fair market prices of Toyota Matrix 2010 for sale in Nigeria range from ₦1,200,000 to ₦3,300,000 depending on the condition, specifically: 

• Nigerian used Toyota Matrix 2010 prices in Nigeria: ₦1,200,000 - ₦1,950,000

• Tokunbo (foreign used) Toyota Matrix prices in Nigeria: ₦2,300,000 - ₦3,300,000

>>> Find prices of Toyota Matrix in Nigeria for all model years

>>> For an exhausted list of Toyota car prices in Nigeria, click here.

For the second generation, Toyota offers more trim levels of the Matrix for the US and Canadian markets

In this article, we will give a deep insight into the US market version Matrix with base trim level and top-spec - the Matrix S. The S edition comes equipped with more advanced technology, more standard features and also a more powerful engine. Meanwhile, the base trim has a kit of basic features that are said to be enough for your daily needs. All about the two trims will be revealed below.

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At the first glance, the Matrix gets a sporty and handsome look. The first generation is based on a crossover’s design while the second gen inherits some refinements of the Corolla with a sportier and lower appearance than its predecessor. The Matrix’s front fascia is almost no different from the Corolla. However, the sides are quite high and prominent and the rear pillar is chunky, giving it a unique look from every angle. The roof looks couple's style, which eclipses a bit of the hot hatch’s beauty. For a verdict, the Toyota Matrix boasts a sporty silhouette, an aggressive yet attractive stance and a lecherous roofline.

At first glance, the Matrix gets a sporty and handsome look

The sides are quite high and prominent and the rear pillar is chunky, giving it a unique look from every angle

>>> Here are Toyota Corolla 2010 review and prices in Nigeria for your reference.

4.1. Cabin space

Although it is well-known for its impressive exterior, it is less refined and comfortable when it comes to the Toyota Matrix 2010 interior. Still, the car is highly appreciated for its versatility and daily practicality. The Matrix is shaped as a small and classic hatch equipped with foldable rear seats.

The seats seem to provide less support for both the driver and passengers than most models in the market. In detail, the flat cushions are not very comfortable especially for those who have greater height and weight on long trips. However, for the quicker and shorter trips, the tilt/telescopic steering wheel and the seats still bring enough comfort with sufficient adjustability.

For the car seats, they seem to provide less supportive functions for both the driver and passengers than most on-market models

In the back, the rear row provides 3 seaters, but in fact, it is just enough for 2 average-sized adults. The hatch can also offer more cabin space by folding the rear seating row to house up more luggage and stuff.

The hatch also offers a spacious cabin space as it can be widened by folding the rear seating row

The interior is simple and solid with matte-metallic and hard plastic wrapped material for most parts of the dashboard. However, the feel is far from a luxurious and high-end interior although the central control layout for the driver has its own simple charm.

To be fair, the dashboard looks a bit sportier and more eye-catching than the previous model year, but its fully-covered matte-metallic and plasticky surfaces make the car look somewhat outdated, plain and drab.

The interior is simple and solid with matte-metallic and hard plastic wrapped material for most parts of the dashboard

However, when it comes to the driving experience, the Toyota Matrix 2010's center portion of the dashboard supporting and the large rotary control for climate control brings a little more adventurous driving experience compared to Toyota Corolla.

The odometer is also covered by hard plastic

4.2. Infotainment system

Bluetooth connectivity is added to the Toyota Matrix 2010's not so long list of standard features. Although the Matrix has a higher price tag than the Toyota Corolla, it seems that this stylish hatch is equipped with just basic features, and doesn’t offer so many options for the driver and passengers.

The base Toyota Matrix 2010 model has cruise control, power windows and mirrors, and air conditioning which as standard features. Meanwhile, the S trim comes with a fuller package including additional fog lamps, an upgraded sound system and keyless entry. The Matrix S is also armed with a Sport Package consisting of body skirting, a rear spoiler and 17-inch alloy wheels.

Since 2013, the base trim has been updated with an all-new sound system with audio streaming

Since 2013, the base trim has been updated with an all-new sound system with audio streaming, a six-speaker system with satellite radio, Bluetooth hands-free calling and iPod connectivity. Meanwhile, the S version has been added a 6.1-inch touchscreen.

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​5.1. Toyota Matrix 2010 Engine

The Toyota Matrix 2010 engine are different in the two trim levels. The base model gets a 1.8 L 4-cylinder engine which is capable of dishing out 132 hp, while the S version is powered by a more powerful motor - the 2.4 L with a capacity of 158 hp.

The S version runs with an all-wheel-drive powertrain, combined to a 5-speed automatic transmission, while the base 1.8 L works with a 4-speed automatic gearbox. You can also opt for 5-speed manual transmission for both trim levels.

The base model gets a 1.8 L 4-cylinder engine

5.2. Toyota Matrix 2010 Performance

Looking at the Matrix specs, one should expect better performance in handling capacity than the Corolla's. But actually, it is not very satisfactory as it has a dull and light steering wheel that doesn’t bring enjoyable experience. However, it has a bit firmer suspension than the Toyota Corolla..

Unlike other hatchbacks which come with a torsion-beam arrangement, the Toyota Matrix S version comes with a rear double-wishbone suspension setup, but it doesn’t create much more exciting feel.

But compared to other small cars, the hatchback offers a quite good ride with except for its road noise and the coarse.

Compared to other small cars, the hatchback offers a quite good ride 

Like the Toyota Prius, the Matrix also receives the fondness of Toyota as it is designed to optimize its gas mileage. However, the car is not really appreciated for its fuel economy, aerodynamics, gear ratios or weight, which is not as good as usually seen in Toyota models.

On city roads, the base trim guzzles 26 mpg and 32 mpg on the highways. Meanwhile, these figures of the S trim are 21 mpg and 28 mpg respectively.

And since the 2.4 L is combined with a 4-speed automatic, it reaches just 20 mpg on city roads and 26 mpg on the expressway.

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​The 2010 Toyota Matrix is a relatively safe car, with good scores in crash tests and a list of safety features that is comparable to other models in the compact car segment.

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has rated the Matrix as 'good' in frontal, side and rear impact. While the Corolla gets a Top Safety Pick, the safety feature package of the Toyota Matrix 2010 model is quite good though not outstanding. It includes front side and side-curtain airbags, electronic stability control and anti-lock brakes.

One thing drivers should consider is that the visibility on the rear can be a bit limited due to the rather narrow window entrance, particularly for those who have a great height.

The 2010 Toyota Matrix is a relatively safe car, with good scores in crash tests and a long list of safety features

Unfortunately, on August 5 2013, Toyota announces that the Toyota Matrix would be phased out in the US market after the last production due to decreasing sales and there was no alternative for this hatchback.

One year later, the Canadian market followes by putting an end to the 2014 Matrix model year without producing any 2015 model.

Toyota kept selling a series of compact hatchbacks for the North American market through the Scion brand. On September 1st, 2016, the Scion brand was transferred to Toyota. And the Toyota Corolla iM is chosen to the Matrix’s successor for the 2017 model year.

The Toyota Matrix 2010 has been phased out

All in all, the above good things about the Matrix are strong reasons why this versatile and practical car is so popular on Nigerian roads. Although we can’t expect to welcome a new generation of the Matrix, it is still not a bad idea to purchase a Toyota Matrix 2010 model at a good price in Nigeria, for those who fall in love with this hot hatch.

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