Toyota Matrix 2010 model: Price in Nigeria, Specs, Interior & Engine (Update in 2019)

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

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

For the second generation, in 2008, Toyota started offering more trim levels for the Matrix in the US and Canadian market

In this article, we will choose the US market to get a deep insight into the Matrix with a base version and a top-spec model - the Matrix S. The S edition comes equipped with more advanced technology, more standard features and also a more powerful engine. Meanwhile, the base variant has a kit of basic features that are said to be just enough for fundamental functions. All about the two variant will be revealed below.

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 similar to 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 like a couple's style, not refer to a utility vehicle, which is said to eclipse 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 the 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

Toyota Matrix 2010 vs Toyota Corolla 2010

3.1. Cabin space

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

For the car seats, they seem to provide less supportive functions for both the driver and passengers than most on-market models. In detail, the flat cushions are not comfortable especially for those who have greater height and weight, during a long trip. However, for the quicker and shorter trips, the tilt/telescopic steering wheel and the seats still bring enough comfort with their 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 back, the rear seating row can provide space for 3 people in theory, but in fact, it is just enough for 2 average-sized adults. The hatch also offers a spacious cabin space as it can be widened by folding the rear seating row to house up more luggage and pieces of 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 on most of the dashboard and drab plastics otherwise, luxury and high-end level seem to be far away from this car. On the other hand, the central control layout for the driver has its own simple charm.

The dashboard looks a bit sportier and more eye-catching than the previous model but still, it may make some purse because of its fully-covered matte-metallic and plasticky surfaces, making the car look somewhat outdated, plain and drab.

The interior is simple and solid with matte-metallic and hard plastic wrapped on most of the dashboard and drab plastics

However, with the center portion of the dashboard supporting and the large rotary control for climate control, the car brings a little more adventurous driving experience for the driver, compared to the aforementioned Corolla.

The odometer is also covered by hard plastic

3.2. Infotainment system

The Toyota Matrix 2010 is added Bluetooth connectivity, along with a kit of standard features offering not many options. Although the Matrix has a price tag and equipment are higher than the Corolla, it seems that this stylish hot hatch is just adorned with basic features, which doesn’t allow the driver and occupants to diverse their options.

The base Toyota Matrix 2010 model has cruise control, power windows and mirrors and air conditioning which are all standard features while the S variant 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 variant has been updated with an all-new sound system with audio streaming

Since 2013, the base variant 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 got a 6.1-inch touchscreen.

​4.1. Toyota Matrix 2010 Engine

The Toyota Matrix 2010 engine comes different in two variants. 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. But the 2.4 l is a little thirstier.

The S version runs with an all-wheel-drive (S AWD) form and is combined to a 5-speed automatic transmission while the base 1.8 L works in a conjunction with a 4-speed automatic gearbox. Both engines also offer a 5-speed light manual option.

The base model gets a 1.8 L 4-cylinder engine

4.2. Toyota Matrix 2010 Performance

Looking at the Matrix, it is expected to offer a better performance in handling capacity than the Corolla’s. But actually, the car can’t satisfy the expectation as it has a dull and light steering wheel that doesn’t bring driving sense and enjoyable experience. Proudly, it has a bit firmer suspension than the sedan.

Unlike other cars which are equipped with a torsion-beam arrangement, the S version comes with a rear double-wishbone suspension setup, but it doesn’t create more exciting feel as expected.

But in another view, as compared to other small cars, the hatchback also offers a quite good ride with except for its road noise and the coarse, eliminating the refinement of the car.

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

As the Toyota Prius, the Matrix has also received the fondness of Toyota as it is designed to optimize its mileage and even better. However, the car is not highly appreciated in terms of fuel economy, aerodynamics, gear ratios or weight, which is not good as usually seen in Toyota models.

On city roads, the hatchback guzzles 26 mpg and 32 mpg on the highways, for the base variant. Meanwhile, these figures of the S version 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.

​The 2010 Toyota Matrix is a small car model, a relatively safe choice, with good results in crash tests and a list of safety features that is comparable to other models in the class.

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has evaluated the Matrix with top 'good' ratings 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 but there is nothing outstanding in any way. It includes front side and side-curtain airbags, electronic stability control and anti-lock brakes.

One thing you will consider when driving is that the visibility on the rear can be a challenge due to the rather narrow window entrance, particularly for those who have a great height.

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

Please refer to the table below for the Toyota Matrix 2010 Price in Nigeria. We also include prices of older model years for your further information.

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

>>> Toyota Matrix prices in Nigeria and its 4 recalls

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

One year later, the Canadian market followed 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 aforementioned good things about the Matrix clearly depict the reasons which make this multi-utility and practical drive so popular on Nigerian roads. Now we can’t order and even expect to welcome a new generation of the Matrix, it is still not a bad idea to purchase a Toyota Matrix 2010 model, for those who fall in love with this hot hatch.