Does Toyota Matrix come in AWD?
The short answer: In North America, the Toyota Matrix was not offered with factory all-wheel drive. The Matrix was a front-wheel-drive hatchback built on the Corolla platform, produced from 2003 to 2014, and AWD variants were not part of its standard U.S. or Canadian lineups. Some overseas markets did offer AWD variants of related RunX/Matrix models, but those configurations did not appear in the North American catalog.
AWD availability by market and generation
The Matrix’s two generations followed a similar pattern: front-wheel drive was standard in the regions where it was sold, with all-wheel drive appearing only in select overseas RunX/Matrix variants. The information below reflects typical availability in major markets.
- First generation (2003–2008): In the United States and Canada, AWD was not offered on Matrix models. Some non-U.S. markets reportedly received AWD variants of RunX/Matrix, but those configurations were not part of the NA lineup.
- Second generation (2009–2014): In North America, AWD remained unavailable for Matrix models. Some overseas markets continued to offer AWD configurations on Matrix/RunX lineage, depending on year and trim.
For buyers in the U.S. or Canada, that means there was no factory AWD option for the Matrix during its lifecycle. If AWD is a priority, consider Toyota models that are sold with AWD in North America, such as the RAV4, or explore other crossover options within Toyota’s lineup.
Alternatives and practical considerations
If you need all-wheel drive, there are several practical paths to consider beyond the Matrix—particularly within Toyota’s current and recent offerings. The list below outlines common options and considerations for AWD shoppers.
- Toyota RAV4: A mainstream compact SUV with available all-wheel drive across multiple model years and trims.
- Other Toyota crossovers: Models like the C-HR, Highlander, and 4Runner offer AWD options, depending on the region and year.
- Avoiding reliability or warranty pitfalls: If exploring non-OEM AWD retrofits for a Matrix, be mindful of warranty implications and potential reliability concerns, as aftermarket solutions can vary in quality and compatibility.
In practice, if AWD is a non-negotiable feature, buyers typically turn to Toyota’s dedicated AWD crossovers rather than retrofit a Matrix, which was never offered with factory AWD in its primary North American markets.
Summary
The Toyota Matrix did not come with a factory all-wheel-drive option in North America. While some overseas RunX/Matrix variants reportedly existed with AWD, U.S. and Canadian Matrix models were offered exclusively in front-wheel drive. For shoppers prioritizing AWD, Toyota’s RAV4 and other AWD-capable crossovers represent the more reliable, readily available choices within the brand.
Which Toyota model is AWD?
Toyota offers many vehicles with all-wheel drive (AWD), including sedans like the Camry and Prius, SUVs such as the RAV4 and Highlander, trucks like the Tacoma and Tundra, and the electric bZ4X. The specific AWD system varies by model, with options including Dynamic Torque-Control, Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD, and Electronic On-Demand AWD for hybrids.
Sedans and hatchbacks
Camry, Corolla and Corolla Hybrid, Crown, Prius, Avalon, and Sienna (minivan).
SUVs and crossovers
- 4Runner
- bZ4X (electric)
- Corolla Cross and Corolla Cross Hybrid
- Grand Highlander and Grand Highlander Hybrid
- Highlander and Highlander Hybrid
- RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, and RAV4 Prime
- Sequoia
- Venza
Trucks
Tacoma and Tundra.
Which Toyota Matrix is AWD?
The Toyota Matrix available with all-wheel drive (AWD) is the Matrix S trim level, and this option was available on models from approximately 2005 to 2013. In some older model years, the base and XR trims were also available with AWD, but the "S" trim became the specific AWD model in later years.
- S Trim: This is the primary trim that offered an available AWD system, typically featuring a 2.4-liter engine and a four-speed automatic transmission.
- Older Models: For some earlier model years, the base and XR trims could also be optioned with all-wheel drive.
- Engine Differences: AWD models, especially in later years, often used the more powerful 2.4-liter engine and came standard with the four-speed automatic transmission.
Are Toyota Matrix good in snow?
Unless you are in an area that doesn't plow their roads or you have to break trail on a regular basis, just get a set of snow tires and you'll be fine. Even with the non-AWD Matrix it's a great snow car.
Why did they stop making Toyota Matrix?
The Toyota Matrix was discontinued in the U.S. for the 2014 model year due to declining sales, an aging platform, and competition from other vehicles. The combination of these factors, along with the fact that it was based on an older Corolla platform while the sedan was being redesigned, led Toyota to discontinue it.
- Low sales: Sales had been declining for years, and the Matrix was no longer a significant seller for Toyota.
- Aging platform: The Matrix was based on an aging platform, and with a new Corolla redesign on the horizon, Toyota did not see enough demand for a new generation of the hatchback.
- Competition: The Matrix faced competition from other compact hatchbacks, including its corporate cousins like the Scion xB and the Prius C, as well as other models from competitors.
- Lack of identity: According to a Toyota executive, shoppers were unsure if it was a wagon or a five-door hatchback, contributing to its identity problem and lower sales.
