How big is the gas tank on a 2012 Toyota Matrix?
The gas tank on a 2012 Toyota Matrix holds 13.2 gallons (50 liters).
This capacity is the standard figure cited for the 2012 Matrix across its trims, which included both the 1.8-liter and the 2.4-liter engines. Knowing the tank size helps drivers estimate fueling intervals and planning for trips or daily commutes.
Technical background and consistency across trims
The Matrix, a compact hatchback built on the Corolla platform, uses a shared fuel-tank design. For the 2012 model year, the capacity remained at 13.2 gallons (50 liters) regardless of engine choice, providing a consistent baseline for fuel planning.
Impact on range and daily use
Fuel economy and driving conditions determine how far you can travel on a full tank. With a 13.2-gallon tank, real-world range will vary, but drivers can expect several hundred miles per tank under typical city and highway driving scenarios.
Regional and model-year notes
In North America and most markets where the 2012 Matrix was sold, the 13.2-gallon tank size is the commonly cited specification. Regional variations are uncommon, and this figure is broadly applicable across the model year and trims.
Summary
The 2012 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a 13.2-gallon (50-liter) fuel tank, a standard size for its Corolla-derived hatchback line. This capacity supports practical daily use and routine fueling planning for drivers.
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.
How many miles per gallon does a 2012 Toyota Matrix get?
With the 2.4-liter engine, the Matrix averages 21/29 mpg with the five-speed automatic and 21/28 mpg with the five-speed manual. All-wheel drive models get 20/26 mpg.
How many gallons of gas can a Toyota Matrix hold?
The Toyota Matrix has a fuel tank capacity of approximately 13.2 gallons for most front-wheel-drive models from 2003–2013. However, some earlier models, particularly all-wheel-drive (AWD) versions from 2003-2006, have a smaller 12-gallon tank. Canadian models from 2007 had a 50-liter (11-gallon) tank, while some 2010 models also had a 50-liter (11-gallon) tank.
Fuel tank sizes by model year:
- 2003–2013 (FWD): ~13.2 gallons
- 2003–2006 (AWD): 12 gallons
- 2007 (Canada): 50 liters (~11 gallons)
- 2010 (Canada): 50 liters (~11 gallons)
What is the life expectancy of a Toyota Matrix?
A Toyota Matrix can last for over 200,000 miles, and many owners report reaching 300,000 miles or more with proper maintenance. Its longevity is attributed to its reliable design, which is based on the Toyota Corolla platform, and low ownership costs. Key to achieving high mileage is consistent maintenance, such as regular oil changes, as well as being mindful of potential issues like rust and specific transmission problems in some manual models.
Factors for achieving high mileage
- Regular maintenance: Consistently following a maintenance schedule is the most important factor. This includes oil changes, tire rotations, and other recommended services.
- Rust prevention: Rust can be a common weakness, especially for older models. Regular cleaning and preventative measures like oil spraying can help prolong the vehicle's life.
- Manual vs. automatic transmission: Some sources suggest the automatic transmission is more reliable than the manual transmission, which has been known to have problems in certain models.
- Driving habits: Smooth driving and avoiding aggressive acceleration can contribute to the engine and other components lasting longer.
What owners report
- Many owners have reported their Matrix reaching 300,000 miles or more with minimal issues, with the only necessary repairs being routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations.
- Some users have even reported reaching over 400,000 miles on their cars, although this level of longevity often requires meticulous upkeep.
