What is the L 100km on a 2008 Toyota Matrix?
In typical usage, the vehicle’s combined fuel consumption sits around 7.6–8.5 L/100km (about 28–31 mpg US), varying mainly by transmission and driving conditions.
The L/100km figure measures how many liters of fuel the car uses to travel 100 kilometers. For the 2008 Toyota Matrix, the exact number depends on the engine/transmission combination and how the vehicle is driven. With the Matrix’s 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, buyers could choose between manual and automatic transmissions, and those choices influence the published EPA estimates as well as real-world results. Below is a breakdown of typical ranges and the factors that shift them.
Fuel economy by configuration
Below are commonly cited EPA-style ranges for the 2008 Matrix’s fuel economy, reflecting the two primary drivetrain configurations from that year.
Manual transmission (5-speed)
For the 1.8-liter engine with a manual gearbox, the combined fuel economy is typically around 7.6–7.9 L/100km (roughly 30–31 mpg US). Real-world results can vary with city versus highway driving, payload, and maintenance.
- Manual transmission, front-wheel drive (FWD): Combined ≈ 7.6–7.9 L/100km
In this configuration, drivers often see better efficiency at steady highway speeds, with city driving increasing the L/100km slightly due to stop-and-go conditions.
Automatic transmission
With an automatic transmission, the Matrix typically records combined fuel economy around 8.0–8.5 L/100km (roughly 28–30 mpg US). Variations arise from transmission design (for example, 4-speed vs. more modern automatics in some markets) and driving style.
- Automatic transmission, front-wheel drive (FWD): Combined ≈ 8.0–8.5 L/100km
Automatic versions often show slightly higher L/100km in stop-and-go city traffic but can perform efficiently on longer highway trips with light loads.
Other factors that influence L/100km
Fuel economy is not a fixed number; it shifts with conditions and upkeep. The following factors regularly push the L/100km in either direction.
- Driving style and terrain: City driving with frequent braking and acceleration raises L/100km; steady highway cruising lowers it.
- Tire condition and pressure: Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and fuel use.
- Maintenance status: A clean air filter, fresh spark plugs, and properly functioning sensors help engine efficiency.
- Vehicle load and aftermarket gear: Roof racks, heavy cargo, and additional accessories add mass and drag, increasing fuel use.
- Climate control use: Air conditioning and heating demand more engine power, impacting L/100km, especially in extreme temperatures.
Even with identical drivetrains, these factors can swing real-world fuel economy by a full liter per 100 kilometers or more.
Summary
The 2008 Toyota Matrix generally returns around 7.6–8.5 L/100km in combined driving, depending on whether it has a manual or automatic transmission. Real-world results will vary with driving conditions, maintenance, and load. For the most accurate figure of your specific car, consult the owner’s manual or check your on-board fuel economy display, and factor in regional EPA or other local testing standards.
