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Why did Toyota discontinue Matrix?

Toyota discontinued the Matrix, a compact hatchback model, in 2013 after 11 years of production. The decision was driven by declining sales and a shift in consumer preferences towards crossover SUVs and other larger vehicle segments.


Declining Sales and Changing Market Trends


The Toyota Matrix was introduced in 2002 as a compact hatchback model designed to appeal to younger, active buyers. However, over the years, its sales steadily declined as consumer preferences shifted away from traditional hatchbacks towards crossover SUVs and other larger vehicle segments. The Matrix faced stiff competition from Toyota's own RAV4 crossover, as well as models from other automakers like the Honda CR-V and Ford Escape.


By the late 2000s, the Matrix's sales had dropped significantly, making it a less profitable model for Toyota. In 2013, Toyota decided to discontinue the Matrix, citing the need to focus on more popular and profitable vehicle segments.


Changing Consumer Preferences



  • The rise in popularity of crossover SUVs and other larger vehicles, which offered more space, utility, and a perceived sense of safety, contributed to the decline of the Matrix and other compact hatchbacks.

  • Younger buyers, who were the target market for the Matrix, increasingly gravitated towards crossovers and SUVs, which were seen as more versatile and better suited to their lifestyles.

  • The Matrix's compact size and hatchback design, which were once seen as advantages, became less appealing to many consumers as their needs and preferences shifted.


In the end, the discontinuation of the Toyota Matrix was a strategic decision driven by declining sales and changing market trends, as the automaker sought to focus on more popular and profitable vehicle segments.

What is the problem with the Matrix car?


One of its most severe issues is the engine problem. Many owners have noticed that the car consumed too much oil and heard ticking or rattling noises coming from the engine. Eventually, the Matrix engine just failed. This dreaded engine failure reportedly happens at around 103,300 miles and costs $3,400 to repair.



When did Toyota stop making the Matrix?


2014
The Toyota Matrix was discontinued in 2014. If you are a current Matrix owner, you can still count on getting great service from Toyota Service Centers. In the meantime, we invite you to check out new and Certified Used Vehicles that Toyota has to offer.



What did Toyota replace the Matrix with?


On September 1, 2016, "the Scion brand transitioned to Toyota." For the 2017 model year, the Corolla iM would be the successor of the Matrix. For the 2019 model year, the newest iteration has been released as the Corolla hatchback.



Why did Toyota get rid of the Matrix?


"The Matrix was something we looked at and said, we cannot fund it from a competitive set. Number two, we cannot advertise it and promote it. Number three, we don't build enough of them because our production was tied up in Corolla" so the decision was made to discontinue the vehicle.



What is the most common problem with Toyota Matrix?


Top Toyota Matrix Problems

  • Check Engine Light Due to Oxygen Sensor Failure.
  • Check Engine Light Due to EVAP System.
  • Bolts That Attach Front Window Glass to Window Regulator May Fail.
  • Excessive Oil Consumption.
  • Rattle from Engine at All Speeds.
  • Check Engine Light and Harsh Shifting.
  • Window Falls off Track.



What is the life expectancy of a Toyota Matrix?


How reliable is the Toyota Matrix? iSeeCars analyzed over 300 million vehicles to find out, and to determine how long each model can last. The Toyota Matrix has an average lifespan of 153,403 miles or about 11.1 years.



What went wrong with Matrix?


The absence of Lawrence Fishburne as Morpheus in The Matrix 4 frustrated fans who adored his portrayal of the character in the previous films. The Matrix Resurrections had lower stakes and a more somber tone compared to the original trilogy, which may have turned audiences off from the movie.



Is there a 2024 Toyota Matrix?


If you're looking for a 2024 Toyota Matrix, unfortunately, you'll be out of luck. It was available for 2003 up until 2013 in the United States, and until 2014 in Canada. It was born out of a partnership between Toyota and GM; the GM variant of the model was the Pontiac Vibe, part of the now-defunct Pontiac line.



What years did the Toyota Matrix burn oil?


Toyota finally took note of the problem in 2011, and a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) was issued to acknowledge the oil consumption concerns in the following vehicles equipped with the affected 4-cylinder 2AZ-FE engine: 2007 – 2011 Toyota Camry. 2007 – 2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid. 2009 Toyota Matrix.



What is the lifespan of a Toyota Matrix?


How reliable is the Toyota Matrix? iSeeCars analyzed over 300 million vehicles to find out, and to determine how long each model can last. The Toyota Matrix has an average lifespan of 153,403 miles or about 11.1 years.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.