0049 (0)89 2000 791 00
Mo - Fr 8:00am - 8:00pm
USCar Trader import service
Choose a specific vehicle. Where data is available, its detail page shows the import cost calculation. We assess any possible duty benefit with you before purchase.
Important: A 0% EU import-duty rate may be available for a vehicle covered by Regulation (EU) 2026/1455 that has US origin and is imported directly into the EU. CETA may apply to a vehicle with preferential Canadian origin. Whether the requirements are met is assessed for the individual case. Please contact us before purchase; we review the possible duty benefit and provide non-binding support through the process. Import VAT and other costs are assessed separately.
CarHub · Toyota
The Toyota Matrix is the practical, slightly sporty hatchback version of the Corolla — a tall, versatile five-door that was aimed squarely at North American buyers and never sold widely in Europe.
Model profile
The Matrix arrived for the 2003 model year and shared everything under the skin with the Corolla and its identical twin, the Pontiac Vibe. The first generation (E130) ran from 2003 to 2008 and was styled as a low, wagon-like hatch. The second generation (E140) launched for 2009 with a taller, more crossover-influenced shape and ran in the US through 2013 (a year longer in Canada).
Powertrain and equipment
First-generation cars used the 1.8-litre 1ZZ-FE four-cylinder with about 126 hp in base and XR trim. The enthusiast pick was the XRS, fitted with the high-revving 1.8-litre 2ZZ-GE (the same lift-cam engine family as the Celica GT-S), making around 170–173 hp and offering a six-speed manual.
The Matrix was sold only as a five-door hatch. First-gen trims were the base, XR and sporty XRS; the second generation offered base, S and XRS. Higher grades added alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, upgraded audio and cruise control.
Vehicle selection
Supply is strong.
The Matrix suits a buyer who wants Corolla dependability and running costs but more space and a bit more style, or an enthusiast chasing the rev-happy XRS.
Vehicle data
| Body style | Detail (typical, both generations): 5-door compact hatchback |
|---|---|
| Length | Detail (typical, both generations): approx. 4,365 mm (gen2) |
| Wheelbase | Detail (typical, both generations): approx. 2,600 mm |
| Kerb weight | Detail (typical, both generations): approx. 1,270–1,450 kg |
| Cargo (seats up) | Detail (typical, both generations): approx. 540–560 litres |
| Base engine | Detail (typical, both generations): 1.8 L I4 (1ZZ-FE / 2ZR-FE) |
|---|---|
| Sport engine | Detail (typical, both generations): 1.8 L 2ZZ-GE (gen1 XRS) / 2.4 L 2AZ-FE (gen2) |
| Power | Detail (typical, both generations): approx. 126–173 hp |
| Transmission | Detail (typical, both generations): 5/6-speed manual, 4/5-speed automatic |
| Drive | Detail (typical, both generations): Front-wheel drive (optional AWD on 2.4) |
| Fuel tank | Detail (typical, both generations): approx. 50 litres |
| Fuel | Detail (typical, both generations): Petrol |
| Platform | Detail (typical, both generations): Toyota Corolla (E130/E140) |
|---|---|
| Assembly | Detail (typical, both generations): Cambridge, Ontario, Canada |
| US model years | Detail (typical, both generations): 2003–2008 (gen1), 2009–2013 (gen2) |
| Twin model | Detail (typical, both generations): Pontiac Vibe |
Values are reproduced verbatim from the existing article table. The documents for the specific vehicle govern.
Pre-purchase review
The Matrix is one of the more dependable cars in its class, but each engine has a known trait worth checking. The 1ZZ-FE in early cars can consume oil if maintenance was neglected, a well-documented piston-ring/oil-return issue.
Germany and Europe
US Matrix cars use mph instruments, US-spec lighting without a rear fog lamp, and side-marker lamps. Infotainment is basic and US radio bands differ.
The assessment depends on the specific vehicle and the circumstances of the transaction. Please contact USCar Trader before purchase; we review any possible duty benefit and provide non-binding support. Import VAT and other costs are considered separately.
Typical work: adding or activating a rear fog lamp, adapting the rear turn-signal function, checking headlamp compliance and converting the speedometer display.
USCar Trader services
As a buyer based in Germany, you do not have to inspect the vehicle yourself in the United States or Canada. Within the agreed scope, USCar Trader can coordinate document review, a separately commissioned on-site inspection and purchase processing.
Covered inspection points are agreed in advance. An on-site inspection records condition at the appointment and is not a guarantee.
Next step: Before commissioning, USCar Trader and the customer agree which document, history, inspection and transaction checks suit the vehicle and are included in the service. This records what was actually checked.
Import process
The import process for a Toyota Matrix is planned around the specific listing, location, documents and commissioned service scope.
Questions and answers
Yes, it is among the most dependable compacts of its era, sharing Corolla mechanicals. Watch the known oil-consumption and 2AZ head-bolt issues and it will last a long time.
The first-generation XRS used the high-revving 2ZZ-GE engine with around 170 hp and a six-speed manual; the second-generation XRS used the 2.4-litre 2AZ-FE with about 158 hp.
No, not automatically. A 0% EU import-duty rate may be available for a vehicle covered by Regulation (EU) 2026/1455 that has US origin and is imported directly into the EU. CETA may apply to a vehicle with preferential Canadian origin. Whether the requirements are met is assessed for the individual case. Please contact USCar Trader before purchase; we review the possible duty benefit and provide non-binding support. Import VAT and other costs are assessed separately.
Effectively yes; the two are twins built on the same Corolla platform, with the Vibe wearing Pontiac styling.
All-wheel drive was available on the 2.4-litre versions of both generations, paired with an automatic transmission.
Very. The tall hatch and folding seats give around 540 to 560 litres with the rear seats up, and much more folded.
The 1.8-litre (1ZZ-FE or 2ZR-FE) offers the best economy and simplest maintenance for everyday use.
Available VIN, title and history information can be reviewed in the vehicle profile. USCar Trader can also arrange a separately booked on-site inspection within a scope agreed in advance.
More vehicles