The 2009 Toyota Matrix is a practical and compact vehicle available as a wagon or five-door hatchback. For 2009, the Matrix incorporates the functionality of a sport utility vehicle (in styling, image, performance) with the affordability of a small sedan. The four-door Matrix is available in three trim levels - Standard, S and the top-of-the-line XRS. The Matrix gets dual variable value timing (VVT) on its intake as well as exhaust valves to achieve better fuel economy and performance.

The five-passenger Matrix sees major design changes with its new coupe-like exterior styling and upgraded interior utility. The theme is dynamic and flowing. The design exhibits a low center of gravity, with character lines running from front grille to A-pillar. The S and XRS trims combine a front underbody spoiler with a large mesh fog lamp bezel and rear underbody spoiler. The 2009 Matrix sports a new three-spoke steering wheel; rounded rear windows; and new sport seats with seat-mounted side air bags for driver and front passenger. Cabin space remains the same as previous models, but seats have been slightly lowered to maintain proper headroom. Standard amenities on all Matrix trims include power steering, power color-keyed outside rearview mirrors, daytime running lights, intermittent windshield wipers, tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel, heavy-duty rear window defogger, 12-volt power outlet, four cupholders, auxiliary audio input jack, engine immobilizer and front center console box. In addition there is air conditioning, a 60/40-split foldable seat with a middle seat headrest for the fifth passenger, and larger vents for directional accuracy and better heating and cooling. Optional equipment consists of a power heated outside rearview mirror, power windows, power door locks, alloy wheels, AM/FM/CD with a six-speaker system and DVD navigation, intermittent rear window wiper, remote keyless entry and cruise control.

The Matrix offers a choice of two engine types on all its trims: a 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine that produces 132 horsepower and 128 pound-feet of peak torque; and a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder that generates 158 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. Both these engines are offered by its closest sibling, the 2009 Corolla. A five-speed manual transmission is standard; while a four-speed or five-speed automatic transmission are optional. Front-wheel drive is standard, but buyers can opt for all-wheel drive on the S trim. Fuel economy of the 2009 Matrix with manual transmission is 26/32 mpg (city/highway), while it records 25/31 mpg (city/highway) with the 1.8-liter engine attached to an automatic transmission.

Standard safety technology includes dual-stage front-seat air bags; full-length two-row side curtain air bags; active headrests; and four-wheel anti-lock brake system with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist. Vehicle stability control with traction control and an off switch are standard on the XRS and optional on other trims.