2012 Toyota Matrix: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2012 Toyota Matrix is a carryover with no major changes. It keeps the engines, trim structure, styling, safety equipment, and technology introduced or continued after the broader 2011 refresh.
About the 2012 Toyota Matrix
2nd generation (2009-2013), after the 2011 refresh, second-to-last model year.
Toyota positions the Matrix as a sporty five-door hatchback that mixes compact-car efficiency with some of the usefulness people expect from a small SUV. The core appeal is flexibility: a tall cargo area, fold-flat seating, easy city size, and optional AWD on the stronger S models. Compared with many rivals of its time, the Matrix leaned less on flashy tech and more on cargo versatility, everyday usability, and Toyota’s reputation for durability.
The 2012 Matrix range focuses on two sporty-looking hatchbacks with flexible cargo space. The Sport has a 132-hp 1.8-liter engine, fog lamps, lower body spoilers, and a split-folding rear seat, while the S Sport adds a 158-hp 2.4-liter engine, a rear spoiler, a fold-flat front passenger seat, and a household-style power outlet.
2012 Toyota Matrix specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 1.8 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 4-Spd | Manual, 5-Spd |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 25 mpg | 20 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 32 mpg | 26 mpg |
| Horsepower | 132 hp | 158 hp |
| Torque | 128 lb-ft | 162 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 1500 lb | 1500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 49.4 cu-ft | 49.4 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 36.2 in | 36.2 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Bluetooth | ||
| Satellite Radio | ||
| USB Ports | ||
| 115V Power Outlet | ||
| Remote Start | ||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2012 Toyota Matrix compared with the 2011 model?
No major product changes arrived for the 2012 Toyota Matrix. The engine lineup, trim structure, styling, safety equipment, and technology carried over after the broader 2011 update.
Was the 2012 Toyota Matrix redesigned?
No, the 2012 Toyota Matrix was not redesigned. It remained part of the second generation introduced for 2009 and carried forward the styling and equipment update made for 2011.
What engines does the 2012 Toyota Matrix have?
The 2012 Toyota Matrix Sport has a 132-hp 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, while the S Sport has a 158-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder. These engines carried over from 2011.
Does the 2012 Toyota Matrix have all-wheel drive?
Yes, the 2012 Toyota Matrix has all-wheel drive on the S-based version. The 1.8-liter Sport is front-wheel drive, while AWD is tied to the stronger 2.4-liter S.
How do the 2012 Toyota Matrix Sport and S Sport differ?
The S Sport is the more powerful and better-equipped version. It has a 158-hp 2.4-liter engine, a rear spoiler, a fold-flat front passenger seat, a household-style power outlet, and six speakers; the Sport uses a 132-hp 1.8-liter engine and has four speakers.