Hyundai Matrix (01-10) - Review

Review by David Ross on
The Matrix is a compact people carrier similar in size to the Citroen Xsara Picasso. It does look a little strange from the outside but the tall profile means there's plenty of interior space, especially for rear passengers, along with a half-decent boot. As is the case with all Hyundai's, it is well equipped and good value, plus newer versions come with a five-year unlimited mileage warranty as standard. Unfortunately it's poor to drive, so despite a smooth ride, it's not an enjoyable car on anything other than motorways. The diesels are the better choice but it's best going for a later CRDi model rather than the earlier CRTD.
2.5 out of 5

Other Hyundai reviews

2.5 out of 5

Running costs

Hyundai servicing is reasonable priced while insurance is group 7 for most models (the 1.8-litre model is group 9). The biggest worry if you're buying new is depreciation - it's very steep and if you part exchange outside the Hyundai dealer network, you're likely to be offered less than you expect.

* based on most recent data

Estimated fuel cost for 10,000 miles per year

Unleaded

£1,574 - £1,980 *

Diesel

£1,187 - £1,308 *

The estimated fuel cost figure is a guide to how much this model will cost to fuel each year, so you can compare between cars. It's calculated by using the model's average mpg (calculated from both town centre and motorway driving) and the average fuel price. It's based on the following cost-per-litre: petrol 135p and diesel 141p. Prices are updated daily.

Summary Running Costs

Servicing period

10,000 miles.

Warranty

Five years/unlimited mileage.

Road tax (12 months)

£120.00 - £270.00

Vehicle excise duty (VED) varies according to the CO2 emissions and the fuel type of the vehicle. For cars registered after March 1st 2001 VED or road tax is based on the car's CO2 emissions. For cars registered before March 1st 2001 it is based on engine size.

Full running costs data

2.5 out of 5

Green credentials

  • A
  • B
  • C
  • D
  • E
    136
  • F
  • G
  • H
  • I
  • J
  • K
    215
  • L
  • M

CO2 emission figure (g/km)

Fuel economy rating

The arrows indicate the best and worst CO2 bands for this model.

Emissions summary

The Matrix isn't especially eco-friendly with an average of 171g/km CO2 across the line-up. The newer 1.5 CRDi engine is the cleanest - it emits 140g/km of CO2 and returns 53mpg.

Find the exact engine and CO2