Toyota Matrix vs Volvo V50
The Toyota Matrix is more fuel-efficient at 29 MPG combined, against 22 MPG for the Volvo V50. At EPA assumptions that is about $1,450 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Toyota Matrix | Volvo V50 | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 260 | 26 |
| Most reported problem | Air bags | Engine |
| Crashes and fires | 14 and 2 | 0 and 0 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 78,000 miles | 61,000 miles |
| Recalls | 1 | 3 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 29 MPG | 22 MPG |
| City and highway | 26 and 33 | 19 and 27 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,300 | $3,750 |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 260 complaints for the Toyota Matrix and 26 for the Volvo V50. Complaint counts depend heavily on how many of each vehicle were sold, so a higher count does not by itself mean a less reliable car.
Safety recalls on file: 1 for the Toyota Matrix, 3 for the Volvo V50.