2009 Toyota Corolla

March 2009. The 2009 Toyota Corolla is redesigned, with slightly revised styling, more power and more standard safety features, including six airbags, front-seat active head restraints and antilock brakes. Electronic stability control is optional. The new Toyota Corolla's good crash test scores earn it a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Reviewers praise the Toyota Corolla's safety record and excellent reputation for reliability, but say Toyota played it too safe in the styling department. Base-level power comes from a 132-horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder with a five-speed manual or optional four-speed automatic. Fuel economy is outstanding, with EPA ratings of 26-27 mpg city and 35 mpg highway, and real-life averages very close to those figures. The new, sportier Toyota Corolla XRS (*est. $18,860) comes with a 158-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder and a five-speed manual gearbox. (A five-speed automatic is offered, but it pushes the car's price up to $20,050.) Fuel mileage ratings with the XRS' zippier powerplant drop substantially to 22 mpg city and 30 mpg highway with either transmission.
The new Toyota Corolla collects many recommendations from car reviewers, who say it's a well-built small sedan that goes about its business effectively and efficiently, like a quality appliance. But that also seems to be the problem with the Toyota Corolla. Lukewarm reviews reveal that many auto writers and consumers want more than a mere appliance in their driveway. Reviews point out that other small cars, such as the 2009 Honda Civic (*est. $15,305 to $25,190) and 2009 Mazda3 (*est. $14,690 to $20,895) are similarly well-engineered, but they're more fun to drive and exhibit more compelling design overall. The 2009 Hyundai Elantra (*est. $14,120 to $17,020) is frequently mentioned as having a nicer interior than the Toyota Corolla, along with a longer warranty and a lower price.
Car and Driver evaluates eight economy cars in an in-depth comparison test and the Toyota Corolla finishes third. Motor Trend also has a thorough four-car comparison test in which the Toyota Corolla places last. Cars.com names the Corolla sedan a Best Bet, providing a lengthy evaluation with plenty of references to competitors and links to several additional reviews from newspaper auto writers. Edmunds.com has four Toyota Corolla reviews, including a well-balanced XLE-trim road test and an enlightening three-car comparison with a panel of six consumers. Additional non-car-expert opinions come from MotherProof.com, which weighs in with a regular mom's point of view. About.com has an excellent one-car review, and both Consumer Reports and ConsumerGuide.com provide their usual comprehensive coverage.