We’d say the ever-popular Toyota Corolla is a leader in quality, comfort, style and driving — if this were 2003. But it’s 2013, and Cars.com reviewer Joe Wiesenfelder says the past decade hasn’t been kind, as competitors have surpassed the stalwart compact sedan in everything from interior materials and controls to cabin space and cargo volume. Moreover, despite reliable ride comfort, a returning four-speed automatic transmission in a crowd of better-accelerating five- and six-speeds makes it seem like the 2013 Corolla is content riding on its rep. Let’s hope the newly announced redesign feels otherwise.
Former Assistant Managing Editor-News Matt Schmitz is a veteran Chicago journalist indulging his curiosity for all things auto while helping to inform car shoppers.