Interest in small cars is on the upswing, in part because of last summer’s spike in gas prices, but also because of the general economic slowdown.
The 2009 Toyota Corolla is the 10th generation of a model that first arrived on these shores in 1968. The Corolla has racked up worldwide sales of 30 million since its debut in 1966. Look at today’s car and it is amazing how much this compact has evolved in 40 years.
Today’s four-passenger Corolla has matured into a sedan whose 102.4-inch wheelbase is identical in size to that of the first-generation, 1982 Camry. It was penned by Toyota Design in collaboration with studios in Turin, Italy. The look is conservative and understated in keeping with its mass-market appeal.
The Corolla’s level of sophistication and refinement exceeds that of the first Camry. Panel gaps are tight, the cabin is quiet and the quality of interior materials is on par with more expensive cars.
Corolla prices begin at $15,350 and top out at $20,050 for the XRS. The XLE test car had a base price of $17,650.
For all models except the XRS, power comes from a 132-horsepower, 1.8-liter four-cylinder. The XRS has a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 158 horsepower.
The city is the Corolla’s natural environment, and it slipped in and out of traffic with ease. While the 1.8-liter doesn’t have an excess of power, it was more than adequate for keeping up with traffic and merging onto the expressway. Mash the throttle and the small engine spins eagerly up to redline with very little noise or vibration.
Dual overhead cams and variable valve timing help the engine make the most of its power. A five-speed manual transmission is standard on the base models while the automatic is standard on the LE, S and XLE models.
The Environmental Protection Agency rates fuel mileage at 27 mpg in the city and 35 on the highway.
The Corolla’s cabin doesn’t feel like that of an economy car. The quality of materials and textures is on par with cars such as the Camry. The XLE test car had wood-grain trim and fingertip controls for the radio and cruise control on the steering wheel. Power windows and power locks were standard.
The front seats were comfortable, and the back seat had adequate legroom for adults. The trunk is nicely sized as well.
Anti-lock brakes are standard on all Corolla models for 2009. Vehicle stability control and traction control are optional on base models and standard on the LE and XLE.
All Corollas are equipped with front, side and side-curtain airbags.
Price
The base price of the test car was $17,650. Options included iPod interface kit, XM satellite radio, AM/FM radio with six-disc changer and six speakers. The sticker price was $19,269.
Warranty
Three years or 36,000 miles with a five-year, 60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
2009 Toyota Corolla XLE
Engine: 1.8-liter, 132-hp 4-cyl.
Transmission: Automatic
Front-wheel drive
Wheelbase: 102.4 inches
Curb weight: 2,811 lbs.
Base price: $17,650
As tested: $19,269
MPG rating: 27 city, 35 hwy.
To contact Tom Strongman, send e-mail to tom@tomstrongman.com.
