When it comes to corporate blunders, the introduction of “New Coke” was a colossal failure for one simple reason: It messed with a winning formula. Thankfully the new 2009 Toyota Corolla, which has undergone changes that are more evolutionary than revolutionary, isn’t likely to suffer the same fate.
The compact Corolla has been a top-seller for years because it has consistently delivered good value in a straightforward package. A big part of this new version’s appeal is its pair of fuel-efficient four-cylinder engines, including the 132-horsepower 1.8-liter that comes standard in Base, LE, S, and XLE trim levels and the 158-horsepower, 2.4-liter that’s only offered in the sporty XRS model.
As you might expect, the more powerful engine under the hood of the XRS we drove made it feel downright gutsy compared to other Corolla models. That said, this remains an economical commuter car above all else, so those looking for a true high-performance compact will want to look elsewhere.
Underneath this new Corolla’s reworked sheet-metal is a relatively roomy five-passenger interior. Making the cabin more appealing are many desirable options you wouldn’t expect in this price range, including leather upholstery, a GPS navigation system, and a 440-watt JBL premium audio system.
With its combination of fresh-yet-familiar styling, above-average fuel economy, desirable features, and affordable price tag, we think the 2009 Toyota Corolla is a great example of how to bring a new product to market while staying true to its roots.
Strengths:
Excellent fuel economy estimates of up to 35 MPG on the highway
Strong reputation for reliability
More rear-seat leg room than its main competitor
Weaknesses:
Updated styling still looks a little ho-hum to us
Sporty XRS is no match for other high-performance compacts
Bottom Line:
What the Corolla lacks in excitement it more than makes up for in value and dependability.
Pricing:
Base Price: $15,350
As Tested: $22,514
Safety Features:
Antilock disc brakes
Electronic stability control system (available)
Multi-stage front airbags
Side-impact airbags (front seats)
Side-curtain airbags (front/rear seats)
Tire pressure monitoring system
Crash Test Ratings:
NHTSA/Frontal: Four stars
NHTSA/Side: Five stars (driver); Four stars (rear passenger)
IIHS/Frontal: Good
IIHS/Side: Not tested
Fuel Economy:
26 mpg City/35 mpg Highway (1.8L/manual)
27 mpg City/35 mpg Highway (1.8L/automatic)
22 mpg City/30 mpg Highway (2.4L/manual and automatic)
Four-speed automatic transmission
Five-speed automatic transmission
16-inch alloy wheels
Power sunroof
Heated outside mirrors
Leather upholstery
Navigation system
Premium audio system with 8 speakers
Six-disc CD changer
Satellite radio
Safety features
/*Antilock Brakes:*/|Standard|/*Brake Assist:*/|Standard|/*Electronic Stability Control:*/|Optional|/*Traction Control:*/|Optional|/*Multistage Front Airbags:*/|Standard|/*Side-Impact Airbags:*/|Standard|/*Side-Curtain Airbags:*/|Standard|/*Active Front Head Restraints:*/|Standard|/*Height Adjustable Shoulder Belts:*/|Standard|/*Safety Belt Pretensioners:*/|Standard|/*Center Rear Shoulder Belt:*/|Standard|/*Childproof Rear Door Locks:*/|Standard|/*Daytime Running Lights:*/|Standard|/*Tire Pressure Monitor:*/|Standard
Standard features
/*Standard:*/
1.8-liter four-cylinder engine
Five-speed manual transmission
15-inch steel wheels with wheelcovers
Intermittent windshield wipers
Rear window defroster
Air conditioning
Cloth upholstery
Height-adjustable driver’s seat
60/40 split-folding rear seatback
Outside temperature gauge
Tilt- and telescope-adjustable steering column
AM/FM/CD stereo with 4 speakers
/*LE adds:*/
Power windows
Power door locks
/*XLE adds:*/
16-inch steel wheels with wheel covers
Variable-intermittent windshield wipers
Keyless entry
Front center armrest
Woodgrain interior trim
AM/FM/CD stereo with 6 speakers
/*S adds:*/
Front foglights
Rear spoiler
Chrome exhaust tip
Front sport seats
Leather-wrapped steering wheel
Steering wheel controls
/*XRS adds:*/
2.4-liter four-cylinder engine
17-inch alloy wheels
Cruise control
Leather-wrapped shift knob
