Corolla

All it shares with other cars is the road.

The Toyota Corolla small sedan is available in five trim levels: base, LE, S, XLE and XRS. Base models are reasonably well-equipped but lack power accessories, which the LE model adds. The S model has only the base model’s convenience features as standard but gains various sporty touches. The XLE is the most luxurious Corolla, while the XRS is less luxurious but features a larger engine and a sport-tuned suspension.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

If you select the Corolla S includes, 16-inch steel wheels, full underbody spoilers, foglights, sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and an extra pair of stereo speakers.

A luxury version of the LE, the new Corolla XLE also gets the 16-inch wheels and upgraded stereo while adding amenities like a sliding center armrest, wood-grain interior trim, electroluminescent gauges, keyless entry and variable intermittent wipers.

Powertrains and Performance

With the exception of the XRS, all 2009 Toyota Corollas are motivated by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 132 hp and 128 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission driving the front wheels is standard, and a four-speed automatic is optional. EPA ratings are set at 27 mpg city and 35 mpg highway with either transmission.

The Corolla XRS comes with a 2.4-liter engine that pushes 158 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed manual is standard and a five-speed automatic is optional.

Safety

Every Toyota Corolla comes with antilock brakes, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and active front head restraints. Stability control is standard on the XRS and optional on other Corollas. Only the XRS has four-wheel disc brakes; other Corollas have rear drums.

Interior Design and Special Features

Cabin design is a strong point for the 2009 Toyota Corolla. The driving position accommodates drivers of different sizes than in past years, and the control layout is as ergonomic as they come.

Storage is more than ample up front, particularly with the addition of a double glovebox. Materials quality is high, and fit and finish is consistent with Toyota’s historically high standards.