The Toyota Corolla is one of the best selling cars in the world. It gets good gas mileage, has high scores for reliability, yet is still affordable by most new car buyers.
But of course, the Corolla hasn't gotten where it is by sitting on its laurels ... and the 2009 model is no different.
The newest Corolla has again been upgraded with more available power, more standard safety features, and fresh styling.
For 2009 Corolla offers five trim levels versus the three for the 2008 model year. Base, LE, new XLE, and sporty S models are equipped with a 132-horsepower 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine, replacing the 126-hp 1.8-liter 4-cylinder. The top-line XRS model gets a 158-horsepower 2.4-liter 4-cylinder.
While a manual transmission is standard, the optional automatic transmission is a 4-speed on all the Corollas except the XRS, which gets a 5-speed. The XRS also gets 17-inch wheels and 4-wheel disc brakes. The other models get either 15 or 16-inch wheels and rear drum brakes.
Available safety features include anti-lock brakes, an anti-skid system, traction control, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags.
Update: Weak Economy Leads To Lower Corolla Prices:
There's no question that dealers are struggling right now. And this has led to some extremely good deals to be had on Corollas, as well as many other vehicles ... often below invoice prices, sometimes far below.
See the link towards the bottom of this article for exactly how to get the lowest price on a new Corolla.
And for the first time, Toyota offers a navigation system as an option on all but Base and LE models. Leather upholstery is an option that is available on the S and XRS models.
In terms of driving, the Corolla's handling is solid. The ride is smooth and fairly quiet, even when confronted with dips and bounces. It has a tight turning radius and excellent brake-pedal modulation. That being said, the Corolla isn't intended for avid "driving enthusiasts", although the XRS is a definite step up in performance.
Interior controls are well laid out, easy to locate and easy to read. The seating is comfortable, outward visibility is good and the roominess is adequate given this is a compact car.
The gas mileage for the new Corolla is one of its most coveted attributes. The 4-speed automatic is EPA rated at 27 mpg city and 35 mpg highway while the 5-speed automatic gets 22 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, due to its larger engine size. The standard 5-speed manual is rated at 27 mpg city and 35 mpg highway.
While it appears there are some major challenges for carmakers for the 2009 model year and sales have already slowed considerably, the new Toyota Corolla again looks well suited for those buyers who need a new car this year.
The Corolla's compact size, reliable history, excellent gas mileage performance and affordable pricing could make this star shine even more brightly.
As a side note, a gas-electric Corolla hybrid is expected not far down the line, probably in the 2010 model year. This first hybrid Corolla is expected to use a new, more-compact powertrain that Toyota claims will cost half as much to make as earlier systems, narrowing the price gap with regular versions.
How To Buy A New Corolla At The Best Price: Before listing MSRP and invoice prices for the 2009 Corolla, here's an article outlining the best car buying strategy, especially given the current slow economic environment.
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