2009 Corolla

Since its introduction in 1968 in the US, the Toyota Corolla has been the best-selling sedan in automobile history. Small, inexpensive, fuel-efficient and reliable, the Corolla is popular among older women. It is estimated that every 40 seconds, a new Corolla rolls off the dealer’s lot.

The 2009 Toyota Corolla, the tenth generation of the model, aims for younger buyers. The model received restyling in its exterior, which, from some angles, made it look like a “baby Camry”. The 2009 Corolla is also 2.5 inches wider than the 2003-2008 models, with some changes in other exterior and interior dimensions. The front room is slightly larger, while the back is smaller, thus taking three adults in the backseat on a long trip would be very uncomfortable.

The 2009 Corolla offers five trim levels: base, LE, new XLE, sporty S models with 132-hp 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine, and XRS models with 158-hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder. The base, while cheap, lacks the power accessories, which the LE models add. The S model is equipped with the same features as the base model, only completed with sporty touches. The XRS, less luxurious than the XLE, has a larger engine and sport-tuned suspension.

The optional automatic transmission is a 5-speed on the XRS and a 4-speed on the other models. Safety features available include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, and front-side and curtain-side airbags. A navigation system, a first for Corolla, is optional on all but Base and LE models.