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Posted August, 2007

Road Test: 2007 Toyota Corolla

By Kevin S. Lowery

The 2007 Toyota Corolla Sedan is one of the most expensive cars in its class. But if you’re a foreign buyer or a “foreign intender” you already know this. Whether you pay a little extra up front or get a little more back on its great resale value really is moot. Pay now; pay later. It’s six-of-one, half-dozen the other. Toyota also likes to tout their history of quality, longevity and reliability, not to mention their mpg ratings. While much of that was dramatically true in the 1970s and 1980s when domestic car manufacturers didn’t have a clue, the gap is closing in from products manufactured in this country as well as those from others.

Toyota’s philosophy is to create a quality car that looks good and has a decent amount of standard features. If you’re looking for an automobile with more stylish interiors or the latest high-end options, that is not the Toyota way.

For 2007, the XRS model has been discontinued but the CE, S, and LE models are still very much with us. Regardless of trim level, you'll get the same 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine and five-speed manual transmission that is rated at 126 horsepower at 6000 rpm, 122 pounds per feet of torque at 4200 rpm. The Corolla feels relatively quick on level surfaces, though it does struggle in high elevations or with a carload of people.

The Corolla’s suspension is adequate and makes for a similar quality ride. It's possible to negotiate quick maneuvers without losing traction. That is a big deal for a front-wheel-drive vehicle.

Inside, the Corolla’s cabin is full of details like firm, supportive seats and a rear seat that can actually accommodate two adults in relative comfort. The radio and heating controls, like most automobiles, are placed in the center section for ease of operation. The Corolla may require more of a stretch to operate the radio but if you like lots of storage for your minutiae or soft drinks (four separate cup holders) you will be pleased.

Exterior features include a tall body that raises the bumper height a few inches, a feature that comes in handy when tapping bumpers with today's larger vehicles. (Think Spanish Armada vs. the more nimble English Navy.) The styling is subtle. The sporty S model looks the best of the three trims, but offers no additional horsepower or performance enhancements.

The Corolla CE boasts a host of standard features including a 1.8-liter engine, five-speed manual transmission, air conditioning, rear defroster, digital clock, automatic headlamp control, power mirrors, AM/FM stereo with CD, tilt wheel, tachometer and full wheel covers. The S trim adds ground effects, fog lights, red illuminated instruments and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The LE adds wood trim, power windows, power locks, Optitron instrumentation and remote keyless entry.

We drove the mid-level S model. Its EPA city/highway fuel economy was 32mpg city/41mpg highway (manual), 30mpg city/38 mpg highway (automatic). The base price was $16,0505. Optional equipment included a six-disc in-dash CD with eight speakers, ABS (Antilock Brake System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) and a tire pressure monitor. The Enhanced Power Package included: power windows, remote keyless entry and cruise control. The Sports Plus Package included alloy wheels and rear deck spoiler. Throw in carpet floor mats, a cargo net, and delivery charges and the total was $18,794.