Vehicle Strengths

Fuel economy leader; competitive pricing; quality interior material and superior control layout; terrific reliability.

Vehicle Value

While a loaded Corolla will run slightly more than other vehicles is the same class, the Corolla has made a name for itself by having great build quality and for being reliable. It also has nearly unbeatable fuel economy (EPA ratings as high as 31/42), and its 1.8L four-cylinder is quite peppy for its size.

Model Changes

The 2007 Corolla is the latest incarnation of the eighth generation of Toyota's progenitor of the affordable compact car. The sporty Corolla XRS has been discontinued for 2007, but little else has changed as the ninth generation is expected to be unveiled for the 2009 model year.

Model Overview

For 2007, Toyota gives Corolla buyers a choice of three trim levels: the base CE, a sport-themed S, and the luxury LE model. All have a 126-horsepower, 1.8L four-cylinder engine and can be ordered with either a manual or automatic transmission. The base CE gets standards such as power mirrors, air conditioning, and a CD player. Bumping up to the S trim gets fog lamps, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, power locks, and a handful of sporty exterior treatments. Power windows and remote keyless entry are all part of the LE.

Safety options such as anti-lock brakes, front side air bags, and curtain side air bags are available on all trims, while stability control can be added to LE models. Other options include cruise control, a rear spoiler, alloy wheels, a six-disc CD changer, and a moonroof.

The Corolla possesses a larger-than-average trunk and a 60/40 split folding rear seat, both of which make the car feel larger than it actually is. Its taut frame allows for smart handling in traffic, surprisingly so for a car in this class, and its EPA numbers (31 mpg in the city and 42 on the highway when equipped with manual transmission) are among the best in its class.