TOYOTA’s newest Corolla model sets out to live up to this Japanese marque’s high reliability standards.
Always among the prime reasons for choosing a Corolla, the newest model is just as, if not more, reliable than previous models. Fuel economy is another main factor with the Corolla and the base model has an efficient 1.8 litre four-cylinder engine.
A more powerful 2.4 litre inline-4 is offered with the XRS model, to match competitors’ options.
There is plenty of room for choice within the new Corolla model, with two engines and five trim levels. In this area it has an advantage over most of its competitors. The five levels: base, LE, S, XLE and XRS have a wide variety of options available to the consumer.
For example, the Corolla S comes complete with 16” steel wheels, full underbody spoilers, sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, foglights and an extra pair of stereo speakers. Heated mirrors and satellite radio are optional right across the board.
Some of the interior features include a leather-trimmed steering wheel with audio control, an AM/FM CD player with MP3 with playback capability, accompanied by six speakers, unique sports fabric seats and a driver’s seat height adjuster.
A telescopic steering wheel is a welcome addition, making for a more comfortable driving position and other, useful features like an auxiliary audio input, a navigation system with real-time traffic updates and a keyless startup are excellent additions to previous models.
One of the safest vehicles on the market, the new Corolla is equipped with antilock brakes, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and active front head restraints. Stability control is optional on all models, bar the XRS, where it is standard.
Overall, this redesigned 2009 model is reliable, promising a controlled and comfortable ride. The handling in the XRS model is much crisper and smoother than the other four levels, thanks to its electric steering. The car is slightly larger, both internally and externally, than the last model. It is likely to retain its popularity with this new model.
Check it out at O’Mara Motors, Ballysimon Road and at Brian Geary Car Sales.
