Toyota's popular Corolla sedan is offered in five distinct models -- L, LE, SE, XLE and XSE. An Eco package is available on the LE. A very limited production '50th Anniversary Special Edition' model becomes available as well.
Every Corolla is powered by a 1.8L 4-cylinder engine and featuring variable valve timing. In the L, LE and S, the engine produces 132 horsepower and 128 pound-feet of torque, while in the LE Eco, Valvematic technology bumps output slightly to 140 horsepower. A continuously variable transaxle (CVT) is the standard fare for most Corolla models, but a 6-speed manual is optional on the SE trim.
All Corollas are easy on fuel. The LE with the Eco package is the champ, returning 34 combined MPG and an impressive 40 mpg on the highway. At the other end, the SE with the 6-speed manual transmission still manages a solid 30 mpg combined.
Front disc and rear drum brakes are standard, though SE and XSE trims upgrade to rear discs. Suspension is handled through independent MacPherson struts up front and a torsion beam in the rear.
Standard equipment on the entry-level Corolla L includes a 6-inch touch-screen stereo with Bluetooth and USB. Air conditioning, cruise control, power mirrors and windows, a 60/40 split fold-down rear seat and steering wheel-mounted audio controls. The Corolla LE trim and higher add variable intermittent wipers, keyless entry, automatic climate control, upgraded cruise control with distance pacing and a backup camera.
Upgrading to the SE models offer sportier appointments, with chrome exhaust, 17" alloy wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, sport bucket seats and a rear lip spoiler.
XLE Corollas offer 16" alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, an upgraded stereo featuring a 7" touch-screen interface, integrated navigation and SiriusXM satellite radio, heated front seats, Smart Key proximity entry and Toyota's SofTex seat fabric.
XSE Corollas have the 17" wheels, lip spoiler, the upgraded stereo, heated seats, smart key, a sunroof and a power driver's seat.
The Eco package, in addition to the Valvematic-enhanced engine, adds a rear spoiler. The Eco Plus adds an Eco Drive mode that modifies engine response and manages the air conditioning for even better fuel economy.
Toyota's pushing a standard safety package that is remarkable in cars at this price. All Corollas come standard with eight airbags, a lane-departure alert that will intervene to keep the Corolla in its lane, stability control, front collision warning and automatic emergency braking. Stability control and anti-lock brakes are, of course, standard as well.
Sporty Looks, Affordability
Reliability, Fuel Efficiency
Standard Features
The 2017 Corolla gets a few notable changes to the exterior styling, some interior improvements, a few new safety features and a new special edition for 2017. On the outside of the car, a new grill is flanked by new LED headlights, while a new 16-inch wheel design further spices up the exterior. Inside, the 2017 Corolla gets higher quality seating materials and a redesigned climate control panel. New safety features for 2017 include Toyota's Safety Sense-P electronics suite as well as a standard backup camera.
A new special edition celebrates fifty years of the Corolla, and includes a unique paint and trim color combo, special gray-painted 17" wheels and upgraded contrast-stitched upholstery.
The Corolla has been volume leader for Toyota for several years and the latest version offers buyers even more bang for their buck. In a crowded compact segment, against the Honda Civic, Nissan Sentra and Ford Focus, the Corolla stands out for its fresh, athletic styling, as well as its roomy, feature-rich interior. The LE Eco even offers best-in-class fuel economy. Add Toyota's outstanding reputation for reliability, and the 2017 Corolla deserves a place at the top of every compact car-shopper's list.
