What happens when sensible meets sensory overload? When economic meets eye-catching? With the 2009 Toyota Corolla, your commute will never be the same. Slightly revised for 2009, the Corolla is perhaps more striking and confident than ever before. The front end is sleeker, edgier and bears greater resemblance to the immensely popular Camry. Despite the resemblance, the Corolla stands on its own as one of the most reliable, efficient and impressive vehicles in its class.
Aerodynamic and smoothly styled, the 2009 Corolla has been designed to turn heads. Ultra-modern, free-flowing lines and softly beveled edges give the newest model a striking and intriguing edge, a welcome addition given Corolla’s economic and sensible reputation. Multi-reflector halogen headlamps are sculpted into the front end aggressively framing the blackout front grille while available 17-inch alloys, a rear spoiler and a power moonroof bring a certain sportiness to the newest iteration. Power heated mirrors and integrated foglights bring convenience out of the cabin.
The 2009 Corolla is an unquestionable performer, blending ample power, superb handling and unrivaled efficiency into one affordable package. Beneath the hood, Toyota offers two equally impressive engines, starting with the base model 1.8-liter four-cylinder (controlled by either a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission). With 16 valves and dual independent variable-valve timing, the Corolla’s 1.8-liter produces a healthy 132 hp and 128 lb/ft of torque. The 1.8’s fuel economy is its most impressive feature as it achieves an estimated 35 mpg highway and ultra-low emissions.
For an additional boost, higher-end models feature a 2.4-liter DOHC four-cylinder. Capable of 158 hp and 162 lb/ft of torque, as well as an efficient 30 mpg highway, the 2.4 also utilizes variable valve timing for quick, aggressive engine response and smooth shifting (through a five-speed electronically controlled automatic overdrive transmission).
Steering is precise and responsive just as you’d expect from Toyota. Independent MacPherson strut front and torsion beam rear suspension systems give the Corolla a smooth, almost effortless ride while electronic power steering ensures tight, aggressive turning that’s both quick to react and fun to drive. The Corolla’s exceptionally nimble handling creates an even greater sense of speed and control, kept nicely in check by Toyota’s four-wheel antilock brakes and stability and traction control systems.
Inside, the 2009 model is the sensible sedan with the surprising amount of convenience and luxury. The large amount of interior space (particularly surprising given the Corolla’s small stature) is nicely filled by available leather-trimmed seats and elegant wood-grain or metallic-style accents. A multi-information display provides up-to-the-minute details about vehicle performance and outside conditions while amber illuminated or available Optitron sport gauges and controls wrap around you like the cockpit of a fighter jet.
In addition to the available touchscreen DVD navigation system, an available eight-speaker, 440-watt JBL audio system (with steering wheel-mounted controls) places six-disc in-dash CD, AM/FM/XM Satellite Radio and MP3 capability at your fingertips while Bluetooth wireless technology makes connectivity easier and more convenient than ever before. The Corolla’s subtle interior features such as keyless entry, a heavy-duty rear defroster, two 12V power outlets and any number of intuitive storage options make this year’s model extremely functional and practical as well.
The newest Corolla is an unrivaled leader in safety for the New Year. With six standard airbags, daytime running lights, three-point safety belts and high-strength reinforced construction (with side-impact door beams and front and rear crumple zones), the Corolla has been specifically designed to prevent, sustain and protect.
With a starting MSRP of just $17,250, the 2009 Toyota Corolla is certainly affordable, sensible and comfortable. That doesn’t mean you can’t have some fun with it.
