With gas pains at the pump and a weak economy, the 2009 Toyota Corolla makes more sense than ever. Corolla may not have the cure, but 35 mpg is pretty strong medicine for those gas pains. At a base MSRP of $15,200, Corolla offers both a bargain and a way to help boost our sputtering economy.

The 2009 Toyota Corolla is the tenth edition of the most venerable brand in the Toyota model lineup. Such staying power is the result of Corolla consistently offering outstanding value, quality and livability. It’s no wonder many consider the Corolla to be the benchmark by which all compact cars must be judged.

The new exterior Corolla design is surprisingly sleek and memorable. Autoblog.com calls the 2009 Corolla XRS "one of the handsomest pieces of sheet metal in Toyota's U.S. lineup," featuring "speedy-looking bodywork." Kelley Blue Book (kbb.com) refers the viewer to "a trio of character lines" running from front to back, as well as a "low front air intake" that helps add "visual width below the Toyota signature mesh grille." Motor Trend finds that the new Corolla is "a longer, lower, wider" car than the outgoing model, which helps improve the car's appearance. Of the five trim levels available, the Corolla XRS is “by far the most noticeable on the road,” according to Edmunds.com.

For 2009, the Toyota Corolla features two engines and several different transmissions, allowing the Corolla to be basic transportation or a flashy sports sedan. Five models with ascending trim levels are available: Base, LE, S, XLE and XRS. Every model except for the XRS uses a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine with 132 hp, up six hp from last year. Reviewers find the motor propels the Corolla nicely with good acceleration. The transmission choices are a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic. The upgrade engine is a 2.4-liter four cylinder with 158 hp. It’s paired with either the five-speed manual or a five-speed automatic.

The EPA estimates the 1.8-liter engine will achieve 27 mpg in city driving and 35 mpg on the highway, regardless of the transmission. The 2.4-liter engine sees only a slight drop in fuel efficiency, posting EPA estimates of 22 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the federal government's testing agency, gives the Toyota Corolla four out of five stars for most impacts, and a full five stars for front side impacts. Autoblog writes that the 2009 Toyota Corolla has "airbags left, right, center and curtain" along with "seatbelt pretensioners" and "active head restraints." Edmunds.com adds that, "stability control is standard on the XRS and optional on other Corollas." Electronic Stability Control is one of those “must-have” options since it will enable the driver to correct a skid before it turns into a crash. Statistics show that stability control prevents accidents and injuries.

Driving the 2009 Toyota Corolla is quite enjoyable. Test drives confirm that Corolla is an excellent choice for commuting. The consensus is that Corolla provides a comfortable and controlled ride that promotes confidence. Corolla’s handling emphasizes comfort; of course, you can go with the XRS with its additional power and tighter suspension. Still, the Corolla impressed test drivers with its brakes that were described as being strong and free of fade.

The most enjoyable aspect of this car is the unusually high quality of the Corolla interior. The 2009 Toyota Corolla features a fit and finish level consistent with Toyota’s highest standards. The materials are very nice, and the cabin is noticeably quieter than Corolla’s competitors. Very little road or wind noise intrudes on passenger comfort, say most test drivers. It’s a quality that eliminates road fatigue and makes driving a pleasure. Motor Trend says the Toyota Corolla “must be the quietest car in its class, with less wind noise than many luxury cars.”

All five passengers in a Corolla will find personal room and storage space. Consumer Guide feels that, up front, "the seats are comfortable," and the back features "good legroom and foot space." Edmunds says the backseat of the Corolla has "plenty of space for children and for adults." When it comes to passenger room, Kelley Blue Book says that "legroom is increased a half-inch in front and nearly an inch in back" versus last year's model. Edmunds.com observes that, "storage is more than ample up front, particularly with the addition of a double glovebox.”

The base Corolla offers standard features such as air conditioning, power mirrors and a CD stereo with an auxiliary jack. The LE adds power windows and locks while the XLE features electroluminescent gauges, keyless entry and variable intermittent wipers. The top-of-the-line Corolla XRS includes chrome interior trim and standard cruise control. The options list is very complete with notable items such as an optional moonroof, JBL high-end audio and a navigation system.

For anyone shopping the compact sedan segment, the 2009 Toyota Corolla is a must-see, must-drive car. It’s so good, we are confident you will notice the difference and appreciate the tremendous value offered by this car.