The cabin integrates comfortable upholstered seats in both front and rear, tilt steering, AM/FM CD player with 4-speakers, and a dual-trip odometer with an outside temperature gauge. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

Other than the sometimes fussy gearbox, I didn't have any major beefs with the Canadian-made Corolla. Visibility is good from the front windshield and the blind spots, although out the rear window is a little trickier because the trunk sits fairly high. The cabin integrates comfortable upholstered seats in both front and rear, while tilt steering, an AM/FM CD player with 4-speakers, and a dual-trip odometer with an outside temperature gauge, made it feel a little more upscale than the base Corolla. And for a mere $18, 755, $3K and change more than the base Corolla, which starts at $15,615, it seems like a hot deal for such cool features - especially in the sweltering heat.

In the end, the 2005 Corolla CE Special Edition combines enjoyable driving dynamics, comfort and reliability into one affordable package.


Specifications:

Price (MSRP): $18, 755
Body Type: 4-door sedan
Layout: front engine, FWD
Engine: 126 hp, 122 lb-ft of torque, 1.8-L, DOHC, 16-valve I-4
Transmission: 5-spd manual (opt. auto)
Brakes (front/rear): disc/drum,
Curb Weight: 1,155 kg (2,550 lbs)
Seating Capacity: 5
Cargo Volume (trunk): 390 L (13.6 cu ft)
Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 7.1 / 5.3 L/100km
Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 km comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
Direct Competitors: Chevrolet Cobalt, Dodge SX 2.0 / Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, Mazda3, Mitsubishi Lancer, Nissan Sentra, Pontiac Pursuit, Saturn ION, Subaru Impreza, Suzuki Aerio, VW Golf / Jetta
Web Site: www.toyota.ca