The Corolla XRS handles responsively, however, whether driving along a straight stretch of highway or weaving through

The car's sport-tuned suspension includes a front damper mounted between the shock towers to improved the ride and control. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

windy roads. Much is owed to the car's sport-tuned suspension that includes a front damper mounted between the shock towers to produce improved ride and control without increasing noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels. The XRS suspension also features increased rate coil springs and shocks on all four wheels to reduce roll and pitch. Adding to the road-hugging performance, ride height has been lowered by 15 mm, and larger 16-inch aluminum wheels are coupled with 195/55R16 Michelin performance summer tires. It's a great setup all round. Stopping power comes via a set of 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS and EBD. Whether braking in the rain or shine, the braking system is responsive and stops the car efficiently.

Throughout my test week I was constantly impressed with different aspects of the XRS. It was so practical, easy to drive, and did I

The Corolla incorporates 390 liters (13.6 cu ft) of trunk space. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

mention practical? A couple of my mom's friends flew in from Hungary and I was delegated to pick them up from the airport. Since they would be spending quite some time in Canada they brought a few suitcases... each. But I wasn't worried because the Corolla incorporates 390 liters (13.6 cu ft) of trunk space which left ample room for the large suitcases plus a few extras. And even when the car was filled with 5 adults, we all sat comfortably. Even my 6 foot 3 inch "friend" had ample head and legroom whether riding shotgun or in the back.