Technical

Two iterations of Toyota's 1.8L inline 4-cylinder are available with the Corolla. Between 2005 and 2006, output numbers have been revised due to SAE norms being revaluated. So, the CE, S and LE models are down from 130 hp to 126 hp at 6 000 rpm and to 122 lb/ft of torque at 4 200 rpm from 125 lbs. This version can either be mated to a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. The top-of-the-line XRS is graced by the presence of a VVTL-I (Variable Valve Timing with Lift and Intelligence) version that develops 164 hp (down from 170 hp) at 7 600 rpm and 125 lb/ft of torque (down from 127 lbs) at 4 400 rpm. A 6-speed manual gearbox is the only option in the XRS. Brakes are front discs / rear drumsfor all models but the XRS stops with 4-wheel discs. Suspension is front independent and rear semi-independent.

On the road

The reduction in power numbers has no effect on the car's performance. The basic 1.8L is still a healthy performer although it tends to get raspy and noisy when pushed. Power delivery is even and constant. For some reason, this past week with the Corolla went by in a flash. It seemed as though no matter what I did, I was always in a rush trying to get somewhere. Well, even when driven in a less than civil matter, the Corolla only required 8.2L of fuel per 100 km. A normal, not-as-mad, person could easily reduce that number to well below 7.0L.

The 5-speed box is easier to work than a garage door opener. The shifter glides from cog to cog without any hang-ups. The throws are fairly short and the clutch pedal is a smooth operator. The brake pedal, unlike most recently tested Toyotas, is nice and firm. Stopping power is good as I was swiftly reminded that this car has no ABS brakes.

The drive of the Corolla is quite serene. Some road noise does make its way into the car, although it is quiet overall. The combination chassis and suspension combine for comfortable cruising but will not let you down on the back roads. Steering is light and reasonably precise.

Safety

The Corolla has standard dual front air bags, optional side and side curtain air bags (LE only) available ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution and seatbelt pre-tensionners. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) awarded the car 5 out of 5 stars (a perfect result) for a frontal impact and 4 out of 5 stars (a good result) for the front and rear passengers in lateral impacts. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) has rated it a "Best Pick" in its category.