In comparison, here's the long list of other compact rivals, all equipped with automatic transmissions:

Chevrolet Cobalt LT 1SA with alloy wheels and sunroof, $21,190
Dodge Caliber SXT with alloy wheels and sunroof, $20,570
Ford Focus SE (without alloys or sunroof), $18,549
Honda Civic DX-G (without sunroof), $20,680
Hyundai Elantra GL (without sunroof), $19,295
Kia Spectra LX Convenience (without sunroof), $19,395
Mazda 3 GS with Sport package, $22,190
Mitsubishi Lancer ES (without sunroof), $20,798
Nissan Sentra 2.0 S with Luxury package, $22,723
Pontiac G5 SE 1SA with alloy wheels and sunroof, $21,585
Saturn Astra XE 1SB 5-door with sunroof, $22,610
Subaru Impreza 2.5i 4-door (without alloys or sunroof), $21,795
Suzuki SX4 Sport (without sunroof), $20,095
Volkswagen City Jetta with Comfort package, air conditioning and sunroof, $21,825

The engine output hasn't increased in the last few years, but neither did the price. For what it offers, the 20th Anniversary package is well worth the extra dough; for only $150 more compared to the Enhanced Convenience package, you get the sunroof and alloy wheels.

If you are looking for a good reliable car, you surely cannot miss with the Corolla.

Conclusion
The Corolla is outdated, and its replacement will come along in a few months. Right now, though, you'll still get a good deal and a rock-solid car, although my test vehicle did suffer from an electronic throttle glitch and had to go back home prematurely.

The current-generation Corolla gets the job done without generating much adrenaline in its owners' veins. The price is right, and going from point A to point B can't be simpler. But if you think rice cakes taste like cardboard, you might want to check out some other compact sedans, because you might get bored behind the wheel of the Corolla.


Competitive price
Solid reliability and built in Canada
Low fuel consumption


Boring character
Not as powerful as the competition
Low on safety features



None


Photo Credit : Philippe Champoux