Chevrolet's version of the Toyota Corolla gets a little more power and added standard features for 2000. Prizm returns with base and uplevel LSi sedans powered by a Toyota-designed 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine that now gains 5 horsepower with the addition of variable valve timing. Manual transmission is standard, 3- and 4-speed automatics optional. Front seatbelt pre-tensioners remain standard, too. Antilock brakes return at extra cost, as do front side airbags.
Also for 2000, the base Prizm gains standard air conditioning like the LSi, plus 4-speaker AM/FM stereo and full wheel covers. LSi standards expand to include slightly wider 185/65R14 tires, power windows, rear defroster, tilt steering wheel, and a tachometer with outside temperature gauge, all of which had been options. Despite their design similarity, Prizm is outsold by Corolla 4-1.
The 2001 edition of the Prizm began trickling into showrooms this past spring, but unlike the Toyota Corolla on which it's based, Prizm received virtually no changes. Prizm's performance and accommodations mirror those of comparable Corolla models.