2004 Toyota Corolla: Road Test
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2004 Toyota Corolla ▼
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- MSRP: $13,570 -$15,580
- Invoice: $12,550 -$14,098
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Our road test for the 2004 Toyota Corolla includes a full evaluation of the 2004 Toyota Corolla from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2004 Toyota Corolla, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2004 Toyota Corolla help you decide if a 2004 Toyota Corolla is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| CE, man. | S, man. | LE, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
Test automatic-transmission LE did 0-60 mph in 9.7 sec, about average for the class. Manual-transmission models not that much quicker. Passing on two-lane roads requires caution, planning. We have not yet tested the XRS.
FUEL ECONOMY
| CE, man. | S, man. | LE, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 7 | 6.6 |
Test LEs with automatic transmission averaged a pleasant 28.5 mpg in a city/highway mix. Test manual-transmission S averaged an impressive 34.1 mpg with mainly highway driving.
RIDE QUALITY
| CE, man. | S, man. | LE, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.4 |
A strong point. Solid structure helps suspension absorb most rough pavement with aplomb. Body motions quelled nicely over bumps and dips.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| CE, man. | S, man. | LE, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.3 |
Safe, predictable front-drive moves, plus accurate, nicely weighted steering and good straightline stability. But cornering prowess limited by comfort-biased suspension and, according to some of our testers, undue body lean. S is no better despite sporty pretensions. All models have adequate routine braking power and good pedal modulation, but ABS is a must.
QUIETNESS
| CE, man. | S, man. | LE, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4 |
Disappointingly noisy. Engine raucous in hard acceleration, none too quiet in gentle cruising. Wind, road noise also marked above 60 mph.
CONTROLS
| CE, man. | S, man. | LE, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.6 |
Easy-read gauges, logical switchgear. Audio, climate controls of sufficient size, but some drivers will stretch to reach radio buttons. Interior materials won't disappoint at these prices, but not on par with class-leading Volkswagen. Some test Corollas suffered slight rattles, buzzes from interior panels.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| CE, man. | S, man. | LE, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.1 |
Comfortable, nicely padded seats. Ample head room, but leg space snug for those over 6 ft. Excellent driving position enhanced by standard tilt steering. Some testers find outward visibility compromised by headrests.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| CE, man. | S, man. | LE, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 3.9 |
No penalty box, but adults are cramped if front seats are more than halfway back. Supportive, nicely contoured seat. Doors open wide for easy access.
CARGO ROOM
| CE, man. | S, man. | LE, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 3.9 |
Trunk room typical for a subcompact, and rear seatbacks fold nearly flat to enlarge storage space. Front-seat interior storage space above class average, but no door or seatback pockets in back.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| CE, man. | S, man. | LE, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 7 | 8 | 5.6 |
Not as refined as it could be, but fine value for money and Toyota reliability qualify Corolla for Recommended status. Honda Civic, Ford Focus, and Volkswagen Jetta sedans have more spice, but no more utility.
Total Score
| CE, man. | S, man. | LE, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 52 | 51 | 51 | 48.4 |
Total Score: 51
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