2008 Toyota Corolla: Road Test
2008 Toyota Corolla ▼
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- MSRP: $14,405 -$16,415
- Invoice: $13,324 -$14,855
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Our road test for the 2008 Toyota Corolla includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Toyota Corolla from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Toyota Corolla, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Toyota Corolla help you decide if a 2008 Toyota Corolla is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| CE, manual | S, manual | LE, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.8 |
An automatic-transmission LE did 9.7 sec 0-60 mph in our test. That's slightly below the class average. Manual-transmission models are not that much quicker. Passing on two-lane roads requires planning.
FUEL ECONOMY
| CE, manual | S, manual | LE, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 7 | 6.6 |
In Consumer Guide testing, LEs with automatic transmission averaged 27.1-28.5 mpg in city/highway driving. A manual-transmission S averaged a frugal 34.1 mpg in mostly highway driving. Corolla uses regular-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| CE, manual | S, manual | LE, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.2 |
Despite an aged design, Corolla still has a solid structure that helps the suspension absorb most rough pavement with aplomb. Body motions are nicely quelled over bumps and dips.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| CE, manual | S, manual | LE, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.9 |
Cornering ability is modest due to comfort-biased suspension tuning and marked body lean, even in the S model. All have adequate routine braking control and good pedal modulation, but ABS is a must. Toyota should make it standard.
QUIETNESS
| CE, manual | S, manual | LE, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.5 |
Disappointingly noisy. The engines are raucous in hard acceleration and none too quiet in gentle cruising. Wind and road noise are also marked above 60 mph.
CONTROLS
| CE, manual | S, manual | LE, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.7 |
Easy-read gauges, logical and mostly handy controls, though some testers say the radio is a stretch.
DETAILS
| CE, manual | S, manual | LE, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.2 |
Interior materials are appropriate for the price. Some test Corollas suffered minor interior rattles and buzzes.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| CE, manual | S, manual | LE, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.7 |
The seats are nothing special, but comfortable enough. There's ample headroom, but leg space is snug for six-footers. Some testers find the driving position uncomfortable. Outward visibility compromised by tall headrests.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| CE, manual | S, manual | LE, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 4.1 |
Adults are cramped if the front seats are set far back. The bench seat is supportive and nicely contoured. Doors open wide for easy entry/exit.
CARGO ROOM
| CE, manual | S, manual | LE, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 4.9 |
Trunk room is typical for a compact sedan. All have rear seatbacks that fold nearly flat for extra space. Interior storage space is above the class average.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| CE, manual | S, manual | LE, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 6 | 6.2 |
Corolla offers reasonable value for the money. The redesigned model can't come soon enough, though, as this compact feels old compared to the Honda Civic or Nissan Versa.
Total Score
| CE, manual | S, manual | LE, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 54 | 53 | 53 | 58.8 |
Total Score: 53
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