2009 Toyota Corolla: Road Test
2009 Toyota Corolla ▼
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- MSRP: $15,350 - $20,050
- Invoice: $14,352 - $18,345
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Our road test for the 2009 Toyota Corolla includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Toyota Corolla from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Toyota Corolla, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Toyota Corolla help you decide if a 2009 Toyota Corolla is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| XLE, automatic | S, automatic | XRS w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 5 | 5 |
With the 1.8-liter engine and automatic transmission, Corolla has enough verve for stress-free driving. Models so equipped have somewhat touchy throttle response from a stop, but merging and passing moves require planning and a deep stab of the throttle. XRS has more than adequate power with the manual transmission. Toyota quotes 0-60 mph in 8.1 seconds, but it doesn't feel quite that fast. The manual shifter has long throws and vague clutch action, which are frustrating for both daily commuting and sporty driving.
FUEL ECONOMY
| XLE, automatic | S, automatic | XRS w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 7 | 7.1 |
In Consumer Guide testing, an XLE automatic averaged 31.8 mpg in mostly highway driving. A manual-transmission XRS averaged 29.2 mpg, also a reasonably frugal result even in a test where the majority of miles were on the highway. All Corollas use regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| XLE, automatic | S, automatic | XRS w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5 | 5.2 |
All models aim for smooth isolation and mostly achieve it. Bump absorption is among the best in class, and there's little bothersome float or wallow over highway dips and swells. XRS models have overly aggressive tires that result in a firmer ride than many rival compact cars. It's never jarring, though.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| XLE, automatic | S, automatic | XRS w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 5 | 5.9 |
Non-XRS Corollas suffer copious noseplow in fast corners and react sluggishly to rapid turns of the wheel. All have a usefully tight turning radius and excellent brake-pedal modulation. None has satisfying steering feel. The 2009 Corolla has electric power steering assist that's designed to save fuel. The system has slightly different calibrations depending on model, and it feels unnatural in all of them. XRS has sporting pretensions, but it isn't likely to excite enthusiast drivers. It has decent grip in turns and is reasonably quick to respond to steering inputs. Among versions tested, steering feel is poorest in the S, where gentle turns of the wheel can result in exaggerated motions.
QUIETNESS
| XLE, automatic | S, automatic | XRS w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 5 | 4.8 |
Fine wind suppression with little road noise, especially in models other than the XRS. Blame the XRS' performance tires for kicking up a fuss on most road surfaces. The 2.4-liter engine is smoother and more refined than the 1.8.
CONTROLS
| XLE, automatic | S, automatic | XRS w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 5.9 |
A straightforward, upright layout with no hint of a driver's "cockpit" feel. The gauges are unobstructed and easy enough to read. Controls are orderly and obvious. The navigation system has fewer features than systems in some other Toyotas--no voice recognition for example--but programming is intuitive, and the device is relatively easy to use.
DETAILS
| XLE, automatic | S, automatic | XRS w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 5.1 |
A noticeable step backwards from the previous-generation Corolla. Though nicely grained, many interior panels have a hollow, plastic feel to them. XRS models have a monochrome gray interior that tries to be sporty but comes off more as budget-grade.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| XLE, automatic | S, automatic | XRS w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.6 |
All models have a tilt and telescopic steering wheel. The seats are generally comfortable, but a lack of lumbar adjustment will pose a problem for some drivers. Taller drivers will wish for a bit more rearward seat travel. S and XRS have extra lateral bolstering for better positioning in turns. Outward visibility is good.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| XLE, automatic | S, automatic | XRS w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 4 |
Good legroom and foot space. Those taller than 5-ft-8 will find headroom tight. The seat cushion is a bit soft for best support. Small door openings make entry and exit a chore.
CARGO ROOM
| XLE, automatic | S, automatic | XRS w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 4.9 |
All models have 60/40 split rear seatbacks that fold to create a portal to the trunk. The cargo hold is fairly wide and tall but doesn't extend far forward and has a tall bumper lip, small opening, and intrusive lid hinges. A large, two-tier glovebox and small center console box handle most cabin storage. The front and rear doors have map pockets, but most of their volume is devoted to space for 20-ounce bottles.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| XLE, automatic | S, automatic | XRS w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 4 | 6.6 |
Toyota's take-no-chances approach has served legions of Corolla buyers who want a quiet, soft ride, and value good fuel economy over lively performance. The 2009 model doesn't stray from that formula, not even the sporty XRS. Aside from its reputation for reliability and strong resale value, today's Corolla puts little distance between itself and the equally conservative Hyundai Elantra. That would be all right, except that the Hyundai comes with nicer interior appointments, a stronger warranty, and costs less when comparably equipped.
Total Score
| XLE, automatic | S, automatic | XRS w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 54 | 54 | 53 | 60.1 |
Total Score: 54
Scores for all Compact Cars
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