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2009 Toyota Corolla Full Review
Date Published: 9/16/08
Also in the 2009 Toyota Corolla Review:
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6.
Toyota Corolla Full Review
7.
8.
9.
2009 Toyota Corolla Review
The 2009 Toyota Corolla is redesigned with more available power, more standard safety features, and fresh styling. This compact sedan is 2.5 inches wider than the 2003-2008 version, but other exterior and interior dimensions are little changed. Corolla offers five trim levels for 2009 vs. three for 2008. Base, LE, new XLE, and sporty S models have a 132-hp 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine; this replaces a 126-hp 1.8-liter 4-cylinder. The top-line XRS model has a 158-hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder. Manual transmission is standard. The optional automatic transmission is a 5-speed on the XRS and a 4-speed on other Corollas. The XRS includes 17-inch wheels and 4-wheel disc brakes vs. other models' 15- or 16-inch wheels and rear drum brakes. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. A navigation system is a first-time Corolla feature, and it's optional on all but Base and LE models. Leather upholstery is an option exclusive to S and XRS. Note that Corolla lends its basic design and powertrains to Toyota's Matrix wagon and the similar Vibe from General Motors' Pontiac division.
News
A gas-electric Corolla is said to be in the mix, though it probably won't arrive before model-year 2010. The first hybrid Corolla is expected to use a new, more-compact powertrain that Toyota says will cost half as much to make as earlier systems. That should narrow the price gap with regular versions.
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2009 Toyota Corolla Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Fuel economy | Manual-transmission performance |
| Engine refinement | Rear-seat room |
| Steering feel | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
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. With the automatic, Corolla has enough verve for stress-free driving. The 1.8-liter engine has less go with either transmission, but it can still get out of its own way. The manual shifter has long throws and vague clutch action, which are frustrating for both daily commuting and sporty driving. Both automatics shift with satisfactory response.
| XLE, automatic | S, automatic | XRS w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 5 | 5 |
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. With the automatic, Corolla has enough verve for stress-free driving. The 1.8-liter engine has less go with either transmission, but it can still get out of its own way. The manual shifter has long throws and vague clutch action, which are frustrating for both daily commuting and sporty driving. Both automatics shift with satisfactory response.
Fuel Economy
In Consumer Guide testing, a manual-transmission XRS averaged 29.2 mpg, a reasonably frugal result even in a test where the majority of miles were on the highway. All Corollas use regular-grade gas.
| XLE, automatic | S, automatic | XRS w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.6 |
In Consumer Guide testing, a manual-transmission XRS averaged 29.2 mpg, 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
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 other compact cars. It's never jarring, though.
| XLE, automatic | S, automatic | XRS w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.1 |
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 other compact cars. It's never jarring, though.
Steering/Handling/Braking
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. Other models 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. Among versions tested, steering feel is poorest in the S, where gentle turns of the wheel can result in exaggerated motions.
| XLE, automatic | S, automatic | XRS w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 5 | 5.8 |
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. Other models 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. Among versions tested, steering feel is poorest in the S, where gentle turns of the wheel can result in exaggerated motions.
Quietness
Fine wind suppression with little road noise, especially in models other than the XRS. Blame the XRS's performance tires for kicking up a fuss on most road surfaces. The 158-hp engine is a bit louder than the 132-hp one, but both are quite smooth and refined.
| XLE, automatic | S, automatic | XRS w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.7 |
Fine wind suppression with little road noise, especially in models other than the XRS. Blame the XRS's performance tires for kicking up a fuss on most road surfaces. The 158-hp engine is a bit louder than the 132-hp one, but both are quite smooth and refined.
Controls
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. All audio systems adjust volume levels according to vehicle speed and come with an auxiliary audio jack. 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.
| XLE, automatic | S, automatic | XRS w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 5.7 |
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. All audio systems adjust volume levels according to vehicle speed and come with an auxiliary audio jack. 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
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.
| XLE, automatic | S, automatic | XRS w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 5 |
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)
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. S and XRS have extra lateral bolstering for better positioning in turns. Outward visibility is good.
| XLE, automatic | S, automatic | XRS w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.5 |
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. S and XRS have extra lateral bolstering for better positioning in turns. Outward visibility is good.
Room/Comfort (rear)
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.
| XLE, automatic | S, automatic | XRS w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 4.1 |
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
All models have 60/40 split rear seatbacks that fold to create a portal to the trunk. Trunk volume is less than in most compact sedans. 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.
| XLE, automatic | S, automatic | XRS w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 5 |
All models have 60/40 split rear seatbacks that fold to create a portal to the trunk. Trunk volume is less than in most compact sedans. 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
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 acceleration. The 2009 model doesn't stray from that formula, not even the sporty XRS. Aside from its reputation for reliability, 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.
| XLE, automatic | S, automatic | XRS w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 4 | 6.3 |
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 acceleration. The 2009 model doesn't stray from that formula, not even the sporty XRS. Aside from its reputation for reliability, 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 | 54 | 58.8 |
Scores for all Compact Cars
| Low Score | 48 | |
| Average Score | 58 | |
| High Score | 74 |
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2009 Toyota Corolla Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 08/12/2008
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| Base 4-door sedan, manual | $15,250 | $14,105 | $720 |
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| Base 4-door sedan, automatic | $16,050 | $14,845 | $720 |
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| LE 4-door sedan, automatic | $16,650 | $15,067 | $720 |
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| S 4-door sedan, manual | $16,320 | $14,769 | $720 |
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| S 4-door sedan, automatic | $17,150 | $15,520 | $720 |
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| XLE 4-door sedan, automatic | $17,550 | $15,882 | $720 |
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| XRS 4-door sedan, manual | $18,760 | $16,976 | $720 |
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| XRS 4-door sedan, automatic | $19,950 | $18,054 | $720 |
Price note: Prices are for vehicles distributed by Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. The dealer invoice and destination charge may be higher in areas served by independent distributors.
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
Base
Powertrain
1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine, 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, antilock brakes, brake assist, front-seat active head restraints, daytime running lights, tire-pressure monitor, emergency inside trunklid release.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, interior air filter, tilt/telescopic steering wheel, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, height-adjustable driver seat, center console, split folding rear seat, power mirrors, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, digital-media player connection, tachometer, outside-temperature indicator, intermittent wipers, rear defogger.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, 195/65R15 tires, wheel covers.
LE adds to Base:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Power windows, power door locks.
S adds to LE:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, trip computer.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: power windows.
Fog lights, 205/55R16 tires.
XLE adds to S:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Power windows, remote keyless entry, variable-intermittent wipers.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, fog lights.
XRS adds to XLE:
Powertrain
2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission, traction control.
Safety
Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, antiskid system.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, intermittent wipers.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: power windows, remote keyless entry, variable-intermittent wipers.
Fog lights, rear spoiler, 215/45R17 tires, alloy wheels.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
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Power Pkg.
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S, XRS
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$635
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$508
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Power windows and door locks.
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Sport Pkg.
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S
|
$1,495
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$1,196
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Cruise control, power windows, remote keyless entry, rear spoiler, 205/55R16 tires, alloy wheels.
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Leather Pkg.
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S
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$1,550
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$1,240
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XRS
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$1,490
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$1,192
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Leather upholstery, leather shifter. Requires Power Pkg. or Sport Pkg.
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All Weather Guard Pkg.
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Base, LE, S, XLE, XRS
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$150
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$125
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Heated power mirrors, heavy-duty heater, rear-seat heat ducts.
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Safety |
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Antiskid system
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Base, LE, S, XLE
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$250
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$215
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Includes traction control. Std. XRS.
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
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Navigation system
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XLE, XRS
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$1,300
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$1,105
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NA w/JBL AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer.
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Power sunroof
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S, LE, XLE, XRS
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$890
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$712
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Cruise control
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Base, LE, S, XLE
|
$250
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$200
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AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer
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Base, LE
|
$240
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$180
|
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S, XLE, XRS
|
$200
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$150
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JBL AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer
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S, XLE, XRS
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$1,060
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$795
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Includes satellite radio, wireless cell phone link. XLE, XRS require Power Pkg. S requires Sport Pkg.
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Satellite radio
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Base, LE, S, XLE, XRS
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$449
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$359
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Remote keyless entry
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LE
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$245
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$196
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Remote engine start
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Base, LE, S, XLE, XRS
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$529
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$380
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Requires automatic transmission.
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Cigarette lighter
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Base, LE, S, XLE, XRS
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$30
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$24
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Rubber floormats
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Base, LE, S, XLE, XRS
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$99
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$59
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
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Rear spoiler
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S
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$200
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$160
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Mud guards
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Base, LE, S, XLE, XRS
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$99
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$65
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Alloy wheels
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LE
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$580
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$464
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S, XLE
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$410
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$328
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LE includes 205/55R16 tires.
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Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
2009 Toyota Corolla Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Toyota Corolla 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 102.4 |
| Overall Length, in. | 178.7 |
| Overall Width, in. | 69.3 |
| Overall Height, in. | 57.7 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 2723 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 12.3 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 13.2 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.8 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.7 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.2 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 36.3 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| dohc I4 | dohc I4 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 1.8 /110 | 2.4 /144 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 132 @ 6000 | 158 @ 6000 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 128 @ 4200 | 162 @ 4000 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
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| 5-speed manual | 27/35 | 22/29 |
| 4-speed automatic | 27/35 | --/-- |
| 5-speed automatic | --/-- | 22/30 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Toyota Corolla 4-door sedan |
| Front Impact, Driver | 4 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 |
| Rollover Resistance | 4 |
| Side Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 4 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | 5/60,000 | 8-years/100,000-miles on hybrid components. |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 3/36,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 5/unlimited | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | None/-- | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
Canada
Drivewheels:
front-wheel drive
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
Also in the 2009 Toyota Corolla Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Toyota Corolla Full Review
7.
8.
9.
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