(1.8L 4-cyl. 4-speed Automatic)
What our ratings include
Driver:
Date Driven: 5/10/2011
(2011 Corolla LE)
Performance
Tepid acceleration and underwhelming fuel economy from the 132-hp 1.8L engine might be improved if power could be spread over more than just four, widely spaced gears. Desperately in need of a 5-speed automatic.
Driving Dynamics
Steering is both vague and lifeless. Handling is unpredictable due to excessive body roll, unresponsive steering, and ultra-conservative stability control. This is not a fun-to-drive car in the least.
Ride Comfort
With such conservative suspension settings, we expected the Corolla LE's ride to be comfortable. There is such a thing as too soft and springy, however. The car needs more sophisticated damper tuning to offer more than a floaty ride.
Quietness
Very good isolation from engine, road and wind noise
Ergonomics
All controls are universally well-placed, intuitive and legible at a glance.
Visibility
Typical sedan sightlines without any gaffes like a giant A-pillar. No reverse camera or blind-spot monitoring available. Halogen headlamps across all models, foglights available on LE and standard on S trim level.
Seat Access & Space
For a compact car, the Corolla offers more than ample seating accommodations, front and rear, easy ingress/egress and standard tilt/telescope wheel. Fine for four, tight for five passengers.
Cargo & Storage
At 12.3 cubic-feet, the Corolla's luggage volume is on the large end of small. Standard 60/40 split-fold rear seats offer long-cargo flexibility. Interior small-storage is adequate.
Build Quality
We've noticed a trend in the past couple of years with Toyota's build quality declining. There are mismatched seams, wobbly knobs and other things that never used to be found in a Toyota.
