Specials & Features

Along with the new Matrix, Toyota unveiled the 2009 Corolla at the 2007 SEMA auto show. The tenth-generation model features a redesigned exterior and revampted interior. The company also displayed a fully customized "S3" SEMA edition — and we've got extensive photo galleries for both.

For 2009, Toyota will offer the Corolla in five different trim levels: Standard, LE, XLE, S and performance XRS model. Standard, LE and XLE models will be equipped with Toyota's 1.8L Dual VVT-i four-cylinder engine — rated at 132 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque — and will return an EPA estimated 27/35 mpg city/highway. Transmission choices will include a four-speed automatic and a five-speed manual.

Corolla S and XRS models will be equipped with a 158 horsepower version of Toyota's 2.4L VVT-i four-cylinder engine. Although the sport models will give the Corolla a bit of added performance, the larger engine does affect the car's thriftiness, dropping mileage to 22/30 city/highway. Corolla S and XRS customers will be able to choose from a five-speed manual or automatic. The sport models will also feature a unique body kit.

Safety
Safety features on the all-new Corolla include standard driver and front passenger airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags and two-row side curtain airbags.

Front seats employ active headrests as standard equipment. When the vehicle is struck from the rear, a cable-actuated mechanism in the active headrest moves the headrest upward and forward to limit the movement of the seat occupant’s head.

Toyota’s Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard on all grades of the Corolla and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with Traction Control (TRAC) and an off switch is available.

Standard features
The all-new Corolla will come with a long list of standard performance and convenience features. All models will be equipped with a heavy duty rear window defogger, AM/FM/CD audio with four speakers that is also XM satellite capable, auxiliary audio input jack, air conditioning with air filter, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, and 60/40 split folding rear seats.

The sporty S grade will feature standard P205/55R16 tires with full wheel covers, color-keyed front and rear underbody spoilers, fog lamps, front sport seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, black headlamp housing, chrome exhaust tip and AM/FM/CD XM capable audio with six speakers.

In addition to S grade features, the XRS grade adds a rear deck spoiler, P215/45 R17 tires with alloy wheels, sport strut tower brace, VSC with TRAC and an off switch, XRS scuff plate, leather-trimmed shift lever and knob, cruise control and an interior chrome accent.

Options
Optional comfort and utility features include AM/FM/six-disc CD changer with MP3/WMA playback capability, satellite radio (subscription required) and six speakers, a power package that includes power windows and door locks. Additional options on select grades include JBL Audio system with AM/FM six-disc CD changer with eight speakers and Bluetooth, Navigation system with AM/FM CD with MP3/WMA playback capability and XM satellite radio with XM NavTraffic capable with six speakers, leather-trimmed seats and shift knob, tilt and slide moonroof, VSC with TRAC and cut-off switch.

Pricing
The base model Corolla — which will now be called the Standard instead of the current model's CE designation — will start at $15,250 for a five-speed manual car, with the automatic adding another $800. The LE model will sticker for $16,650, with the up-level XLE commanding $17,550.

The range-topping XRS model — which upgrades the Corolla's engine to a 158 horsepower 2.4L unit — will go for $18,760 with a manual transmission or $19,950 for an automatic.