Overview

The Toyota Corolla is a compact car that was first introduced in 1966. Over the decades, the Corolla has undergone many changes, including a transition from rear-wheel to front-wheel drive. The current model, a tenth-generation design, was all-new for the 2007 model year. The Corolla has been only slightly updated for the 2011 model year. The number of trim levels has been reduced to consolidate the lineup, and the sporty XRS, with its more powerful engine, has been dropped.

The Corolla is offered in three trim levels. The standard Corolla is configured with features such as cloth upholstery, air conditioning, tilt-and-telescope steering wheel, four-speaker audio system, and 15-inch steel wheels. The Corolla LE upgrade also includes power windows, power locks, cruise control, and a six-speaker audio system. The Corolla S - designed to be the sporty variant - includes upgraded cloth upholstery, a sport body kit, rear spoiler, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, and 16-inch alloy wheels.

All Corolla models are fitted with a 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine that is rated at 132 horsepower. A five-speed manual is the standard transmission on the Corolla and Corolla S, but is not available on the Corolla LE. A four-speed automatic is standard on the Corolla LE and optional on the Corolla and Corolla S. All models are front-wheel drive. The EPA rates the fuel economy of the 2011 Toyota Corolla between 22 mpg city, and 35 mpg highway, depending on driveline.

The 2011 Toyota Corolla starts with a base price of about $16,000 and tops out with the Corolla S model, which starts around $18,000.