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Acceleration
"Test automatic-transmission LE did 0-60 mph in 9.7 sec, about par for the class.
Manual-transmission models not that much quicker. Passing on 2-lane roads requires
caution, planning. XRS has more power for passing and merging, but feels lethargic
on takeoff."
Value
"It's not as refined as it could be, but fine value for the money and Toyota
reliability earn Recommended status for Corolla. Ford Focus, Honda Civic, and
Mazda 3 sedans have more spice, but no more utility, though they also offer wagons
and/or hatchbacks."
Ride
"Solid structure helps suspension absorb most rough pavement with aplomb. Body
motions nicely quelled over bumps and dips, though XRS a bit choppier on its
firmer suspension, lower-profile tires."
Economy
"Test LEs with automatic transmission averaged a budget-pleasing 28.5 mpg in
city/highway driving. A manual-transmission S logged an impressive 34.1 mpg with
mainly highway miles. XRS averaged 30.3 mpg. Toyota recommends premium-grade
fuel for XRS, regular otherwise."
Noise
"Disappointingly noisy. Engines raucous in hard acceleration, none too quiet
in gentle cruising. Wind, road noise also marked above 60 mph."
Comfort - Front
"Seats nothing special, but comfortable enough. Ample head room, but leg space
snug for those over 6-ft. Excellent driving position enhanced by standard tilt
steering wheel. Some testers find outward visibility compromised by headrests."
Comfort - Rear
"No penalty box, but adults are cramped if front seats are more than halfway
back. Bench seat supportive, nicely contoured. Doors open wide for easy entry/exit."
Controls
"Easy-read gauges, logical and mostly handy controls, though some testers say
radio is a stretch. Interior materials are in line with prices, but not on par
with class-leading Volkswagen. Some test Corollas suffered minor interior rattles
and buzzes."
Cargo Room
"Trunk room typical for a compact sedan. All but XRS model have rear seatbacks
that fold nearly flat for extra space. Interior storage space above class average
in front, but there's nothing special in back."
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