New 2009 Toyota Corolla - Price, Photos, Reviews & Features

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The 2009 Toyota Corolla has more available power and standard safety features coupled with some updated styling. This compact sedan is 2.5 inches wider than its previous five versions, while other exterior and interior dimensions are little changed. Toyota offers five trim levels for 2009 vs. the three Corolla rollouts for 2008. Standard, LE, the new XLE, and the sporty S models have a 132-hp 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine; slightly more powerful than the Corolla’s 126-hp from last year. Top-of-the-line XRS has a 158-hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder.

Manual transmission comes standard. The optional automatic transmission is a 5-speed on the XRS and a 4-speed on other Corollas. Toyota says the XRS goes from 0 to 60mph in 8.1 seconds with manual transmission while holding its own for a strong, smooth ride with the automatic. Bump absorption is among best in class across the Camry board. Drivers will notice a firmer ride with the XRS, but it’s not likely to thrill enthusiasts. All Corolla trims are short on steering feel.

What is new in steering for the 2009 Corolla is an electric power assist that’s designed to save gas. Different calibrations give this feature a distinct feel for each trim; something to look for during your test drive. All trims come equipped with a tilt/telescope steering wheel.

Overall, the Corolla is a quiet drive. The seats are generally comfortable with good leg space in back. Headroom gets tight for back-seat riders over 5’ 8” and some may find the back entry doors a little small.

Interior gauges are deep set – XLE and XRS have daytime backlighting that helps readability. Audio volume levels for the AM/FM/CD/MP3 player adjust automatically according to vehicle speed; a digital-media usage auxiliary jack comes standard. A first time Toyota Corolla feature is the navigation system which is optional on all but Standard and LE styles. Unlike other Toyota models, the navigation system doesn’t include certain features (i.e. voice recognition), however the device is intuitively easy to program and use.

The XRS includes 17-inch wheels and 4-wheel disc brakes; other styles ride on 15- or 16-inch wheels with rear drum brakes. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags.

Leather upholstery is an option exclusive to the S and XRS trims.

In the works for the Corolla is a gas-electric hybrid, which Toyota says will be available by 2010.

Like a trusted pair of wingtip shoes, the 2009 Toyota Corolla continues to rank high in its class for a quiet, soft ride, valuing good fuel economy over lively acceleration.