Toyota Corolla vs. Ford Focus Review

Utility
The Ford Focus sedan and coupe both offer more headroom and a bigger trunk than the Toyota Corolla, while the Corolla wins on shoulder and hip room competition.

Performance
Powering the 2010 Toyota Corolla is your choice of a 132-horsepower, 1.8-liter inline-four or a 158-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder. The Ford Focus offers a 2.0-liter inline-four that is rated up to 143 horsepower, depending on options.

Fuel Economy
Depending on the model, the Corolla may have the edge in the fuel economy competition with 22-26 mpg city and 30-35 mpg highway results. The Ford Focus achieves 24 mpg city and 33-35 mpg highway, so at its worst it is better than the Corolla's worst. The Toyota Corolla models emit between 6.1 and 7.3 metric tons of CO2 per year, while Focus models emit 6.6 tons annually.

Technology
The Corolla and Focus compete with similar levels of power and audio equipment at comparable price points, with both top-end models making available a sunroof. The top-end Focus makes satellite radio standard while the Corolla leaves this optional. The Corolla offers an optional navigation system, while the Focus features Ford's SYNC infotainment system that includes Traffic, Directions and Information. Both vehicles also offer Bluetooth and media device connectivity.

Safety
Both sedans have antilock brakes and a full set of airbags. The Corolla heightens safety by including brake assist, while no Focus model offers this technology. The Corolla got Four-Star ratings in three of four government crash tests, while the Focus sedan wins with Five-Star ratings in two of four NHTSA impact tests. The two-door Focus also gets two Five-Star impact ratings, although the side impact ratings only reach Three Stars.

Other
The Ford Focus pulls up with more wins in interior metrics and better crash test ratings. Both sedans are similarly equipped, while the Focus gets the nod with the SYNC system. Ford's Focus also comes in at a slightly lower price than the Corolla. Meanwhile, the Corolla takes its advantages in power and fuel economy. There is no clear winner, unless you want a two-door coupe, then it's all Focus.