The new Corolla is perhaps the most radically styled yet. At first, I was appalled by the design, but it grew on me after half an hour or so. The interior is just as stylish (or overstyled) as the exterior, with a stacked design that looks like a fusion of the Yaris's and Avalon's interiors. It does look to be of much higher quality than the current Corolla.
More sounds deadening means a quieter interior, and a 3.9-inch stretch of the wheelbase translates to more legroom for the rear passengers. There is also heavier padding and foam inserts for the rear passengers, making it even more comfortable for them.
The engine is carryover; you'll find the same 132-horsepower, 128 pounds-feet of torque, 1.8-liter four cylinder under the hood. There is a new LE Eco trim level that has the same engine, but with a higher compression ratio and better valve technology. The LE Eco in turn gains 8 horsepower and loses 2 pounds-feet of torque.
There are three transmission options. The base L can be optioned either with the ancient 4-speed automatic transmission, or the new 6-speed manual (up one gear from 2013). The S and LE will come with a CVT transmission that mimics a 7-speed automatic. The S, being the sporty trim, can also be optioned with the 6-speed manual. The S with the CVT also comes with steering wheel-mounted shift paddles to control the 7 "gears".
In the LE Eco model, there is an Eco mode. That mode dials back throttle response for the first half of gas pedal travel and reduces the air conditioner's function. The LE Eco is said to get close to 40 miles per gallon on the highway.
The other trims should get better fuel economy than the previous model despite a slight increase in weight. The CVT and aerodynamic enhancements should allow for more competitive EPA fuel economy ratings the the current model's 26/34 city/highway ratings.
Standard features mentioned include power windows with automatic up and down for the driver, power door locks, Bluetooth, LED low-beam headlights and daytime running lights (a first among compact cars), a 60/40 split folding rear seatback, air conditioning, 8 airbags, and 16-inch steel wheels. 16- and 17-inch alloy wheels are available on other trim levels, and the S trim comes with a stiffer ride if ordered with 17-inch wheels.
If you go up the option ladder, you can get such niceties such as Bluetooth voice command for phones, Toyota's Entune multimedia system, SoftTex fake leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a Smart Key system.
Other than dimensions and features, not much else was released for the new Corolla. Expect more information to be out out closer to the car's autumn 2013 on-sale date.
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