Simple, Straightforward Corolla Delivers

2009 Toyota Corolla XLE

model as tested $19,869

Test Drove 7/3/08–7/17/08
reviewed by Sara Lacey

Many of our favorite quotes, proverbs and sayings have truth to them, there’s no question about that, but some could be reworked to better fit today’s circumstances. For example, “It ain’t over till the band plays three encores,” or my new favorite, “Don’t judge a Corolla by its cover.”

Corollas have been around forever, and my bet is that they’ll continue to be around for a long time. That’s because they’re good, solid cars, just like the 2009 Toyota Corolla I tested. No, it wasn’t “more than you bargained for”; it’s the equivalent of “good people.” The Corolla doesn’t claim to be anything it’s not. It’s a simple, honest, straightforward car. You might think it’s boring, but Toyota has struck the right chord with a small car that has quality touches, lots of storage and a feel-good vibe.

It’s no surprise the Corolla is a popular car. In August, Toyota produced its 5 millionth Corolla at its Ontario, Canada, assembly plant. And did you know that Corollas have been available in the U.S. since 1968? That’s a pretty impressive couple of facts there, people. You like Corollas. I can certainly see why there’s no need to modernize the saying, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”

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