Following a complete redesign last year, the 2015 Toyota Corolla remains the same as its one year older sibling with a few minor exceptions.
The new edition of the best-selling car in history now has a fold-down real center armrest in all trims except the base L model. The Toyota Corolla for years has had a lengthy list of standard features, and it’s now even better. The upper level trims for 2015 get the Driver Convenience package as standard equipment.
The Weekly Driver Test Drive
The S trim premium was my weekly test drive, and it’s most equipped of the four Toyota Corolla trims, which also include L, LE and LE Eco. All models have a four-cylinder engine. A manual transmission is standard. But the options include a four-speed automatic and a continuously variable transmission.
I drove the latter option. Like the 2014 model, this year’s Toyota Corolla is a keen reminder of the definition of reliable transportation. Like many smaller sedans, the Corolla is rated to seat five, but it’s more comfortable for four adults. It’s front-wheel drive and powered by a 1.8-liter, 16-value engine with 140 horsepower.
The S trim (premium/plus) has 17-inch alloy wheels, firmer suspension tuning and rear disc brakes (versus the standard drums). The exact list of features on the “upscale” Corolla is slightly confusing. Overall, the S Premium starts with the S Plus’ equipment and shares the upgrades of the other Premium models, including the premium vinyl upholstery.
Driving the Corolla can be spirited. As a small sedan, the top-line has some spunk, although it shouldn’t be mistaken for a sports car on any level. The drive is smooth and steady, and the vision is good and void of any blindspots.
I like the layout and functionality of the gauges and dials. The navigation system is ideally placed and the six-inch screen offers a clear picture and sound directions with plenty of advance warning.
Several reviews of the new Toyota have cited its generic presentation and personality. The entry level L trim is a basic vehicle, yes. And that’s a good reason to consider upper levels.
Likes:
Spacious interior, particularly for its segment.
Strong fuel economy.
Lengthy standard features list.
Comfortable ride.
Dislikes:
Not the quickest small sedan in industry.
Facts & Figures: 2015 Toyota Corolla
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4-cylinder, 1.8L |
| Horsepower | 140 |
| Transmission | Automatic (AV-S7) |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Economy | 28 city / 36 hwy / 31 combined mpg |
| Fuel Type | Regular Gasoline |
| Airbags | 8 |
| Warranty | Bumper to bumper, 3 years/36,000 Powertrain, 5 years/60,000 miles; Corrosion, 5 years/unlimited miles |
| Acceleration | 0-60 mph, unavailable |
| Fuel economy | 29 mpg (city), 37 mpg (highway), 32 mpg (combined) six-speed automatic transmission |
| Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price | $22,905.00 |
| Price As Tested | $24,659.00 |
James Raia
A sports, travel and business journalist for more than 45 years, James has written the new car review column The Weekly Driver since 2004. In addition to founding this site in 2004, James writes a Sunday automotive column for The San Jose Mercury and East Bay Times in Walnut Creek, Calif., and monthly auto review and wellness columns for Gulfshore Business, a magazine in Southwest Florida. An author and contributor to many newspapers, magazines and online publications, co-hosted The Weekly Driver Podcast from 2017 to 2024.