Who could have known that 50 years ago, a little econobox on wheels would become the best-selling car in history? That would be the Toyota Corolla, now a half-century old.
The 2016 Toyota Corolla, two years removed from a redesign, represents the milestone with its usual array of trim levels plus a Special Edition.
Last year, the minor additions to the Corolla included a fold-down real center armrest in all trims except the base L model and a Driver Convenience package as standard equipment.
New Corolla Honors Sedan‘s Legacy
The Weekly Driver Test DriveThe Special Edition was my weekly test drive, an homage to the brand and limited to 8,000 units. Its basic are the S Plus trim, plus a host of add-ons. The S Plus trim includes 17-inch alloy wheels, firmer suspension tuning rear disc brakes (versus the standard drums) and eligibility for the sunroof and Driver Convenience package.
The Special Edition also has a continuously variable transmission and the alloy wheels have a gloss black finish, which several observers commented on. There’s also extra badging, keyless entry and ignition and an all-black interior with red contrast stitching and red accents on the instrument panel. The sunroof and Entune Premium audio are stand-alone options on the S Special Edition.
Like previous years’ models I’ve driven, the 2016 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.
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 systems 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:
Strong fuel economy.
Lengthy standard features list.
Comfortable ride.
Dislikes:
Tight front seats.
Not the quickest small sedan in the industry.
Facts & Figures: 2016 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, 9.6 seconds |
| Fuel economy | 29 mpg (city), 37 mpg (highway), 32 mpg (combined) six-speed continuously variable transmission |
| Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price | $20,635.00 |
| Price As Tested | $23,520.00 |
Article Last Updated: March 31, 2026.
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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.