The 2017 Toyota Corolla marks the enduring sedan’s 51st year. Through 11 generations, the former econobox-on-wheels has lifetime worldwide sales of 43 million through last year. Since 1997, when it surpassed the Volkswagen Beetle, the Corolla remains the best-selling car in history.
A new generation arrived in 2012, with yearly updates since. In 2016, Toyota began to offer a limited special edition to celebrate the car’s 50th anniversary.
Key Takeaways
- Test car: Corolla XSE, front-wheel drive with a 1.8-liter, 132-horsepower engine and a continuously variable transmission.
- $22,680 MSRP and $23,520 as tested.
- 0-60 mph in 9.2 seconds.
- 28 mpg city, 35 highway and 31 combined.
- Safety: a rearview camera, forward collision warning, lane departure intervention and adaptive cruise control are standard on all models.
- Reliability: Like previous years’ models I’ve driven, the 2017 Toyota Corolla is a keen reminder of the definition of reliable transportation.
While competition remains intense, the 2017 Toyota Corolla keeps up with new safety and driving improvements, some not standard on luxury sedans. A rearview camera, forward collision warning, lane departure intervention and adaptive cruise control are now standard on all models.
The Weekly Driver Test Drive
The compact sedan market may be the most competitive in the automotive industry. The Toyota Corolla is matched against the Chevrolet Cruze, Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, Kia Forte, Mazda3 and Volkswagen Golf. All of the vehicles are strong all-around choices, with the Civic and Mazda3 the more sporting, fun-to-drive offerings.
Trims and Equipment
The 2017 Toyota Corolla is available in L, LE, LE Eco, XLE, SE, SE, 50th-anniversary edition and XSE trim levels. Even the base L model has a healthy list of standard features, the XSE trim, my weekly driver, is an upscale version of the sport-oriented SE trim.
The SE trim features a continuously variable transmission (CVT) (a six-speed manual transmission is available), unique front-end styling with a black mesh grille, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters, chrome-tipped exhaust, 17-inch alloy wheels, sport front seats, a sport-style gauge and an upgraded Entune audio system.
The XSE trim adds a sunroof, keyless ignition and entry, heated front seats and an eight-way power-adjustable driver seat. A navigation system is part of an option package, but it wasn’t included in my review vehicle.
Driving Impressions
Like previous years’ models I’ve driven, the 2017 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, 132- horsepower engine.
The Corolla isn’t as quick as many of its rivals, advancing from 0-60 miles per hour in a pedestrian 9.2 seconds. Still, the little sedan has more spunk than its acceleration suggests. It shouldn’t be mistaken for a sports car on any level, but the drive is smooth and steady, the overall vision is void of blindspots.
I like the layout and functionality of the gauges and dials. The levers to increase or decrease the air conditioning, for example, are touch sensitive and sleek, an upscale feature. In addition to its upgraded safety and driving components, the 2017 Toyota Corolla, has an edgy front grille and side vents. The LED headlights and upholstery have also been upgraded.
Much has been said about the Corolla’s lack of performance, but on a long haul on Interstate 5 in Central California, I advanced with the flow of the traffic. I was surprised when I was approached 85 miles per hour. The Corolla advanced with little noise, and a steady, comforting and confident ride I hadn’t expected.
What Others Say: “If you’re looking for a small sedan that covers the basics well, the 2017 Toyota Corolla is a smart choice. Several competitors deliver more thrills from the driver seat, but a sensible blend of space, fuel economy and value give the Corolla broad appeal.” edmunds.com.
2017 Toyota Corolla Verdict
The 2017 Toyota Corolla has it all. It may not be the quickest, flashiest or most fun-to-drive compact sedan. But it’s hard to think of any other car that possesses such consistency and overall functionality.
Likes
Strong fuel economy. Exemplary standard features list. Comfortable ride. Large trunk.
Dislikes
Mediocre acceleration.
Facts & Figures: 2017 Toyota Corolla
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Price | $22,680 |
| As-Tested Price | $23,520 |
| Engine | 1.8-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 132 hp |
| Transmission | Continuously variable (CVT) |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| 0-60 mph | 9.2 seconds |
| Fuel Economy | 28 city / 35 highway / 31 combined mpg |
| Fuel Type | Regular |
| Seating | 5 |
| Airbags | 8 |
| Warranty | Bumper to bumper 3 yr/36,000 mi; powertrain 5 yr/60,000 mi; corrosion 5 yr/unlimited |
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.
