2011 Toyota Corolla Photo Gallery
Toyota Corolla - What the Auto Press Says
The 2011 Toyota Corolla ranks 21 out of 33 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 31 published reviews and test drives of the Toyota Corolla, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.In a class filled with cars that offer quality, reliability, comfort, good fuel economy and affordability, the Toyota Corolla is merely adequate.
The Corolla is struggling to compete against reliable cars that offer competitive packages that include affordability, top performance and quality cabins. Even though it’s not hard for the competition to top the Corolla, it isn’t a bad car. It’s fuel efficient and performs well, but the interior and overall fit and finish can’t match the Honda Civic or Ford Fiesta. Add a cargo hold that doesn’t match the Honda Fit, and the Corolla is easily forgotten.
Toyota has faced a series of recalls that threaten its reputation for producing reliable cars. The 2009 and 2010 Toyota Corolla were recalled because of faulty brakes and accelerator pedals. If you choose to buy a used 2009 model or a 2010 model on dealer lots, make sure Toyota has checked and fixed your car.
Other Cars to Consider
At $15,800, the Mazda3 starts at just a few hundred dollars more than the Corolla. It comes with similar standard features, but offers better performance and sportier exterior styling. However, there are two things to watch out for with the 3. First, it only offers 11.8 cubic feet of cargo space, which is a lot less than other affordable small cars. Second, most reviewers dislike the 3’s smiling front grill. Lastly, at 25/33 mpg city/highway, fuel economy is not impressive for the class.The Ford Fiesta is available as a sedan and hatchback, boasts one of the nicest cabins in the class and boasts stellar fuel economy with 29/38 mpg city/highway. It’s also an insurance industry “Top Safety Pick.” Shoppers get all of this at a $13,320 base price -- a great value compared to the Corolla.
Compared to the Fiesta, Mazda3 and Corolla, the Chevrolet Cruze is the most expensive, but will satisfy shoppers who like the Corolla, but desire a car with better performance and a nicer interior. Starting at about $16,500, the Cruze offers a spacious cabin that can compete with some midsize cars and comfortably seats adults in the back. It also has 15.4 cubic feet of cargo space -- about 3 more cubic feet than the Corolla -- and a nice list of standard and optional features. The Cruze is the perfect alternative to the Corolla, and it doesn’t cost much more.
Toyota redesigned the Corolla in 2009, so to save money, you should check out used 2009 models or look for a 2010 model that’s still on dealer lots. Check out our Toyota deals page for the best incentives.
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