New 2010 Toyota Corolla Saves You Money at the Dealership and the Pump
For decades, the comfortable and reliable Toyota Corolla has quietly ridden the waves of consumer tastes to become one of the best-selling cars of all time. While not flashy or exceptionally fun to drive, the new 2010 Toyota Corolla delivers everything the average commuter could ever want in a car. Review the specs, features and mpgs of the new 2010 Toyota Corolla to determine if this dependable model is right for you.
New 2010 Toyota Corolla Styling
The Corolla was redesigned last year, and the new model retains these handsome updates. The vehicle is one of the more conservative models in the compact sedan class. However, crisp lines and a bolder front end help give it more personality over its predecessor. If you prefer a more aggressive-looking vehicle, then there are plenty of better options available to you.
If you like the exterior, then chances are you'll find plenty to like inside as well. The conservative approach continues with an environment that focuses on comfort and convenience rather than luxury. Fit and finish is average for the class, with materials that make sense given the $15,450 base price tag. Proportions grow a bit on the new design, allowing for good comfort in both the front and rear passenger seats.
Standard features on the Corolla include air conditioning, tilt steering wheel, power mirrors and stereo with CD and MP3 capability. At 12.3 cubic feet, several competitors best the trunk space offered by the Corolla. However, a number of stowage solutions up front help diminish this issue.
New 2010 Toyota Corolla Performance
The Toyota Corolla's driving experience might be described as "adequate." In terms of everyday driving, the vehicle offers plenty of power for getting around town, and commuters are likely to find little to complain about. However, competitors such as the Honda Civic and Mazda MAZDA3 provide a more spirited ride for about the same price.
The base model comes with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 132 horsepower. The thrifty engine benefits from above-average fuel efficiency, with an EPA rating of 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway (30 mpg combined). A more powerful 148-hp four-cylinder engine delivers 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway (25 mpg combined).
New 2010 Toyota Corolla Safety
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has labeled the 2010 Corolla a "Top Safety Pick." Standard safety features for the vehicle include front-wheel antilock brakes, six airbags and active head restraints. For 2010, stability control is also standard. For those who want the extra braking power of four-wheel disc brakes, the option is available on XRS models.
The Corolla's safety record has been tarnished a bit by Toyota's recent recalls. However, new models rolling off the line have been augmented to eliminate braking issues found on models earlier in the year.
New 2010 Toyota Corolla Pricing
The new 2010 Toyota Corolla comes with a starting MSRP of $15,450. This price is competitive with most competitors. However, if you're looking for a deal, then he 2010 Kia Forte is definitely worth a look. It offers similar comfort and mileage, as well as a bolstered standard features set, for about $2,000 less. More style-oriented models include the Scion xD, Volkswagen Jetta and Mazda MAZDA3.