Toyota Corolla

The 2013 Toyota Corolla offers great handling characteristics along with one of the best fuel consumption ratios on the market. Unfortunately, beyond those characteristics the Corolla remains mostly lackluster. Consumers looking for reliability won't be disappointed and the price tag will keep them happy as well. Toyota's long stretch of market dominance in the small sedan category may have left them over confident, and unwilling to give the vehicle an overhaul. That has allowed for many other car makers to ramp up their efforts and offer what some may consider more impressive models at relatively the same price.

The Corolla is still poised to be one of the best selling vehicles of the 2013 model years. It is hard to argue with the quality and reliability that they offer, and the amazing price tag buyers will see. Five trim packages are available including base, LE, S, CLE, and XRS. Basic models come with 15 inch rims, AC, tilt steering wheels, limited power accessories. S models come with a little bit more like 16 inch steel wheels, fog lamps, leather steering wheels, enhanced audio systems, and sport style seating.

For a much improved experience consumers should consider an XLE. These offer the same 16 inch wheels as the S, wood accents on the interior, expanded center consoles, remote keyless entry, full power accessories, and a more than adequate audio system. XRS is far too different from XLE models but offer highway and performance tuned suspension systems, slightly enhanced rack and pinion systems for better handling, optional rear spoilers, larger engines, and possible chrome interior accents.

Other available options for all models include a moon roof, cruise control, ipod and Bluetooth connectivity, leather seats, and better stereo systems. Overall the cars are offered with only modest amounts of accessories, but enough to keep loyal customers satisfied for the price they will be paying. Competitors like Hyundai and Mazda have taken the lead in overall options offered in the small sedan class.

Engines include a 1.8 liter four cylinder that puts out 132 horsepower. These are offered with a 5 speed manual transmission powering front wheel drive, with a four speed automatic offered as optional upgrades. These smaller engines get a fuel economy of 26 mpg city and 35 mpg highway. Those numbers are nearly the best in the class, and the Hyundai and Dodge small sedans have a hard time keeping up. The larger engine consists of a 2.4 liter four cylinder that puts out an impressive 158 horsepower. Again the five speed manual transmission is standard equipment, while a five speed automatic is offered for an additional price. Models with the 2.4 liter engine get 22 mpg city and 20 mpg highway, still impressive compared with most competitors.

Standard safety features make these great vehicles. Common equipment includes antilock brakes, front and side airbags, curtain side airbags, and stability control. In crash tests the 2013 Toyota Corolla received a 4 out of 5 star rating for frontal impacts, and a perfect 5 star rating for side impact crashes. Interior options are plentiful enough, but overall construction is only mediocre. Spaciousness is relatively decent, but rear passengers may be slightly cramped during long trips.

For a budget car that offers reliability, the Corolla is still a competitor. Unfortunately, Toyota has chosen not to redesign many aspects of these sedans, therefore allowing the competition to pull ahead. Loyal consumers will no doubt still be impressed with their coveted Corolla models whether basic or high end. Consumers who do some shopping in the small sedan class will find that there are models from competitors that offer a lot more amenities and power, at similar prices.