Introduced in the 2009 model year, the 10th generation Corolla continues to demand attention in the compact sedan segment. While Corolla isn’t draped in all the latest gadgets, its practical adornments aren’t limited to the top-of-the-line Corolla XRS. In the 2010 model year, all five Corolla models (base, LE, SLE, S, and XRS) are now fitted with vehicle stability/traction control as standard equipment. (All Corollas have a number of safety standards, including front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, and rear curtain side airbags.) On the comfort side of the equation, Corolla’s standard fare includes 60/40 split folding rear seats, tilt/telescopic steering wheel, 12-volt power outlets, air conditioning, and more than 16 cubic feet of trunk space.

Corolla offers a choice of 4-cylinder engines, including a 1.8-liter engine that generates 132 horsepower at 6000 rpm/128 pounds-feet of torque at 4400 rpm. The 102.4-inch wheelbase sedan’s interior puts an emphasis on easy-to-reach controls. Corolla’s sculpted dashboard brow is not only visually appealing, but it helps keep sunlight glare from the gauges. The lower portion of the center stack includes a digital clock. But checking the time is difficult to do in a quick eye-scan given the clock’s location. The front wheel drive Corolla LE with 1.8-liter engine and 4-speed automatic transmission collects estimated mpg of 26 city and 34 highway and carries a MSRP of $16,750.