Introduced in the 2009 model year, the 10^th 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.