2018 Toyota Corolla
An Automotive Love Affair
By Joe Mavilia
Overview:
This is the 2018 Toyota Corolla. Corolla was introduced into the US market in the summer of 1968. That is exactly 10 years after Toyota began marketing and selling their cars in the US. Surely they have come a long way in quality and in numbers. By 2012 they had produced 200 million cars and since then they have consistently sold over 10 Million cars each year worldwide. But they aren’t the largest car maker any longer since VW eclipsed Toyota’s record in 2016.
No question they are a very good car company but in today’s world the competition is stiffer than in the past, in my opinion. Technology has advanced so rapidly that one has to wonder what will happen to the automobile industry in the relatively near future.
I have been working with an Autonomous vehicle company and it is impressive how fast the concepts are being picked up by many metropolitan cities for the use of driverless cars. Other interested potential users include the major airline industries, Disney theme parks, Colleges, and many more.
“Beam me up Scotty” may not be heard any time soon, but the demand for cars in America may be taking a nose dive, as driverless vehicles are perfected. From what I’ve seen that shouldn’t be too far off.
General Information:
Assembly: Japan; Classification is Midsize; Vehicles from Toyota: 4Runner, Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Camry, Camry Hybrid, C-HR, Corolla, Corolla iM, Highlander, Land Cruiser, Mirai, Prius, Prius C, Prius Prime, Prius V, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Sequoia, Sienna, Tacoma Access Cab, Tacoma Double Cab, Tundra CrewMax, Tundra Double Cab, Tundra Regular Cab, Yaris and Yaris iA.
Handling & Performance:
Actually I was very surprised and impressed on the Crest Test mountain road course for a 1.8 liter 132 horsepower engine.
Styling:
Simple and I like it that way.
Fit and Finish:
Good and that is no surprise to those who drive Toyota products.
Cost:
Very affordable and the options that upgrade to the SE model are also affordable at $1,535 over base prices noted here.
Conveniences and comfort:
Very good features at this price point for a midsize car when you include the options. I like the lane assist but if it isn’t needed you can turn it off. To me it is a helpful feature but it can be annoying.
Consumer Recommendations:
Pay particular attention to the Smart Cruise feature in all those you test. I found this version isn’t as good as the ‘smarter’ smart cruises out there. The reason I give it bad marks is that it cuts out at 25-30 mph and when you’re used to full start/stop versions this one can be dangerous. Most these days, at the very least, will come to a complete stop before releasing control. Let me know what you think.
Recognized Competition:
Toyota Corolla $23,000, Kia Niro $24,000, Honda HR-V $23,000, Mazda CX-3 $22,000.
| Brand | $$$ Cost | MPG | Seating | Doors | Country of Origin | Assembled |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Corolla | 21,000 | 31 | 5 | 4 | Japan | Canada |
| Hyundai Elantra | 21,000 | 35 | 5 | 4 | Korea | Korea |
| Mitsubishi Lancer | 21,000 | 26 | 5 | 4 | Japan | Japan |
| Chevy Cruze | 22,000 | 32 | 5 | 4 | USA | USA |
| Mazda 3 | 20,000 | 32 | 5 | 4 | Japan | Japan |
| Subaru Impreza | 20,000 | 32 | 5 | 4 | Japan | USA |
| VW Jetta | 22,000 | 32 | 5 | 4 | Germany | Mexico |
Good News:
Economical to buy and operate, basic, good power and handles nicely. It continues to be one of the more popular offerings from Toyota.
Bad News:
Small size feeling more like a sub-compact to me. Another thing that is an irritation, for me, is the Seat Belt warning tone, that seems even louder than most. What’s next, the car can’t be started until you buckle up? That rubs me the wrong way because the Smart cruise has an almost inaudible sound when it drops control of the cruise function. My reason is simple, I want the option to turn off the seat belt bell. Or if it triggered a reminder periodically it wouldn’t be so bad. Hey, I’m just going next door or taking a turn around the ranch – Shut up !
Standard Equipment:
1.8 liter 132 horsepower 4-cylinder VVT engine, Continuously variable transmission, sport drive mode, 17”Alloy wheels, pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, dynamic radar, power steering, auto high beams, Star Safety system, power ABS braking with brakeforce distribution and smart stop technology, 8-airbags front, front side mounted, driver knee, passenger seat mounted side airbag, passenger seat cushion, front and rear side curtain airbags, LATCH child system, power heated side mirrors with integrated turn signals, rear spoiler, SofTex front sport seats with fabric inserts, power adjustable front seats, audio with 6 “ touch screen, multimedia bundle with AUX/ USB, Bluetooth, Voice recognition, Siri Eyes free 4.2 ” color monitor, backup camera, leather wrapped steering wheel with Audio & hands free phone voice command, steering wheel mounted paddle shifters, climate control, remote keyless entry, power windows and locks.
SE Premium package for $1,535 includes: Audio Plus with Navigation, multimedia bundle with 7” HD touchscreen display, AM/FM CD player, 8-speakers, Aux, audio jack, USB port with iPod connectivity and control, advanced voice recognition, phone, phone book access and music streaming with Bluetooth wireless technology, GPS nav scout link app, Siri eyes free, Sirius XM w/ 3 month comp, HD traffic and Weather, Smart Key system with push button start, power tilt / slide moonroof with sunshade.
Gas Stats:
28 City and 35 Highway MPG
$2.99 / Gal avg. December 17, 2017
www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.
Pricing:
MSRP $20,495 – with SE Premium Pkg – add $1,535.
Copyright © 2017 – An Automotive Love Affair