I purchased my Corolla new in August 05, just as the 06's were hitting the lots. There's no significant difference between an 06 (or 05/07 or 08 for that matter). Mine is a Special Edition which is basically the CE with 5 speed air, sunroof, power locks. Since I do a lot of commuting and winter driving, I also bought a set of Michelin Winter Tires and 4 steel rims. Ended up getting those at the dealer who matched the price from a well known Tire chain.

Am I happy with the Toyota...yes. I have put 100,000 km (60,0000) miles on it. I just did the 100,000 km service today and find out I still have 70% of my brakes left (lots of highway driving for me). In terms of maintenance, all I have done is oil changes, tire rotations, changed the rad fluid once and the manual gearbox fluid once, plus of course air and cabin filters and one minor brake adjustment. I have all the work done at a Toyota dealer who happens to be the closest dealer to my house. I find their prices are fair, but you have to be careful on the upsell--eg I will not get all their so called recommended service like injector service, power steering flush etc.

Mileage on the car has been great..not one problem in 100,000 kms for anything. Air conditioning is icy cold, and it has enough pep with the 5 speed for any kind of highway driving you need. I would highly recommend a Corolla to anyone wanting a well built car.
Amount Paid (US$): 18000
Condition: New
Model Year: 2006
Model and Options: SE