The new Corolla is the 9th rendition of that model and, like other Toyota products, the Corolla has been improving and moving slightly up-market with each succession. Since its introduction in 1966 (1968 in America), the Corolla has been the all-time best selling car in the world. More than 25 million Corollas have been sold in 142 countries. You can’t argue with success.

For 2003 there is no DX Corolla, DX has typically been code for “base model,” but now the entry level Corolla is the CE. The CE could hardly be called “stripped” as such items like air-conditioning, CD player, power mirrors, tilt-wheel and outside temperature gauge are standard issue.

In this case, it’s the S model that is of interest. Unfortunately the S does not offer any significant performance enhancements over the CE and more upscale LE. All Corollas are equipped with the same1.8-liter, twin-cam, inline 4. This is a 16-valve engine with VVT-i technology and is good for 130 hp. The S is essentially an appearance package (both LE and S models add slightly larger 195/65R15 tires), which is fine, but the introduction of an S version Corolla on a redesigned car had many hoping for a Toyota version of the Civic Si. Just imagine the redesigned, cooler looking Corolla with 16-inch wheels, stiffer suspension and a 180 hp 4-cylinder (from the Matrix?) under the hood – well, we can always hope.

The S does offer what Toyota calls a “body package” which consists of fancy rocker panels and more aerodynamic front and rear fascia. The S also comes with fog lights, map lights, white-faced gauges, leather wrapped steering wheel and gearshift knob, plus chrome accents. All told, it is a good-looking car that has a more youthful appearance than the LE or CE.

It is simply amazing how a car with a base price of $13,500 can offer such a high quality interior. The Corolla’s plastic dash and switchgear are typical of that found on cars costing much more. The look and layout of the dash area look a little like some Audi cars. Switches feel durable and are within easy reach. The audio system sounds exceptionally good, but lacks adequate mid-range response. Highs are sharp and clear, bass is deep without having to boost the controls up. The more expensive, sporty S had us wishing for a tape player in addition to the standard single CD player.

The S steering wheel looks as if it was lifted right off the IS300. Leather on the steering wheel and shift knob is of high quality in keeping with the overall theme of the interior.

The S offers the previously mentioned white-faced gauges. At night, they glow in a bluish/white light that looks kind of like an Indiglo watch – it’s very cool, and again unexpected on such a low-priced car. The only problem is that all other dash lights (A/C, stereo, etc.) are still green. It gives the dash a mismatched look at night.

Seats are comfortable and supportive. The S offers a height adjustable driver seat. The quality of the cloth is excellent, but it is too grabby. Whenever wearing shorts, the seat materials would get my pants all bunched up - it’s irritating. Rear seat room looks to be on the smallish side, but once seated, it’s readily apparent that this new Corolla has a much more spacious interior than the car it replaces. Four adults can ride comfortably, and even those on the tall side of the spectrum will find ample legroom.

The trunk is also larger and quite accommodating. During the evaluation period, we were able to fit a full-size baby stroller (not the $25 one, but a full-size Eddie Bauer model – it ain’t small), two full-size (loaded) suitcases, as well as some assorted tennis gear. All this stuff, and there was room to spare. It’s not just that the trunk is spacious, but the opening is wide enough to get the stuff in in the first place.

On the road, the Corolla S delivers midsize ride quality. The cabin remains quite for the most part – only aggressive driving upsets the pleasant interior as the VVT-i engine climbs through the rev range. The Corolla’s 130 hp feels neither powerful nor underpowered, but just right. A car like the Suzuki Aerio offers more power (141 hp) but is also a heavier car. The Corolla is an excellent all around car, but those expecting additional sport from the S model will be disappointed.

Handling is better than average, but again not sporty. The Aerio and Elantra GT offer more of a fun factor, but the Corolla is a better car in so many other ways.

5-speed manual shifts nicely. Gearing seems perfectly spaced, with fifth gear acting more like an overdrive of sorts. Fifth gear is perfect for long distance traveling as the RPMs and, as a result, noise is lessened. Despite the variable valve timing, the 1.8-liter engine has plenty of power low in the rev range. Nothing is more frustrating than a car with 200 hp, but only half of it accessible under 6000 RPM (Acura RSX perhaps??) The Corolla is not the fastest or most powerful compact on the planet, but what power it does have is useable in everyday driving situations – the result is a more comfortable driving experience. In short, the Corolla is a car you can use everyday and not get tired of it.

Safety Features include seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters, optional side impact air bags for front seat occupants, daytime running lights and optional ABS.

Overall, the 2003 Corolla is not just an enhancement to last years model, it is an all-new car that offers many standard features for a reasonable price. The Corolla is not the cheapest small car on the market, but with Toyota’s reputation for quality, most folks will think the price is worth it. That’s not to say the Corolla is expensive – it’s not. With a starting price of under $14,000 the Corolla probably offers more value than even other Toyotas. The S is priced at $17,000.

Amount Paid (US$): 16,556
Condition: New
Model Year: 1950
Model and Options: S 5-Speed