Vehicle Detail

There is a clear reason why the 2010 Toyota Corolla will definitely be one of the best-selling cars in the country this year: Since its inception more than forty years ago, the Corolla has become more reliable. That alone, we suspect, is enough for many. But if these buyers turn to local Hyundai or Mazda or Honda retailers for more test-drives, they may see that the Corolla is far from the class leader it once was. It’s not a bad car in any way of thinking - that its rivals are better, while Toyota is more stagnant.

On the bright side, the Corolla offers an attractive fuel economy with a 1.8-liter engine that sells, and its ride is much more compliant than the standard compact sedan. Its controls are also accurate, though most cars these days may want the same. Alternatively, the Corolla lists any range from "unsurprising" (fast, seated) to "below average" (handling) to "poor with no recollection" (unspecified direction and artificial feeling). Even the interior is not home decor - from the previous Corollas.

Like other smaller sedans, the Corolla has a powerful engine to choose from - a 2.4-liter cylinder borrowed from Camry that produces 158 horsepower. It is only available on the sporty Corolla XRS, with fast steering, large wheels and front strut tower brace for sharp handling. Unfortunately, this model also failed to impress. Aside from the good roar from the big engine, the XRS does not provide a desirable driving experience, and its fuel economy is significantly reduced.

The 2010 Toyota Corolla usually does the job. But the Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra and Mazda 3 at the same price point are doing better, and they all have the same (or even better) modern-day reliability recommendations. We will also give the Mitsubishi Lancer a look, and the Honda Fit is another attractive option, which combines the top luggage space with a smaller one. The Corolla is likely to maintain its status as the world's best-selling car plate - but not because it is the world's best-selling car