1982 Toyota Corolla Reviews

Australia's favourite car in 2011 was the Mazda3.  The Japanese compact also topped the small-car class despite a solid challenge from the Toyota Corolla and opposition from more than 20 other babies.But does that make it the best small car in Australia today? There is only one way to find out, which is why we have the Mazda3 lined up against its toughest showroom rivals for the first in a series of Carsguide title fights.Picking the top four for this punch-up is - relatively - easy. We might like the idea of an Alfa Romeo, or the patriotism of a Holden Cruze, or the space in a Mitsubishi Lancer, but we would not recommend one of those to our best friend.And, apart from personal preferences and bias, that's what car choice really comes down to. Which car would you choose to drive away if it was your life and your money?The Mazda3 is an automatic choice since it's the reigning champion, and the Toyota Corolla gets an automatic spot as the number one contender. We also have to take the Volkswagen Golf because it's the best car in the small-car class - if not the best value - and the final spot goes to the Ford Focus because it's the sweetest drive and was a finalist in last year's Carsguide Car of the Year award.VALUEYou can spend just over $20,000 to put a quality small car on the road, but it's easy to go much higher with high-performance models such as the $39,490 Mazda3 MPS and $52,490 Golf R. So we settled in the midrange, where most private buyers spend their own cash, with four fighters with prices covered by only $2000. The Corolla Levin ZR comes in at $29,990 and the Golf 118TSI Comfortline is $31,990.All come with a host of creature features that just five years ago were standard only in luxury cars. Apart from being the cheapest, the popular Corolla is also a valued asset because it is easier to sell at trade-in and is the only one here with the security of capped-price service costs. It also doesn't scrimp on features with a totally keyless entry and start system that detects when you approach the car and automatically unlocks, Bluetooth, an MP3 compatible CD player, front fog lights, cruise control, moonroof, rain-sensing wipers, auto-on HID headlights and climate control airconditioning.Our Mazda comes with much the same gear, but this luxury version adds $3000 to the $27,990 price for Bi-Xenon headlamps, a sliding centre armrest console, leather seat trim and a 10-speaker Bose 242-watt sound system. The Focus Sport includes a spoiler, sports seats, auto wipers, Sony sound, leather steering wheel, dual-zone airconditioning and, since December, satnav as standard.The Golf is the only one here with daytime running lights. It also has an optional park assist system at $1400 and rearview camera at $500.TECHNOLOGYThe newest engine here is the Mazda Skyactiv-G 2.0-litre with an auto stop-start system called i-stop. It's not the most powerful unit at 113 kiloWatts, well down on the 125kW Focus However, Mazda's engine is married to a new Skyactiv six-speed transmission which is not only silky smooth but, together with the i-stop function, helps the vehicle achieve the best fuel figures of 6.1-6.2L/100km.It is marginally lighter on fuel than the VW which has the smallest 1.4 engine, but boosted to 118kW with a turbo. It manages 6.2L/100km due also to the transmission, a seven-speed DSG auto. Toyota's ageing 1.8-litre engine is the weakest with only 100kW and is relatively thirsty at 7.3L/100km because it only has a four-speed auto.On the electronics side, the Mazda and Ford have voice recognition and satnav, although the high-mounted screen in the Mazda is almost impossible to see in direct sunlight or for anyone over 50. On the low-tech side, the Corolla is the only vehicle with a full-size spare.SAFETYCarsguide takes safety seriously and all four cars have a five-star ANCAP rating. The Toyota and VW lead the pack with seven airbags, adding knee protection for the driver, while the Mazda and Ford have six airbags each. All have parking sensors to avoid carpark bingles, but the Focus and Golf have an optional self-parking feature which is a real show-stopper.DRIVINGJumping back into the cars is a reminder that small-car buyers have never had better choices than they do today. All four of the so-called babies have plenty of space, good performance and the sort of equipment that used to make time in a Mercedes-Benz special. But there are significant differences.Looking first at the champion, the Mazda's cabin feels surprisingly cramped and dark, there is lots of noise from the tyres, and there is also bumping and thumping on poor surfaces. The Focus is a nicely sporty drive, but the cabin controls are complicated and confusing and it doesn't seem all that big.The Corolla has the roomiest feel and update work last year has made the cabin a nice place, while the suspension is great. It's just a pity about the four-speed gearbox. And the Golf? We expected to drive best and it goes, but the cabin is dark and not particularly inviting, and the DSG gearbox - once a first choice with Carsguide testers - now has us worried. We get lots of owner complaints and poor feedback, and that's not good.VERDICTNo drum roll, no fanfare, just the bottom line: it's the Toyota Corolla. The world's favourite small car is my choice - back at the top again, after a long run down the field - as the best small car in showrooms today.The Mazda3 is still the people's choice, and consistently Australia's favourite, while the Volkswagen Golf is the class of the field and the Ford Focus is the most fun. But picking a winner in a very tight contest means I have no friends and must consider everything.The Golf is quality but you pay the price, the cabin is like a cave, and I cannot help wondering and worrying - after a string of owner questions and complaints - about the DSG transmission. It's a lovely car, and one I love to drive, but I could not buy one. The Mazda3 is, plain and simple, showing its age. The cabin is cheap, there is too much road noise and suspension thump, the engine is nothing special, and - even though it's a little thing - the satnav screen is tiny. It's nice, but not as good as I remembered. And the Focus, a COTY contender last year? The thing it does best, corners, is the one thing most Australians don't care about. It's a good car, but not a great car. And the messy dashboard and confusing switches drive me batty.In a field of four, the Corolla is ordinary but extraordinary. It sneaks up on you with surprising strengths that reflect a deep and long-term understanding of the real needs of small-car buyers. It's only got a four-speed automatic, but that is easily offset by capped-price servicing through the warranty period. The Corolla is the car I would be happiest to drive away and own, and that makes it my winner.Paul Gover Rating1. Toyota Corolla2. Volkswagen Golf3. Mazda34. Ford FocusToyota Corolla Levin ZRPrice: $29,990Warranty: 3 years, 100,000kmService: capped-price for 3 years or 60,000kmSafety: 5-star ANCAP, 7 airbags, stability and traction control, ABS, EBD and BAEngine: 1.8L 4-cylinder 100kW/175NmBody: 5-door, 5-seater hatchDimensions: 4245mm (L), 1760mm (W), 1515mm (H), 2600mm (WB)Weight: 1280kgTransmission: 4-speed auto, FWDEconomy: 7.3L/100kmVW Golf 118 TSI ComfortlinePrice: $31,990Warratny: 3 years, unlimited kmService: 15,000kmSafety: 5-star ANCAP, 7 airbags, stability and traction control, ABS, EBD, BA and hill startEngine: 1.4L, turbo 4-cylinder, 118kW/240NmBody: 5-door, 5-seater hatchDimensions: 4199mm (L), 1785mm (W), 1479mm (H), 2574mm (WB)Weight: 1330kgTransmission: 7-speed auto DSG, FWDEconomy: 6.2L/100km, 144g/kmMazda3 SP20 Skyactiv luxuryPrice: $30,990Warranty: 3 years / unlimited kmsService: 6mths/10,000kmSafety: 5-star ANCAP, 6 airbags, stability and traction control, ABS, EBD and BAEngine: 2-litre 4-cylinder, 113kW/194NmBody: 5-door hatchDimensions: 4460mm (L), 1755mm (W), 1470mm (H), 2640mm (WB)Weight: 1346kgTransmission: 6-speed Skyactiv auto, FWDEconomy: 6.1-6.2L/100km Ford Focus SportPrice: $30,190Warranty: 3 years, 100,000kmService: 15,000km/annualSafety: 5-star ANCAP, 6 airbags, stability and traction control, hill launch, ABS, EBD and BAEngine: 2.0L 4-cylinder, 125kW/202NmBody: 5-door, 5-seater hatchDimensions: 4538-4362mm (L), 2010mm (W), 1451-1484mm (H), 2648mm (WB)Weight: 1900kgTransmission: 6-speed auto, FWDEconomy: 6.6L/100km, 154g/km

The transformation of the Corolla introduced in 2007 reflected the changes taking place in the market at the time when small cars were in demand like never before.People were, and still are, downsizing to more efficient cars while still demanding they satisfy their every motoring need. It's a long time since small cars could simply rely on being cheap and cheerful with good fuel economy and be excused for lacking in features or refinement.These days they have to deliver on all fronts and the new Corolla was positioned to do just that. There were two body styles offered, a five-four hatch and a four-door sedan, with a choice of models ranging from the Ascent to the Ultima.When compared to the old model the new one was substantially longer and wider, as well as being a smidgeon higher. It was bigger all round. The mechanical package was what you would expect of the class, from the thoroughly decent 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine to the competent front-wheel drive chassis with independent suspension.If it lagged behind in any area it was probably the transmissions, for while there was a new six-speed manual, the auto option was a dated four-speed unit that was a gear short of what we needed to extract the best from the engine. If the new Toyota followed a fairly traditional, conservative path the new Corolla sported a new look that was hailed at the time.As much as it was welcomed it was still a conservative looking car, with a wide appeal across the ages, from young to old. That has always been the Corolla's strength and it remains so.It's an important factor when it comes to selling the Corolla, with such broad appeal the range of potential buyers is similarly wide.On the road the Corolla performed well, its tight chassis holding the road nicely for a secure and reassuring drive.IN THE SHOPToyota has a deserved reputation for the quality of its build, and its reliability once in service, and that is reflected in the overall level of satisfaction of its owners and the resale they achieve.That doesn't mean they don't break down or have frustrating problems, but any problems the Corolla does have tend to be specific and not endemic. Like all cars maintenance is key to a long and trouble-free run, so always check for a service record confirming that all services have been done as specified.Brake wear and tyre wear, problems with some makes, isn't a problem with the Corolla, both brakes and tyres last as one would expect.IN A CRASHSafety has traditionally been a concern for small car buyers, but the Corolla scrubs up pretty well on that front. With front, side and head airbags it is well equipped for the crunch when it comes. To get the benefit of electronic stability control you have to look for the 2009 and later models.UNDER THE PUMPToyota claimed 7.3L/100km for the manual models, and 7.7L/100km for those equipped with the auto, average numbers for the class. CarsGuide road testers reported 9.1L/100km when evaluated in 2007.AT A GLANCEPrice new: $20,990 to $30,990 Engine: 1.8-litre 4-cylinder, 100 kw/175 NmTransmission: 4-speed auto, 6-speed manual, FWDEconomy: 7.2 L/100 kmBody: 5-door hatchback, 4-door sedanVariants: Ascent, Conquest, Levin SX, Levin ZR, UltimaSafety: Ascent hatch 4-star ANCAP, all other models 5 stars.VERDICTDoes everything pretty well, build quality is good, reliability admirable. Sensible choice.

The first lesson for first-car buyers is to forget power and performance - go for safety, reliability and low running costs. Today's car choices are far wider and considerably less basic that Peter Brock's first car, a stripped-down 750cc Austin Seven. But the exercise of buying your car demands patience and - if possible - expert consideration.Compared with buying new, you will save money purchasing a used car. But be aware that a used car may require expensive repair costs, may be less fuel efficient and that its safety standards are likely to be lower than a new car. The basic safety gear you want are two airbags and ABS brakes.Every car is different because each has been treated differently during its life. Be cognisant that cheap new cars are bought on a budget and the penny-pinching owners may skimp on regular servicing and repairs. Steer away from hotted-up cars - you want reliable, easy-to-fix transport here, not a temperamental, ground-hugging runt that sounds like it's lost its exhaust pipe.There are a few quality used car models that have lasted the distance. These have retained a solid reputation for quality and reliability, have a strong spare parts back-up, simple service schedule and are renown for just being easy to live with.The only downside is they won't be the newest car on your block and they're unlikely to be the most rewarding ride of your life. But you have to start somewhere. Just like Peter Brock.CHOICESThese are some used cars, not in any particular order, that should be reliable first-time cars. But each car is different. Ensure your car is professionally checked before buying and that all the car's service papers are accurate, regular and preferably stamped by a competent service centre.NISSAN TIIDAThis model is the evolution of the Pulsar and, I admit, isn't the prettiest car on the road. Fellas, perhaps stay away from this one. But the model is enduring because of its simplicity and low running costs. It has a decent amount of metal around the passenger cell to minimise intrusion in case of a collision, a neat and functional interior with comfortable seats, big boot in the sedan model (and more than adequate in the hatchback version), and four doors so your friends won't have to squeeze past you on the way to access the rear seat.2006 TIIDA TI SEDANCost: $9200 with 79,000kmEngine: 93kW/174Nm 1.8-litre autoFuel economy: 7.8 L/100kmSafety features: ABS brakes, 4 airbags, brake assist Crash rating: 4-starMAZDA3Two of my daughters drive these and love them for their comfort and features. Later models are preferable because of the electronic stability control, but earlier versions had at least four airbags and ABS brakes plus a four-star crash rating. Because everyone loves these, they're going to cost a bit more than some rival cars. But Mazda's quality name should extend to the day you sell it allowing it to retain a high resale value.2006 MAZDA3 MAXXCost: $11,500 with 75,000kmEngine: 108kW/182Nm 2.0-litre autoFuel economy: 8.2 L/100kmSafety features: ABS brakes, 6 airbags, brake assistCrash rating: 4-star.MITSUBISHI LANCERThese have been made for decades yet nearly all carry a name for reliability. One model, bought with 247,000km on the clock, stayed trouble-free in my household for four years before finding yet another owner. That's not uncommon with Lancers. They're very simple cars but early models fall down badly in safety equipment, so look at 2003 and younger if possible. The 2007-plus models have a five-star crash rating. It doesn't really matter which model you buy but you may have better resale in the future with an automatic with four or five doors that will appeal to a wider audience.2006 LANCER LS SEDANCost: $10,000 with 70,000kmEngine: 115kW/220Nm 2.4-litre autoFuel economy: 8.5 L/100kmSafety features: ABS brakes, 2 airbagsCrash rating: 3-star.TOYOTA COROLLAThis is a stablemate of suburban living with the distinction of being a member of practically every Australian household since the 1970s. It's always been a simple and reliable car without any major hiccups, though the Toyota badge means there's a premium - justified or otherwise - on the price. Paying the extra on the Corolla name alone may not be worth it - look closely at each car before purchase. Toyota was one of the last major carmakers to introduce extra features - such as additional airbags and stability control - on base versions. Better models started from 2000 and the more upmarket versions (Levin and Ultima, for example) are preferred.2006 COROLLA CONQUEST SEDANCost: $10,500 with 75,000kmEngine: 93kW/161Nm 1.8-litre autoFuel economy: 7.4 L/100kmSafety features: ABS brakes, 2 airbagsCrash rating: 4-star.MITSUBISHI MAGNAThis is something a bit bigger and yet is generally priced about the same as the smaller cars. Mitsubishi made these in Australia and progressive years honed the product to excellent reliability while ho-hum styling and performance slashed resale. That makes this big family car good buying today. Magnas ended their run in 2005 and today these are the pick of the bunch, even though the powerplant was a 3.5-litre V6 with a four-speed auto. These cars were common in government and rental fleets but don't be put off - that means they've been regularly se rviced and repaired.2005 MAGNA ES SEDANCost: $5000 with 120,000kmEngine: 155kW/316Nm 3.5-litre V6 autoFuel economy: 11.5 L/100kmSafety features: ABS brakes, 4 airbags, traction controlCrash rating: 3-star.SUBARU LIBERTYAnother biggish car that offered high safety standards for its era. The later Libertys are also attractive, well equipped - in their day they weren't a cheap car - and roomy. The downside may be lacklustre performance, so-so fuel economy and some high-priced spare parts but we're primarily chasing a reliable and safe car choice here. The Libertys are all-wheel drive sedans and wagons which aids safety on wet roads rather than giving them any off-road ability (for that, look at the Subaru Outback).2006 LIBERTY 2.5i SEDANCost: $11,500 with 75,000kmEngine: 121kW/226Nm 2.5-litre autoFuel economy: 9.5 L/100kmSafety features: ABS brakes, 6 airbags, traction controlCrash rating: 5-star.

THE Volkswagen Beetle was once the world's most popular car until technology made it obsolete. Now it is the Toyota Corolla that has the mantle. More than 37 million have been sold since 1966 and the formula of simplicity, value for money, high resale prices and reliability is as integrated into its latest 10th generation as it was 45 years ago.But the competition has become sharper. Compared with the Corolla, the style of its rivals is more athletic and better dressed. The opposition more readily embraces the latest technology and with it comes new economies in fuel use and ownership costs. And their value for money - predominantly through competitive prices and a soaring feature list - is eroding what once made the Corolla great.VALUEThe $31,490 Ultima automatic sedan tested gets a bigger 2-litre engine, leather interior, xenon low-beam headlights, reversing camera and rear spoiler for only $800 more than the previous 1.8-litre model. That puts it hard up against other key players from Mazda, Mitsubishi, Hyundai, Kia and Subaru and into an extremely competitive market.Like Mitsubishi's 2.4-litre Aspire version of the Lancer, the Ultima bridges the price and performance gap between its less expensive, high-volume versions and the manufacturer's bigger car models - in this case, Camry.TECHNOLOGYThe bigger 2-litre engine promises more power and performance but is hamstrung by the Ultima's extra weight - up to 50kg more than the 1.8-litre Corolla models - and retention of the uninspiring four-cog, non-sequential auto. This auto is actually a new unit but has a tough time against the five and six-speed autos used by rivals to enhance economy and performance.The engine produces barely any more power and torque than the 1.8-litre version - disappointing - but is one of the very few on the market with a zero-maintenance camshaft drive chain.DESIGNThe Ultima comes only as a sedan and looks neat - albeit conservative and with an unfortunate strong resemblance to its big sister, the Camry. It sits on the same wheelbase as the 2000 model yet the car's body is now longer, so no real advantage to cabin space.The rear spoiler does nothing but defines the bootline. Women, apparently, like it because it looks sporty. So do I in Adidas shorts but believe me, the sight is appalling and hides the fact I couldn't run a warm bath.Cabin style is simple but works really well and incorporates features that will make your life easier - the rear camera with its screen within the rear-vision mirror is borrowed from the Koreans yet is so effective it should be mandatory.The boot is big, the rear seats split and fold down (not quite flat) and there's a full-size spare wheel. Two adults can fit in the back seat and thanks to the flat floor, you could persuade a third occupant of smaller stature to come along for the ride.SAFETYSeven airbags, electronic stability control and a five-star crash rating. All good news.DRIVINGBig advances have been made to quieten the mechanicals and resist ambient noise. The ride also feels more supple than my 2000 Corolla Ultima. But I expected more zing. There is an improvement in low-end torque which helps the car get of the mark and allows the four-cog box to flick quickly up the ratios.Annoyingly, hitting the accelerator to downshift when overtaking drops one extra the gear but makes the engine scream. A manual mode would greatly help the driving experience, even if that function is only needed in extreme circumstances.Performance isn't its middle name. Punching out only 3kW more than my 1.8-engined Corolla, yet weighing heaps more, means it'll run around the same (uninspiring) time to 100km/h.But drive it more cautiously and the car makes a lot of sense. The controls are perfectly placed, the steering feel is actually quite good and if you don't hammer the accelerator the journey is quiet and relaxed.Fuel economy could be better. Around the suburbs the test car returned up to 8.5 litres/100km on the same route my Corolla gets 7.4 l/100km and a diesel Golf sucks only 6.1 l/100km.VERDICTIt's well built, practical and durable. But it's simple and conservative in a market that wants - and is prepared to pay for - fresh meat.TOYOTA COROLLA ULTIMAOrigin: JapanPrice: $31,490Engine: 2-litre, 4-cylPower: 102kW @ 5600rpmTorque: 189Nm @ 4400rpmFuel: Standard unleadedFuel tank: 55 litresEconomy: 7.7 litres/100km (official), 8.2 litres/100km (tested)Greenhouse: 181g/km (1.8 Corolla: 174g/km)Transmission: 4-speed automatic; front-driveBrakes: 4-wheel discs, ESC, ABS, EBD, brake assistTurning circle: 10.2mSuspension: MacPherson struts (front); multi-link, coils (rear)Wheels: 16-inch alloy, 205/55R16 tyres; full-size steel spareDimensions: 4545mm (l), 1760mm (w), 1470mm (h)Wheelbase: 2600mmWeight: 1360kgTow (max): 1300kgBoot (seat up/down): 450/1121 litresWarranty: 3yr/100,000kmService: 15,000kmFEATURESDual-zone climate airconditioning6-speaker 6-CD/iPod/USB Bluetooth audio7 airbagsRear cameraLeather

On a tight budget, you had four options: unsafe cars, unreliable cars, really boring cars or cars that combined all three characteristics.  In the past decade, though, it's become easier to find a tidy, safe, cheap used car, for several reasons.Firstly, used cars don't hold their value like they once did. New cars have become cheaper in real terms, and sales have boomed, so there's a lot more used cars on the market.Cars are also much safer than they used to be. Government legislation and independent crash test programmes like NCAP, (which publicises the results of its tests, much to the annoyance of the industry) have forced car makers to improve safety. A 2005 car, no matter what make it is, will be safer than a 1995 car. At the minimum, you want two front airbags and anti-lock (ABS) brakes.Unless it's French or Italian, in which case a weekly dummy spit is part of the "ownership experience," most cars from the last 10 years will be pretty reliable, as long as servicing has been done by the book.We are talking about ordinary, everyday cars here, that haven't been thrashed. If you're looking at some dude's slammed, chipped Subaru WRX and the price seems too good to be true, chances are it will self-destruct before you make it home. You pay your money and you take your chances.Immaculate, low kilometre cars owned by little old ladies do exist, and they are gold. So is a complete service record, especially if it's from the dealer who sold the car new.  Let's see if we can find a few to recommend. Bottom dollar in our search is $5000.There's not much joy at this money, but the last of the Mitsubishi Magnas, from 2004-2005, are great value and reasonably plentiful. Many will be ex-renters. That's not necessarily a bad thing, because serving will have been done to schedule. The 3.5-litre V6-four speed auto ES has four airbags and ABS.Another Mitsubishi, the Lancer, is the best small car we can find at this price. Toyota Corollas are fine too, though they're more expensive.  The Lancer's as sexy as a can of baked beans and completely bulletproof. Pay about $7000-$8000 or so for a 2005 model. Find one with optional ABS and six airbags.If you've got around $10,000 to spend, you have much more choice.  In 2004, Mazda made six airbags and ABS available across its entire range, as options or standard, so any Mazda2 or Mazda3 from 2004 on will be worth checking out. Mazda does blue chip quality, and if you find a good one, with a service book, buy it. You'll pick up a 2 for less than $10,000; a 3 will be $10,000-$12,000.If you need something bigger, this sort of money will also get you into a 2004-2005 Subaru Liberty, another top car from Japan's A league. All wheel drive, excellent handling and Subaru's class leading NCAP scores are pluses. The 2.0-litre four won't rip your arms off, but it will do the job. Wagons cost a little more.You might prefer a small SUV wagon instead, so look for a 2004-2005 Subaru Forester, or Toyota RAV4, at $12,000-$15,000.  If you need a big car for a big country, the Aussie six is hard to go past.You'll pay $10,000-$13,000 for the first of the VE Commodores from 2006. The 3.6-litre V6 sounds like 1000 leaf blowers on maximum thrust, however it's durable enough. Holden got serious about safety with VE, so you get stability control as standard.  It might take a while to find the right car, but in the end, it pays to be fussy. Second hand doesn't have to mean second best.WHERE TO BUY?DealerPros: On cars under 10 years old, most states require a warranty, typically 3 months or 5000 kilometres. You also get guaranteed title. Franchised dealers (ie those who also sell new cars) usually have the best selection of used cars; the trade-ins they don't want are unloaded to non franchised dealers or auctions.Cons: Can be more expensive than a similar car bought privately. Beware of non-franchised dealers selling flood damaged or rebirthed (ie cars written off by insurance companies but then repaired) from Queensland.PrivatePros: The best way to find a bargain.Cons: You have to do plenty of legwork, and finding the right car, in a place that's close to where you live, can be a time consuming process. There's no guarantee of title or provenance, and no comebacks if it drops its guts on the way home. Buyer beware.AuctionsPros: Ex-government or fleet cars, usually properly serviced, with low kilometres. Guaranteed title. Many dealers buy cars at auction, take them to their car yard, and jack the price up by thousands of dollars. Buy it yourself, and pocket the difference.Cons: You can't test drive the car before you bid. It's also easy for an amateur to pay too much, so go to a couple before you buy to get an idea of prices and how it all works.

Toyota's recipe of value-for-money, build quality and reliability has seen the brand become number one in this market, and the Corolla one of its most successful models.Now in its 10th generation the Corolla is one of our firm favourites, new or used, and there's no sign we're tiring of the little car from Japan.MODEL WATCH The Corolla has got better with each new generation and the 10th generation released in 2007 continued the pattern of improvement. Like those that went before it the new Corolla was well built, solid and sensible.The cars sold in Australia came from the Japanese production line rather than one of the 15 factories producing them in other parts of the world. Two models, a traditional four-door sedan with a boot and a five-door hatchback, were offered in the new range.Both boasted clean, fresh, youthful lines that fitted well with younger buyers without troubling older traditional Corolla buyers.  As is often the case the new Corolla was larger than the car it replaced, which made it more user friendly. Younger buyers could accommodate more of their mates; older ones had no trouble transporting their families.The rear seat could take three, making it possible to accommodate five all up.  One of the reasons for the roominess was the rather upright style of the Corolla, which allowed the occupants to sit higher in a more upright position.The Corolla's engine was a 1.8-litre four with double overhead camshafts and Toyota's VVT-I variable valve timing that gave zippy performance along with good fuel economy.When at its peaks the engine pumped out 100kW at 6000 revs and 175Nm at 4400 revs, enough to give it good acceleration and overtaking performance. Toyota offered a choice of six-speed manual and four-speed auto gearboxes, with drive through the front wheels.While many carmakers were going to five-speed autos Toyota stuck with four, but it didn't seem to affect the Corolla's drivability or performance to any great degree.Changes to the front and rear suspension, coupled with a wider track improved the Corolla's stability, handling and ride comfort.The model range was made up of four sporty hatches - Ascent, Conquest, Levin SX and Levin ZR - and three practical sedans - Ascent, Conquest and Ultima.IN THE SHOPJust three years old the Corolla is still in its infancy with the earliest 10th generation cars only having 50,000 km or so under their treads.  Few complaints have come through the CarsGuide, and those that have been received have been of a one-off nature and not serious.Even though all appears to be well with the Corolla it's still important to check for a service record to make sure the required maintenance has been done.The Corolla engine has a cam timing belt, and it's important that it be changed as recommended, but that's not until 150,000 km so there's some time before that falls due. Also make the usual visual checks to the bumps and scrapes that come with everyday life on the road.IN A CRASHWith dual front airbags only the Corolla Ascent was rated at four stars out of five when tested by ANCAP, all other models rated at five out of five with additional side front airbags and head airbags.All models had an impressive array of active safety gear, including ABS anti-lock brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) and brake assist (BAS) for optimum emergency stopping.  Electronic stability control wasn't offered on any model until 2009 when it became standard on the Levin ZR hatch and Ultima sedan.UNDER THE PUMPToyota claimed the Corolla would average 7.3 L/100 km in manual form and 7.7 L/100 km when equipped with the auto trans. Contemporary road testers generally reported figures that were a little higher, at 7.9 L/100 km for the manual and 8.5 L/100 km.LOOK FORToyota build qualityCute contemporary looksRoomy cabinGood all-round performance .Five-star safetyTHE BOTTOM LINEA well-built, practical and reliable all-rounder for all ages. 80/100

The mere mention of the name Corolla conjures up an image of a well-built, reliable and accomplished small car. There is no better example of what the Corolla is about than the AE92 model Toyota unveiled in 1991.The Corolla first arrived here in the late 1960s when small cars wore badges like Morris, Austin and Vauxhall, but while others have long disappeared from local showrooms, the baby Toyota has become the small car benchmark.The sixth generation AE92 Corolla was just such a car, well engineered, well built, and well equipped, and while it’s now nearing the end of its useful life those attributes still make it a good choice for anyone with a limited budget, like those hitting the road for the first time.In the course of the last 40 years the Corolla has grown in size and has moved up a rung in the marketplace. Where it was an entry-level car at launch it has been replaced in that role by the cheap and cheerful Korean cars that have taken over the Corolla’s role in recent years.The Corolla is now a family car for young couples new to the nesting game, it’s also in demand for those at the other end of life who’ve bade farewell to their offspring and want to downsize.When the new Corolla was unveiled in 1991 the Korean tidal wave was yet to land on our shores in the way it would just a few years later, so the small Toyota was still one of the rulers in the small segment.MODEL WATCHAnyone who cared to count would find a staggering 21 models in the Corolla in 1991. Toyota clearly wanted to have a model for everyone, from the budget conscious buyer who was happy to have basic transport to those who wanted a little more comfort in their ride, and on to those wanting a thrill-a-minute from their motoring.With four bodies to choose from, sedan, hatch, liftback and wagon, plus three levels of equipment, SE, CS and CS-X, four engines and three transmissions there was a car for everyone.At first glance there seems little difference between the AE92 and its predecessor, but a closer look would reveal the Toyota corporate logo on the grille in place of the Toyota name, and the edges were smoothed and rounded making for a softer shape overall.The four-door sedan was a pleasant looking car if rather conservative, and aimed squarely at families and older folk. The five-door hatch was smarter with plenty of appeal for younger drivers with its cute lines and rounded tail, while the five-door liftback was the most attractive with its longer, smoother tail. There was also a wagon for the most space.The sedan was available in SE, CS and CS-X levels, likewise the hatch, which also boasted a sporty SX, while the Seca liftback was offered in CS, CS-X and SX variants.All of the engines featured twin overhead camshafts with four valves per cylinder, but not all were fuel-injected at the time of launch.The entry engine was the 60 kW 1.4-litre narrow twin cam, which was fitted with a carburettor and was unique to the Australian market. It was available in the SE sedan and SE and CS hatch, and only with a five-speed manual transmission. Despite its small size it was quite lively, but it was also had a flexible nature which made for smooth unfussed motoring.Toyota also offered a 67 kW 1.6-litre version of the engine, again with a carburettor, which was standard on all CS and CS-X models, and the SE hatch. The five-speed manual was the standard gearbox, but there was a three-speed auto offered as an option on all CS models, and the SE hatch. There was also a four-speed auto, but that was only available at the CS-X level.The wagons had an imported 1.6-litre narrow twin cam engine, which was fuel-injected and delivered 76 kW, but it was the sporty wide twin cam 1.6-litre that got everyone’s attention.That was the 4A-GE engine that boasted fuel-injection along with a sporty cylinder head among a raft of upgrades that combined to produce a powerful peak of 100 kW. In its day it was one of the world’s top performing naturally aspirated engines, no wonder many specialist sports car makers around the world adopted it.Companies like Elfin, Caterham, Westfield and many others who appreciated its performance and packaging have used it. Even today the 4E-GE engine is talked about in reverent tones.Suspension was a combination of MacPherson Strut front and strut rear, same as the previous model, but there was a long list of detail changes that improved the steering feel and handling.Brakes were disc front and drum rear on the base models, but higher models also got disc rears.Steering was rack and pinion without power assistance, but power steering was available as an option.Inside the new Corolla had revised seats offering greater comfort, and a new instrument panel and fascia. All but the base model had a split/fold rear seat, and the upper models also had a fold-up rear seat cushion.At the time of the Corollas release Toyota was involved in the ultimately unsuccessful partnership with Holden that saw Holden release a rebadged Corolla called the Nova.IN THE SHOPThere’s no doubting the Corolla’s build quality, it was of a level that others could only aspire to. The reality, though, is that it now has up to 12 years under the tyres and that means there’ll be plenty of kays showing on its odometer, and no car can escape the ravages of time and kays completely.It’s important to check any Corolla thoroughly before handing over any money. Take your time when looking for a car and seek advice from an expert in the field for added comfort.Although cars as old as the Corolla is now rarely have complete service records, it’s worth asking the vendor for one to get an idea of how the car has been treated.When inspecting the car look for signs of home maintenance as many of these older Corollas are now at the time of their lives where they are being neglected by owners who can’t afford to service them or don’t care.If looked after the Corolla will provide reliable service for some years to come. The engines are reliable if looked after, but will have done the sort of mileage that will require a second cam belt change.Gearboxes are generally troublefree, but the five-speed gearbox is prone to breaking fifth gear. If it jumps out of fifth gear on a road test then walk away.Drivelines tend to stand up well, but look carefully at the rubber boots protecting the drive shaft joints, looking particularly for splits, which might expose the joint to dirt and grime from the road and hasten their demise.Body work stands up well, but local paint can be a problem with metallic colours fading. Interior trim holds up well, but look for heavy wear on the seats.OWNER’S VIEWJustin Cook bought his 1.4-litre Holden Nova new in March '91, and has since covered 285,000 mostly trouble free kilometres. He has had to replace a water pump at 60,000 km, and the alternator bushes, but apart from that he says it has not missed a beat. He expects to replace the original radiator and exhaust soon, but expects to get many more years out of the Nova before it dies. In summary he says he cannot imagine any other car giving such economical motoring, in terms of initial purchase, fuel and maintenance costs.LOOK FOR• high mileage means greater chance of problems so be careful when choosing a car• robust engines generally reliable, but look for signs of neglect• solid body structure holds up well• great handling from responsive chassis• pound for pound performer without peer• Jumping out of fifth gear indicates gearbox woes

Here's a quandary faced by a growing number of buyers who traditionally have owned a large family car and are ready to replace it with something new.Do they buy another big six or go for something smaller, which can offer better value for the same sort of bucks?Spending $29,000 to $35,000 will get them into a new entry-level, Aussie-made, fleet-oriented Falcon, Commodore or Mitsubishi 380 with a limited number of features.Yet by sacrificing a little cabin space the same money can get you into a top-of-the-line small car that comes loaded with extras.With that in mind, this week we look at Toyota's 10th generation Corolla Ultima sedan which, by the way, isn't that small any more, its boot is almost Commodore-size and the cabin comfortably seats four with room to spare.How muchThe Corolla Ultima sells for $31,990, which is a premium price considering exchange rates but this one comes with a lot of standard equipment. If you want a manual, you're out of luck. This one has only an automatic transmission, and a dated one at that.What you getThis is where the Ultima becomes such an attractive proposition. Toyota says it loaded the car with $6000 in extras justifying the price hike of about $1900 when the Corolla was launched last month.There's plenty of expected gear for the money, such as cruise control, power windows and mirrors, automatic wipers and headlights (with washers) which switch themselves on when needed, a rear vision mirror which automatically dips, fancy alloy wheels, fog lamps, tinted windows, an alarm and remote opening for the boot.Then Toyota gave it greater appeal by fitting leather upholstery, a Bluetooth phone connection, automatic air conditioning (with pollen filter), outside temperature readout, illuminated vanity mirrors and better than average six-stack CD audio with MP3 capability.It has also a whiz-bang keyless transmitter. You can keep it in your purse or pocket and it enables you to unlock the doors as soon as you touch the door handle, or start the engine by pushing a button on the dashboard.Be warned, though: don't misplace the transmitter. The car comes with only one and they're expensive to replace, although you do get a couple of conventional keys to unlock the doors and turn the ignition the old-fashioned way.What's missing? Not much, apart from a satellite navigation system, parking sensors or rear view camera.Safety featuresThe Ultima scores well here, except it's missing any form of stability control, something Toyota admits it got caught flat-footed on but has promised one will be fitted at the end of next year, when the Corolla facelift is due. You do get anti-skid brakes with brake force distribution and brake assist, front, side and curtain air bags plus a driver's knee bag, three-point seat belts and headrests for all seats.DesignThe Corolla has always been practical but bland. Give thanks that Toyota has discovered there is a word called style after all and this latest Ultima looks just like a smaller Camry. Although still conservative, the car is handsome.The cabin is comfortable, feels spacious and airy and the layout of controls and instruments is generally good. The only sore point is the design of the speedo; the graphics are far too busy to make checking your speed at a glance a simple task. It may look stylish but, in terms of functionality, it doesn't cut it.No problems with the generous size of the boot or the many storage bins and boxes. Toyota says the sedan has 29 of them but I could only find 27.Under the bonnetThe 1.8-litre, four-cylinder with dual variable valve timing drives the front wheels and has 100kW at 6000rpm on tap and 175Nm of torque at 4400rpm. It's mated with a four-speed automatic.Although it looks all right on paper, the engine-transmission package only just does the job. The Corolla would be a much better car with a 2-litre engine and modern six-speed auto, which is on the cards for future models.On the roadThe Ultima is deceptively roomy, comfortable, quiet and pleasing to drive but it's not quite as responsive as a couple of its rivals.It does have weaknesses. The electric power steering offers too much assistance, in my book, and while the engine is wonderfully flexible, it needs to be able to cope with the transmission which can struggle under load, hunting between gears. For most of the time, however, this Corolla won't upset too many owners.It's a car designed for comfort, rather than performance. The standing dash to 100km/h takes a leisurely 11.1 seconds but the car has good mid-range punch, once it drops a gear, for overtaking.How thirstyThe sedan returned an average of 9 litres/100km for a typical week-long mix of city and highway running on standard unleaded. Toyota's official fuel consumption figure is 7.4L/100km.ImpressionsThe Ultima has a quality feel and much going for it. It comes with a premium price and is missing one important safety feature. Power is adequate but the four-speed auto transmission is off the pace.It is big on comfort, space, badge value and it drives and rides nicely and is roomy. 

TOYOTA'S dominance of the Australian new vehicle market is set to take a big step forward with the arrival of the new Corolla.It's heavier and stronger, and as efficient as its popular predecessor.While not keen to nominate numbers, Toyota execs are anxious to knock GM's Commodore from the top sales spot and believe Corolla is the car to do it.The range has been split - the Euro-styled hatchback and the more sedate Japanese-designed sedan, developed separately to maintain the different personalities.Toyota has added structural body reinforcements and closed panel gaps to make new Corolla more aerodynamic, despite its tall-boy configuration.Toyota executive sales and marketing director David Buttner says the new look aims to broaden Corolla's appeal and reduce the average age of ownership without alienating the loyal band of Corolla owners. “There's now a real focus on style and driving enthusiasm as we inject more passion into the Corolla brand,” Mr Buttner says.“We have a real opportunity with people under 35 who buy around a quarter of all small cars.”The sedan and hatch are offered in entry-level Ascent ($20,990) and mid-level Conquest grades ($25,500). The range also includes a sports-oriented Levin SX ($25,500) and ZR ($29,500) hatches, and a luxury Ultima sedan ($31,990).All new Corollas (except the auto-only Ultima) offer the choice of an all-new six-speed manual transmission or a four-speed electronic automatic as a $2000 option.A new 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine, produces 100kW of power (up from 93kW) at 6000rpm and torque has risen from 161Nm to 175Nm at 4400rpm. Toyota claims the new powerplant is the only engine in its class with continuously variable valve timing on inlet and exhaust ports for better performance, emissions and fuel use.The hatch claims an ADR fuel economy figure of 7.4 litres/100km (manual), rising to 7.7 litres/100km for the auto, while the sedan returns 7.3 litres/100km in manual guise and 7.4 litres/100km for the auto.Corolla boasts ABS brakes and dual front airbags (with a safety pack offering front-seat side airbags, curtain airbags and a driver's knee airbag on all models) but there's no stability control system on offer.Among the other standard features are reach and rake adjustable steering, an MP3 sound system, front power windows and airconditioning, with the Conquest adding 16in alloy wheels, the full complement of airbags and the cruise control, leather-bound steering and leather gearshift, keyless entry and start, a six-CD sound system with MP3 player jack, fog lamps, Bluetooth and rear power windows as standard.The Levin SX sports hatch adds a bodykit, with the ZR model including extra airbags, rain-sensing wipers, climate control, trip computer and auto HID headlights. The top-spec Ultima sedan has leather trim above the top-spec Levin ZR.The first drive showed the stronger, quieter bodyshell is worthwhile but the extra weight has blunted the verve of the 1.8-litre four-cylinder - bring on the diesel and a high-performance V6 (both engines are on offer elsewhere).The six-speed manual is a nice gearbox but the absence of a five-speed automatic is an oversight.The four-speed auto, sampled in the sedan, is decent, with smooth changes and a level of “intelligence” that overcomes the lack of torque.Both cars feel solid and have a level of build and material quality that others don't match.THE STORY SO FAR1967: Corolla, which means “crown of flowers” was launched as a small two-door sedan. Australia was the first market to receive the Corolla from Japan. The little Toyota was assembled at Port Melbourne in 1968 and won its class at Bathurst that year and again in 1969.1970: The updated Corolla proved popular with younger buyers. It was the second-best-selling car in the world that year.1975: Corolla was expanded to a two-door, four-door hard-top, wagon and van range. Annual sales in Australia topped 20,000 for the first time.1981: The Corolla went wedge-shaped and this was the last of the rear-wheel-drive models. After 16 years, Corolla reached production of 10 million vehicles in March, 1983.1995: The front-wheel-drive Corolla was born and became the first mass-produced small car in the world to feature twin-cam multi-valve technology.1989: The sporty twin-cam 1.6-litre and then 1.8-litre engines propelled Corolla, a model critical to Toyota becoming market leader in Australia for the first time in 1991.1994: Toyota launched a 13-model locally-manufactured Corolla range, the first built at Melbourne's Altona plant.1998: Toyota imported the Corolla Liftback to join the locally manufactured range and it was the first Corolla offered in Australia with a front passenger airbag.2001: Toyota unveiled an edgier style, longer wheelbase and new technology, including variable valve timing. A month before the launch total Corolla sales in Australia passed 750,000.

Hot hatches are back with a bang in 2003. Ford, Holden and Toyota have added spice to the scene with cars that have a twist in their tail.The Focus ST170, Astra SRi Turbo and Corolla Sportivo all have more muscle, and they've been built to satisfy people with $30,000 or more to spend on a snazzy new set of wheels.They don't have the raw edge of the '80s and '90s hot hatches – cars such as the original VW Golf GTi, Peugeot 205 GTi, Suzuki Swift GTi and even Holden's Barina GSi – or the fun factor of those baby blasters.These days hot hatches are slightly bigger, more refined and more costly.And they come with prestige-style appeal that can include Alfa, Audi, Peugeot or Renault badges.But it's still the Ford, Holden and Toyota teams that are making the really big splashes.Toyota's latest, the Corolla Sportivo, is built in South Africa and is fitted with a power-up pack taken straight from the Celica.The body kit bits don't look that much different, but the cost-effective Sportivo package – the only sub-$30,000 car in the latest contest – brings a cabin upgrade.This includes leather seats, leather steering wheel and leather gearknob, a punchy CD sound system and chrome-plated highlights on the doors and the central console.It also has bigger wheels, better brakes, Bridgestone tyres with more grip, and automatic airconditioning.We were a bit underwhelmed when we first saw and drove the Corolla Sportivo at a press preview in Tasmania in March.This was partly because we'd had so much hype before its arrival and partly because it didn't look that much different.The latest Corolla is boxlike and the Sportivo certainly doesn't look a wild sports model, even though it has 141kW on tap.It is also tough at times to tame those rampaging kiloWatts.They arrive only when the tachometer needle is swinging past 6000 revs and twisting on towards a red-line cutout at 8200.Also, we drove the Corolla at about the same time as the Astra Turbo, which is a more relaxed car and just as quick, and the impressive Focus ST170.But after a test drive it's hard to deny the appeal of the Sportivo.Toyota has done a smart job on switching the 1.8-litre 2ZZ-GE engine from the Celica, complete with its six-speed close-ratio gearbox.The engine comes with variable valve timing and picks up an extra kiloWatt in the Corolla, thanks to a smoother passage for the exhaust gases.The figures show all the go is at the top end of the power range, with maximum kiloWatts at 7800 revs and even the torque peak of 180Nm not hitting until 6800 revs.That makes it, on paper at least, the peakiest little four-banger we've sampled since we tested the Honda Integra Type-R.To give some comparison, the Astra turbo has 147kW and 250Nm of torque and the Focus ST has 127 and 196.The basic Alfa 147 manages 110 and 181 – the chilli-hot 147 GTA hits Australia this week.And the turbo-charged Audi S3 has 165 and 280.On the roadWe like driving the quick little Corolla on suburban roads.It is a surprising combination of light-and-easy and wild-and-crazy.And then there's the practical hatchback body.The wicked little four-pot screamer actually gives you a choice of three driving modes: all right, eager and downright crazy.It's all decided by the position of the tachometer needle, which reflects a sluggish take-up until 4000 revs, then a bright spot to 6000, and a totally feral blast from there to the red.You could drive the Sportivo below 4000 revs and never know about the beast that's lurking in the engine bay.The motor spins sweetly, the fuel economy is impressive, and you can easily swap cogs through the six-speed gearbox without straining the car or yourself.If you still want more, then dip into the 4000-6000 sweet spot and the car gets along quite nicely.It will keep pace with others when the traffic lights change, cruise comfortably, and satisfy most people for most of the time.But if you really want to go, and you're prepared to give the gear lever some action and keep your right foot down hard, the Sportivo really sings past 6000 revs.That's how it claims a 0-100km/h sprint in 8.4 seconds and how it will keep up with most things short of a Subaru WRX.The high-revving motor means there's a fair bit of noise and it's not always pleasant. We didn't like cruising at 100km/h with 3200 revs, though things were surprisingly smoother and quieter at 110km/h.And European testers report the Sportivo is really sweet at 170km/h.The test car's gearbox had clearly been abused, which made it a bit hit-and-miss on the shifts.But we were more concerned about cabin noises and exhaust booms. There were too many tizzles and sizzles – car company speak for squeaks and rattles – to make us happy in the cabin.We wonder if it's South African quality, engine vibrations, a hard life or all three.The Sportivo does ride well – surprisingly smoothly for a sport-tuned suspension set-up – and the brakes are great.It also follows the wheel easily around most corners, provided you're above second gear and not in the feral-rev zone.If you hook it into a suburban right-angle corner it will buck and jump and the inside-front wheel can snatch and spin.But if you take a smoother line and use some finesse, it will respond with more pace and less drama.We found the Sportivo well equipped, with a good boot. It's also comfy, with room for three adults in the back.It's easy to park, apart from a blind spot at the rear corners, and there are good headlamps.A week at home with the Sportivo has given us a clearer picture of the car and allowed us to enjoy it more.It proved it can be a sensible suburban runabout as well as a truly hot hatch.It's also well-priced and good value, though we're not convinced it could take on the Astra Turbo.