2016 Toyota Corolla Expert Review
Reviewed by Stefan Ogbac
The 2016 Toyota Corolla gains an available Entune Audio Plus with Connected Navigation on all but the base L trim. All variants of the Corolla equipped with the Entune infotainment system come with Siri Eyes Free, Slacker Radio, and Destination Search. LE Plus and Premium models can now be had with alloy wheels featuring painted accents.
A new special edition model is new for 2016 and comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, a Special Edition badge, keyless entry/start, seats with contrast red stitching, a moonroof, the Entune infotainment system with navigation, and the Entune Apps suite.
Vehicle Summary
The 2016 Toyota Corolla is a compact sedan that slots above the subcompact Yaris and below the midsize Camry. An economy-minded model called the Corolla Eco is also available.
Overview
One engine is available in the 2016 Corolla: a 1.8-liter I-4 with 132-140 hp and 126-128 lb-ft of torque depending on the trim level. Three transmissions are available a six-speed manual, a four-speed automatic, and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Fuel economy is a Corolla strong suit with the four-speed automatic rated at 27/36 mpg city/highway, the manual at 28/37 mpg, and the CVT at 29/37 mpg. For maximum fuel economy, consider the Corolla Eco, which is rated at 30/40 mpg. Trunk space is large good for the class at 13 cubic feet and can be expanded via the standard 60/40 split-folding rear seats.
Safety
In addition to the standard dual front, front-side, and side curtain airbags, the 2016 Corolla comes standard with knee airbags for the driver and front passenger.
Trims, Packages, and What's Standard
Base L trims come standard with 15-inch steel wheels with wheel covers, Bluetooth connectivity, the Entune infotainment system with a 6.1-inch touchscreen, cloth upholstery, 60/40 split-folding rear seats, and a tilt/telescoping steering wheel. Higher trim levels like the LE and the S come with features such as heated front seats, leatherette upholstery, navigation, rear disc brakes, a sportier suspension tuning, and alloy wheels from 16- to 17-inches in diameter. A rearview camera is standard on all but the base L trim.
What We Think
While it's one the best selling cars in the US, the Toyota Corolla remains a thoroughbred commuter car with great fuel economy especially in the Eco model. In a 2014 First Test review, we said that the car remains basic transportation and defaults to understeer when driven hard. Additionally, the seats don't provide enough support for even semi-enthusiastic driving. In a comparison test that also included the Mazda3, Volkswagen Jetta, Kia Forte, Dodge Dart, Hyundai Elantra, and Honda Civic, the Corolla placed fourth because of its poor handling, lack of steering feel, and seats that lack support. Additionally, the car's rear moves too much on less-than-perfect pavement. Back seat room, however, is generous and can accommodate two or three people with ease.
Cool Fact
The Corolla is one of the best-selling automotive nameplates worldwide.
Key Competitors
- Honda Civic
- Nissan Sentra
- Kia Forte
- Ford Focus
- Chevrolet Cruze
