2009 Toyota Corolla 4-Door Sedan XRS

2009 Toyota Corolla XRS from driver's seat (Toyota media department)

Driving the newly designed 2009 Toyota Corolla was an interesting—even an eye-opening—experience.  I had always thought of the Corolla as more of an entry-level car, perhaps because of the relatively low starting price of $16,000 to $19,950.  But the Corolla I drove was definitely first-class.

My youngest son pronounced the magnetic gray metallic Corolla XRS sedan with its Multi-Reflector Halogen headlamps and fog lamps, color-keyed front and rear spoilers, rear deck spoiler, 17-inch alloy wheels, and chrome exhaust tip, quite “tight”.  It not only looked good, it also proved quite capable of zipping along the freeway, so much that I had to brake several times to make sure I stayed within the speed limit.

The 2009 Corolla XRX has a 2.4 liter DOHC engine with 5-speed automatic transmission, and proved very easy to handle whether in town or on the road.  Since the car gets 22 mpg in town and 30-35 on the highway, I was happy to be able to take advantage of the great mileage as I drove to a conference in Austin, 287 miles to the south of Dallas.

An optional navigational feature on the test model also helped make my road trip easier.  Other luxury options including the deluxe leather seats and center console cover, Satellite radio, and a complete power package with remote keyless entry also helped make the driving experience fun and stress-free.  The optional add-ons brought the total price of the test vehicle to $24,234.

Belying its sporty appearance, the Corolla XRS has room for five people inside, with front bucket seats and a three-passenger rear bench.  Folding the rear seats can also expand the cargo area.  Standard safety features include antilock brakes and five airbags, with an optional electronic stability system.

It’s easy to see why this car has remained such a popular staple for Toyota over the years.

Jo Ann Holt is a car columnist and journalist based in Dallas, Texas, and a member of the Texas Auto Writers Association; [email protected].