Beyond its iconic status, the Toyota Corolla has been the mode of transportation for millions around the world for decades. The Toyota Corolla is the standard in the compact car segment and the XLE I drove for a week around the Washington Metropolitan area, did not disappoint. It is not the Corolla of yesterday. The Corolla now comes with several features and options typically found in cars in the luxury and premium segments. I loved the LED daytime running lights integrated into the bumper, the push button ignition and telematics system that included a 7-inch touch-screen display and (in the model I drove) the optional Entune premium audio system with integrated navigation and Entune app suite. I also enjoyed the benefit of advanced safety features like dynamic radar cruise control, Toyota Safety Sense P – pre-collision system with pedestrian detection and so much more. If I had any wish for this vehicle, it would be for a turbo engine to give it a little more power. Otherwise, the Corolla is well-optioned, feels sturdy and is fun to drive. The 2018 Corolla XLE has an EPA rating of 36 MPG on the highway. The starting price is $22,035. Visit www.toyota.com for more info.
