2009 Toyota Corolla and Matrix

Upgraded compact mixes new with familiar in the hopes of lowering buyer's average age

Jan 19, 2008

Special the Star

Don't mess with success.

I have a sneaking suspicion that if you could go back through the Toyota paperwork that led to the new, 10th-generation Corolla, you'd find that memo at the start of it. This is, after all, the model that's been in production since 1966 and has sold almost 33 million copies worldwide, which means it must be doing something right.

So while Toyota calls the Corolla and its sibling Matrix "all-new," there's a lot that's still familiar. It's more of an evolution, with stronger styling, more powerful engines and long-overdue safety features.

There's also some fun to go with the practicality, as 2009 marks the return of the sportier XRS model in both Corolla and Matrix.

Overall, the new Corolla bears a slight resemblance to a scaled-down Camry, with sleeker lines and a smoother, more attractive rake to its windshield. It looks bigger than its predecessor, but it's mostly an illusion.

It rides on the same wheelbase as its predecessor; the platform has numerous changes, but isn't completely redesigned. Overall length grows by an imperceptible 10 mm, but the roof comes down by twice that, and both width and track are increased, which gives it a more solidly planted stance with improved stability. Interior space is about the same as before.

As before, Corolla is powered by a 1.8 L four-cylinder, but it's an all-new powerplant that increases horsepower from the previous 126 hp to 132; torque increases from 122 lb.-ft. to 128. The base CE and sporty S models mate that engine to a five-speed manual, or an optional four-speed automatic that's standard in the high-end LE. The last XRS, in 2006, used a souped-up 1.8 L, but the 2009 version carries a torquey 2.4 L four-cylinder, mated to the five-speed manual or optional five-speed automatic with manual shift mode.

As before, Corolla's suspension is MacPherson struts up front and torsion beam in behind, revised for the car's wider stance. Completely new for the model is electric power steering, and it's well done, dialed in for a light, comfortable feel in the regular models and tuned for sharper performance in the XRS.

Only XRS gets four-wheel disc brakes, but anti-lock brakes with electronic brake force distribution and brake assist are now standard on all models. (For 2008, ABS isn't available on the base model, even as an option.)

Also new are six standard airbags – on the current 2008 model, they can only be added as extra-cost to the top-line LE – and active head restraints on all models. Other across-the-board standard features include heated power mirrors, height-adjustable driver's seat, auxiliary stereo jack, and tilt and telescopic steering wheel.

The interior design doesn't break any new ground, but it's elegantly styled for the compact segment. The LE and XRS get glowing Optitron gauges, and all trim lines sport numerous cubbies, including a double glovebox. Fit and finish is good; the last 2007 Corolla I drove wasn't up to the usual interior standards, but it looks like the factory is back on track.

According to chief engineer Shinichi Yasui, the plant in Cambridge had considerable input in the design; as a result, the pedals are spaced to accommodate winter boots (men's 10  1/2, specifically), the door pockets hold an ice scraper, and yes, the cupholders really are sized to fit a double-double from Timmy's. And since the 1.8 L models come with a secondary electric heater that shoots hot air out the vents until the engine warms up, you can shut the car off and go in to get your coffee, rather than idling pointlessly in the drive-through.

On the road, Corolla is quiet, with very little cabin intrusion from road imperfections, and no wind noise. The 1.8 L is enough engine for everyday driving, with good power off the line.

The real fun is the XRS, which has an almost European feel to its clutch and shifter, albeit with a tendency for the revs to hang up slightly between shifts. The steering is sharper, but in true Toyota fashion, deep potholes don't rattle your teeth. The XRS also adds stability and traction control, along with a six-CD stereo, full skirt package, sunroof, fog lamps and spoiler.

Toyota's counting on this redesign, and on the XRS, to bring down the average age of its buyers, which currently hovers around 50-plus. It's difficult for any vehicle to break away into a new target audience, and much will depend on pricing when it goes on sale in February.

It's a fine balancing act, with changes to get the attention of new buyers, but with enough familiar cues to keep the fans happy. Somebody obviously read the memo.

Toronto Star