2007 Toyota Corolla

The Toyota Corolla is simply the best selling car ever. And it is one of the most highly evolved cars on the road today. No, not highly evolved in the same manner as the Maybach 57 or Lexus LS460 - the Corolla is quite simple. However, some historical perspective is required here. In terms of longevity and growth, the Corolla has an amazing story. It began in 1968 with a 55-horsepower two-speed coupe. The Corolla was marked by its commonplace styling and very modest power supply. Thirty years later, little had changed.  

However, during the next ten years, Toyota would completely reinvent the car. The new Corolla, now in its ninth generation, is still praised for its reliability and efficiency, but it is now more attractive and powerful than ever before. Through its 40 years, the Corolla has appeared in all forms: coupe, hatchback, sedan, and wagon. It is now available only as a small sedan. A new 10th generation model is already available in Japan and expected to arrive in the U.S. at the end of the year.

The 2007 Corolla carries over without alteration from the previous model year, but the performance-oriented XRS trim has been dropped. There are three trim levels available: the base CE, the more upscale LE, and the sporty S. All are available with either a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission. Base equipment includes a CD player, 15-inch wheels, air-conditioning, and power mirrors. The LE adds power features and keyless entry. The S features a more aggressive-looking body kit, rear spoiler, fog lamps, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

All Corolla models are powered by a 1.8-liter DOHC inline four-cylinder engine. The 2,500-2,600 pound sedan receives 126 horsepower and 122 pound-feet of torque from the small VVT-i power plant. Fuel efficiency has always been one of the Corolla's best selling points, along with price. The EPA estimate for the 2007 Corolla is 30/38 mpg.