Can't go wrong with a Corolla
Buying a car is often times an emotional adventure. In the case of the Toyota Corolla, it is a sensible, well-thought-out manoeuvre that will pay off in the long run with exceptional dependability. I forget the exact number but if I recall correctly, something like 85% of all Corollas built and sold over the last 20 years are still on the road today. This means that a well-maintained Corolla will go a long way.
Bulletproof reliability
Low ownership costs
Soft ride
Resale value (If you are looking to buy one)
Tested model:
2001 Toyota Corolla Plus, 106,000 km
Problem areas:
Ignition switch failures (2000-02)
Slight electrical problems (1998-2002)
Competitors of the day:
Honda Civic
Mazda Protegé
Ford Focus
Dodge Neon
Subaru Impreza
Pontiac Sunfire / Chevrolet Cavalier
Volkswagen Golf
Nissan Sentra
Recalls:
The Corolla has had no safety recalls issued since 1997.
photo:Philippe Champoux
Buying a car is often times an emotional adventure. In the case of the Toyota Corolla, it is a sensible, well-thought-out manoeuvre that will pay off in the long run with exceptional dependability. I forget the exact number but if I recall correctly, something like 85% of all Corollas built and sold over the last 20 years are still on the road today. This means that a well-maintained Corolla will go a long way.
The Corolla has long been one of the most sensible purchases in the car business. |
Bulletproof reliability
Low ownership costs
Soft ride
Resale value (If you are looking to buy one)
Tested model:
2001 Toyota Corolla Plus, 106,000 km
Problem areas:
Ignition switch failures (2000-02)
Slight electrical problems (1998-2002)
Competitors of the day:
Honda Civic
Mazda Protegé
Ford Focus
Dodge Neon
Subaru Impreza
Pontiac Sunfire / Chevrolet Cavalier
Volkswagen Golf
Nissan Sentra
Recalls:
The Corolla has had no safety recalls issued since 1997.
photo:Philippe Champoux