By the way, electronic stability control is standard on the XRS, but for 2010, it is also included with the S and LE trims and optional on the CE. The XRS gets 4-wheel disc brakes.
More flair
In our humble opinion, aerodynamic add-ons can’t replace a sleek design, but the ones on the XRS really do improve the Corolla’s geriatric styling.
The smart-looking alloy wheels also contribute to the car’s sporty appearance, as does the mesh grille and smoked headlight clusters. For the record, the less-expensive Corolla S gets the base engine and 16-inch alloys and alsothe XRS’ aero package.
The plain-jane sheetmetal does have its advantages, however; the wide doors make entry and exit easy, and the trunk is decently sized. Visibility all-around is excellent.
Sober interior
Inside the XRS, there isn’t much that makes you feel as though you’re driving a performance-oriented version of the Corolla. Still, the overall design is appealing and elegant, and some silver-coloured trim breaks the otherwise dark ambiance.
The Corolla’s switchgear is well laid out and easy to operate while driving. The fabric seats are supportive and interior space is more than adequate, front and back. Leather upholstery and heated seats are optional.
We just wish there was a little more equipment to go with the XRS’ asking price; Bluetooth connectivity and a USB port for the sound system aren’t high-end luxury features anymore.
Competition
The Corolla XRS starts out at $22,350, while a 5-speed automatic is available for $1,560 (which we find a little expensive) and the Leather Package adds another $1,735.
 |
| Inside the XRS, the overall design is appealing and elegant. |
More flair
In our humble opinion, aerodynamic add-ons can’t replace a sleek design, but the ones on the XRS really do improve the Corolla’s geriatric styling.
The smart-looking alloy wheels also contribute to the car’s sporty appearance, as does the mesh grille and smoked headlight clusters. For the record, the less-expensive Corolla S gets the base engine and 16-inch alloys and alsothe XRS’ aero package.
The plain-jane sheetmetal does have its advantages, however; the wide doors make entry and exit easy, and the trunk is decently sized. Visibility all-around is excellent.
Sober interior
Inside the XRS, there isn’t much that makes you feel as though you’re driving a performance-oriented version of the Corolla. Still, the overall design is appealing and elegant, and some silver-coloured trim breaks the otherwise dark ambiance.
The Corolla’s switchgear is well laid out and easy to operate while driving. The fabric seats are supportive and interior space is more than adequate, front and back. Leather upholstery and heated seats are optional.
We just wish there was a little more equipment to go with the XRS’ asking price; Bluetooth connectivity and a USB port for the sound system aren’t high-end luxury features anymore.
Competition
The Corolla XRS starts out at $22,350, while a 5-speed automatic is available for $1,560 (which we find a little expensive) and the Leather Package adds another $1,735.
 |
| The smart-looking alloy wheels also contribute to the car’s sporty appearance. |