The 2012 Toyota Corolla receives key upgrades across the lineup. Striving to edge out other popular compact sedans such as the Honda Civic, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cruze and Hyundai Elantra, the Japanese manufacturer added new standard features and reduced pricing for even greater value than what the outgoing car offered.
For 2012, CE, LE and S models carry over the 1.8L 4-cylinder engine that produces 132 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque. The top-of-the-line XRS boasts a 2.4L mill rated at 158 horsepower and 162 lb-ft. All come standard with a 5-speed manual gearbox save for the LE, which uses a 4-speed automatic. The latter is optional on CE and S models, while a 5-speed autobox with sequential multi-mode shifter is available with the XRS.
In the suspension and braking departments, the Corolla still relies on MacPherson struts and disc brakes up front as well as a torsion beam and drum brakes in the back. Only the sportier XRS benefits from a fully independent sport-tuned suspension, and disc brakes at all corners. When not riding on the standard 15'' steel wheels, the car gets 16'' or 17'' alloys depending on the trim level.
Regular fabric seats can be found in the CE and LE, while the S and XRS offer sport buckets. A 60/40 split folding rear seat accommodates two adults and a third, smaller passenger. Climate control is optional on the CE and standard on other models. Both the LE and XRS now arrive with a power moonroof.
The 2012 Toyota Corolla offers multiple option packages starting with the Convenience Package, which includes a 6-speaker stereo with Bluetooth, USB port and steering wheel-mounted audio controls. The Enhanced Convenience Package also adds heated front seats, power windows, and cruise control.
The Upgrade Package and Premium Package available with the LE have been slightly revised since Bluetooth, auxiliary and USB inputs now come standard with this model. Toyota decided to throw in a leather-wrapped steering wheel and 8-way power adjustable driver's seat.
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| For the Corolla S, the MSRP is $20,455. (Photo: Toyota) |
For 2012, CE, LE and S models carry over the 1.8L 4-cylinder engine that produces 132 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque. The top-of-the-line XRS boasts a 2.4L mill rated at 158 horsepower and 162 lb-ft. All come standard with a 5-speed manual gearbox save for the LE, which uses a 4-speed automatic. The latter is optional on CE and S models, while a 5-speed autobox with sequential multi-mode shifter is available with the XRS.
In the suspension and braking departments, the Corolla still relies on MacPherson struts and disc brakes up front as well as a torsion beam and drum brakes in the back. Only the sportier XRS benefits from a fully independent sport-tuned suspension, and disc brakes at all corners. When not riding on the standard 15'' steel wheels, the car gets 16'' or 17'' alloys depending on the trim level.
Regular fabric seats can be found in the CE and LE, while the S and XRS offer sport buckets. A 60/40 split folding rear seat accommodates two adults and a third, smaller passenger. Climate control is optional on the CE and standard on other models. Both the LE and XRS now arrive with a power moonroof.
The 2012 Toyota Corolla offers multiple option packages starting with the Convenience Package, which includes a 6-speaker stereo with Bluetooth, USB port and steering wheel-mounted audio controls. The Enhanced Convenience Package also adds heated front seats, power windows, and cruise control.
The Upgrade Package and Premium Package available with the LE have been slightly revised since Bluetooth, auxiliary and USB inputs now come standard with this model. Toyota decided to throw in a leather-wrapped steering wheel and 8-way power adjustable driver's seat.
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| The USB inputs now come standard with this model. (Photo: Toyota) |