Unveiled: 2014 Toyota Corolla

Given that the current Corolla, in the twilight of its product cycle, is the best-selling compact car in the United States so far this year, Toyota could have been forgiven for giving the popular small sedan a minor facelift for 2014 and calling it a day.

Instead, Toyota has avoided taking the easy way out and introduced a thoroughly redesigned – but not quite all-new - 11th generation version of its small sedan with fresh, Furia-inspired styling, a more spacious and contemporary interior, and 40+ mpg on the highway for certain model configurations.

Though there are several notable carry-over elements, including its volume engine and entry-level four-speed automatic transmission, by and large the Corolla is new and vastly improved.

”Iconic Dynamism” Inside and Out
Fractionally lower and wider but noticeably longer (3.9 inches) than before, the 2014 Corolla wears much more expressive sheetmetal that’s derived from Toyota’s new “Iconic Dynamism” design language.

Overall, the look strongly resembles that of the Furia concept, albeit without some of the show car's fanciful flourishes. The front end features a prominent trapezoidal air intake and segment-first standard LED lowbeam headlights, while sharply canted C-pillars and sculpted taillights give the rear a dash of flair.

Corolla S models can be spec’d with 17-inch alloy wheels similar to the Furia’s rims, while the rest of the lineup benefits from other new 15-, 16- and 17-inch steel wheel and hubcap or alloy wheel designs.

Perhaps the most significant stylistic changes take place inside, where the functional but extremely dated dashboard found in the old Corolla has been replaced by a modern-looking, horizontally-oriented setup. Piano-black trim and metallic accents lend the cabin a more upscale feel, as does ornamental stitching on the leading edge of the dash.

A version of Toyota’s app-based Entune touchscreen infotainment system and a navigation system will be on offer, but the automaker isn’t ready to share specific details just yet. It did state that the Corolla will use two different instrument cluster designs: a three-gauge unit for lower-trim models and a two-gauge setup with a 3.5-inch inch TFT display for the Corolla S.

As the Corolla’s 3.9-inch increased overall length is due entirely to an extended wheelbase, rear seat space is significantly improved.  Also helping in this regard are thinner front seat backs, pushed-back rear seat hip points, and a flatter floor made possible by re-routed exhaust pipes.

Under the Hood
On the powertrain front, the 2014 Corolla is a mixed bag of new, mildly updated and carry-over components.

Most Corolla models will benefit from a new continuously variable transmission that Toyota has dubbed the CVTi-S (the “i” and “S” stand for  “intelligent” and “Shift). Toyota says that the CVTi-S will significantly boost fuel economy, but without the awkward “rubber band” phenomenon exhibited by many CVTs because it features seven stepped “gears” that simulate the feel of a conventional automatic.  

A new-for-2014 LE Eco model will achieve over 40 mpg on the highway (official mileage figures haven’t yet been released) by pairing the CVTi-S with an upgraded version of the old Corolla’s 1.8-liter four-cylinder. The mill uses Toyota’s Valvematic variable valve timing and lift system to maximize efficiency and produce 140 horsepower and 126 lb-ft of torque.

The rest of the Corolla lineup will be equipped with a carryover, non-variable-lift 1.8-liter four-cylinder, which is good for 132 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque.

Surprisingly, entry-level Corollas will continue to offer an antiquated four-speed automatic as the two-pedal transmission choice. Buyers interested in rowing their own gears can look forward to a new six-speed manual.

Underpinning it all is a more rigid platform that makes extensive use of high-strength steel and also boasts additional structural bracing. Though the basic suspension layout still consists of MacPherson struts up front and a torsion beam in the rear, the new Corolla S will feature unique coil, damper, and bushing tunings – meaning that, unlike the current model, its sportiness will actually be more than skin deep.

Equipment/Availability/Pricing
The 2014 Corolla will be offered in L, LE, LE ECO and S trim levels. All will come standard with A/C, power windows and locks, Bluetooth connectivity and eight airbags. A navigation system, heated seats, SofTex imitation leather upholstery and a proximity key will be optional.

In-depth information on trim level content and pricing will be available closer to the sedan’s on-sale date this fall.