Toyota Corolla Hatchback (02-06) - Review

Review by Parkers on 14 January 2006

The latest Corolla was an attempt to prove Toyota was the equal of Volkswagen in terms of build quality helped by a European look to car. This was further refined in 2004, although the Corolla still has the image of a dependable car rather than an exciting one, or one with badge appeal. Even the T Sport seems to have much of the fun taken out of it, while many find it tiresome working the engine to the 6200rpm point where its performance starts to kick in. The exception is the T Sport Compressor - a 250 unit limited edition fitted with a supercharger and with power boosted to 215bhp from 190bhp. It offers a relatively exclusive hot hatchback with smooth performance, good handling and a superb exhaust note.

4 out of 5

Other Toyota reviews

4 out of 5

Summary

New price range:

£10,813 - £20,040

Used price range:

£1,723 - £7,043

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Space, engines, equipment, quality

Diesel lacks refinement

Driving & Performance

Performance

4 out of 5
"Mainstream engines are the peppy and frugal 1.4 and 1.6-litre petrol engines. 2.0 D-4D sounds a..."
Handling

3.5 out of 5
"Safe and predictable handling with accurate steering and quite a slick gearchange. Suspension copes..."

Comfort

Comfort

3.5 out of 5
"Plenty of room for four adults. Seats are comfy for long journeys with enough adjustment on most..."
Practicality

3.5 out of 5
"The boot is roomy and a good size for its class, certainly adequately proportioned to carry the..."
Equipment

3.5 out of 5
"Entry-level T2 models have electric front windows, CD stereo and remote central locking. T3 adds..."
Behind the wheel

4 out of 5
"Comfortable to drive, thanks to a well-thought-out driving position, comfortably sited pedals and..."

Costs

Running costs

4 out of 5
"Major Services are 20,000 miles apart although Toyota still like to see the cars for a 'health..."
Green credentials

3.5 out of 5
"Corolla scores well on the eco front. With an average of 163 g/km CO2 across the range, its..."

Safety & Reliability

Safety

3.5 out of 5
"Side airbags, ABS, five three-point rear seat belts and ISOFIX child seat anchor points are all..."
Reliability

4.5 out of 5
"Too early to say, but Toyota's reputation is built on longevity - we've certainly heard of no..."

Buying & Selling

Buying new

3 out of 5
"Still in demand, but there are deals around. Money off cheaper models or a finance contribution from..."
Buying used

4 out of 5
"Not as many about as a Ford Focus or Vauxhall Astra, but worth seeking out. Not a big fleet seller..."
Selling

3.5 out of 5
"Strong demand for the right models. T3 sells well, T2 not so good unless cheap. Limited edition T..."