Toyota Corolla Hatchback (02-06) - Review

Review by Parkers on
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

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4 out of 5

Performance

Mainstream engines are the peppy and frugal 1.4 and 1.6-litre petrol engines. 2.0 D-4D sounds a little rougher than rival diesel engines but performs well enough, and older 90bhp replaced by a 1.4-litre version which is quieter than the 2.0-litre and more economical. T Sport is happiest at high revs which can be tiresome as you have to work harder to get the best out of it. Special edition T Sport Compressor is much better with smooth, linear but rapid acceleration. A shame that only 250 of these have been built.

3.5 out of 5

Handling

Safe and predictable handling with accurate steering and quite a slick gearchange. Suspension copes well with twisty roads while soaking up bumps and potholes on A and B-roads. It cruises happily on the motorway. Fun to drive when you're in the mood, hassle-free when you're not. T Sport offers a firmer ride and sharper responses. T Sport Compressor does a fine job of deploying its extra power to the front wheels without the unruliness you sometimes get in 200bhp-plus front-wheel drive cars.

  • Moving Exterior Toyota Corolla Hatchback (02-06)

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