Nearly 40 years after the Corolla was introduced to American drivers, a redesigned, 10th-generation 2009 Corolla hits the road with numerous improvements and a Good overall crash-test rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
In a recent test, IIHS rated the Corolla Good for structure, restraints, and most injury measurements on its crash dummies. Head/neck got an Acceptable rating, the lowest mark for this sedan. Performance was undoubtedly aided by side- and side-curtain air bags—welcomed features in any vehicle, especially a small car. The ’09 Corolla also includes anti-lock brakes (ABS) with electronic brake force distribution and brake assist for emergencies, and neck-protective active front headrests.
While it may have matured, the new Corolla remains true to the brand's role as a subcompact sedan, with dimensions similar to the model it replaces. But it offers an all-new body with a lean, muscular shape, and it delivers increased interior and luggage room, more power, more economical engines and an all-new chassis and suspension.
Read our road test of the 2009 Toyota Corolla, in which we wrote: “For someone moving out of an older Corolla or almost any other small car, these much-better new Corollas should be highly satisfying.”
