2014 Toyota Corolla ECO
How far do you want—or need—to go on a gallon? That is the main determinant for selecting the new Toyota Corolla Eco. Other models in the lineup are sportier looking or priced for less; this fuel sipper offers up terrific EPA ratings and good real-world numbers to go along with typical Toyota virtues.
The Eco uses a 1.8-liter four cylinder engine with variable valve timing and lift, which has an additional 8hp over other Corolla motors, for a total of 140; torque is 126lb-ft. It is paired with a continuously variable transmission with a special Eco mode. The most irksome thing about the transmission is that there is a substantial amount of lag built into it, so leaving a stop light or such is scarier than it should be. Real-world fuel usage was 28-29mpg, just slightly off its city rating, but unsurprising due to the need to flog the Toyota to keep up with fast-moving urban traffic.
While less objectionable than some CVTs, this gearbox is no match for the Skyactiv 6-speed auto in a Mazda3 (tested here), which turns similar real-world fuel economy numbers yet slaughters the Corolla in acceleration—0-60mph in 7.5 vs. 9.5 seconds), and driver appeal.
Granted, the Corolla has much more room inside—in fact, it has more rear legroom than larger sedans like Chevy’s Malibu and Impala—but its interior is subpar in apparent quality and certainly in aesthetic appeal. The most egregious sins are the horrid vacuum-formed faux stitching liberally spread throughout, especially on the shiny, cheap looking steering wheel hub.
At least the Premium model tested was loaded with nice, useful equipment, such as a sliding sunroof, smart key entry/exit, navigation, HD Radio, Sirius/XM radio and Bluetooth streaming for audio.
The Corolla Eco (aside from the engine noises exacerbated by the CVT) is a quiet and refined place to listen to all those sources too. Wind noise and tire roar are well contained, and the Toyota rides quite well on its tall-sidewalled, low rolling resistance tires, though there is a lack of rebound damping in the shocks, meaning some big bumps really upset the car. Electric power steering is of course feel-free, but is accurate enough, and the brakes, comprised of front discs and rear drums, adequate for daily use.
One thing in the Toyota’s favor is that it now looks distinctive, and those tall tires help fill the massive fender gaps that make the sportier, S model appear under-tired. The Corolla Eco is also conspicuously good value, when you figure how much equipment it has, and how reliable it is likely to be.
EPA ratings: 30/40mpg; 34mpg combined
Price as tested: $23,270
Here is what Toyota has to say about it.
Colorado AvidGolfer is the state’s leading resource for golf and the lifestyle that surrounds it. It publishes eight issues annually and proudly delivers daily content via www.coloradoavidgolfer.com.
