TOYOTA Corolla (US) Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

The new generation of the Corolla had a gorgeous exterior design with nice lines that made it look more expensive than it actually was.

The new model came with more technology, efficiency and became more fun to drive than the previous Corolla.

LED headlights were included regardless of the trim level, as well as auto high beam lights.

The Corolla was available in 6 trim levels: L, LE, LE Eco, SE, XSE and XLE.

The 2018 Corolla was driven by a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine that produced 132 hp and 128 pound-feet of torque. The LE Eco provided 140 hp.

The engines were mated with a continuously variable automatic transmission, and optionally, a 6-speed manual available for the SE trim level only.

The base model was greatly equipped and included 15-inch steel wheels, LED running lights, adaptive cruise control, a 6.1-touchscreen and a 6-speaker audio system with an USB port. The safety features included a rearview camera, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection and lane departure warning with steering assist.

The LE Eco added the 16-inch steels, heated mirrors, upgraded upholstery and automatic climate control (all features specific to the LE) and a more powerful engine with a tuned suspension and improved aerodynamics.

The XLE added a sunroof, keyless entry and ignition, leather-like upholstery, heated front seats and a bigger touchscreen display, all to enhance comfort.

With more than 40 million units produced, the Corolla was one of the most important vehicles in Toyota's lineup, and the Japanese automaker introduced a new version for it on the U.S. market in 2013.

Toyota first launched the Corolla's eleventh generation on its home market in 2012 and exported it a year later. This was one of the automaker's recipes for staying on top of the reliability index. In addition, it needed more time to adapt the vehicle for specific countries. That's one of the reasons why the U.S.-spec version was slightly different than the rest of the Corollas sold in other parts of the world.

As expected, the most obvious difference was on the car's front fascia. For American customers, the Corolla E170 featured a broad grille in the lower bumper, surrounded by a chromed trim. At the same time, depending on the trim level, it sported a piano-black main grille. From its profile, it revealed a longer overall length and wheelbase compared to its predecessor.

Inside, thanks Toyota installed a pair of bucket seats at the front and a bench seat in the back for three passengers. Thanks to its over 106" (2,7 m) wheelbase, those seated in the back enjoyed enough legroom. Yet, the one that sat in the middle had to avoid the center tunnel that crossed the floor from front to back. At the front, the driver was spoiled with a new dashboard that featured organic, curved lines on the upper side. On the binocular-style instrument cluster, Toyota installed larger dials for the speedometer and tachometer and an LCD for the onboard computer between them.

Under the hood, the automaker on its trustworthy 1.8-liter gasoline engine paired with either a six-speed manual, a four-speed automatic, or a CVT.

The Corolla was known as a mundane, dependable vehicle that could run forever but without being attractive in any other way. But Toyota changed that in 2013 when it introduced the 2014 model year, a US-spec version of this sedan.

In 2013, Toyota introduced the eleventh generation of the Corolla to the U.S. market, and despite sharing a similar shape as its predecessor, it was a complete makeover for the car. The front fascia didn't sport a humble design anymore, and it got a new, sporty appearance that finally became attractive to young buyers who didn't want to look like they stole their grandparents' keys. Moreover, the automaker offered some aerodynamic kits that furthermore improved the car's styling. Last but not least, the interior was far from being called conservative anymore. Even the instrument cluster looked advanced.

With its new and improved front fascia, the 2014 Corolla showed anyone that it can do more than just run forever; it could be fast, too. On the lower side of the bumper, it showed a trapezoidal, wide, and tall grille. Depending on the trim level, it also featured a chromed surrounding that further emphasized the sporty look of the vehicle. In addition, the automaker added a pair of side scoops for the fog lamps when fitted. The swept-back headlights featured a sharp design and flanked a narrow grille where the Toyota badge took center stage. From its profile, the body-colored door handles and mirrors complemented the stylish look of the vehicle. But the automaker continued that design update to the rear, where the taillights were extended from the quarter panels to the trunk lid, and added a lip spoiler as an option.

Inside, the front seats got higher bolstered areas, but not intrusive. The driver fronted an instrument cluster filled with two large dials that featured chromed surroundings. Between them, the automaker installed a small TFT display that showed information from the onboard computer. Starting with this generation of the Corolla, Toyota added a push-button start, which was available as an option. To complement the technology package, Toyota added a touchscreen for the infotainment system mounted on the center stack below the vents and above the HVAC controls. On the center console, the automaker placed the gear selector (or the stick for the manual transmission versions) and a storage compartment under the center armrest. In the back, the 60/40 split-folding bench seat was good for three adult-sized passengers, although the legroom was nothing to write home about.

Under the hood, Toyota installed a 1.8-liter engine that featured variable valve timing technology (VVTi) paired with either a six-speed manual, a four-speed automatic, or a CVT. Thanks to its improved suspension, the 2014 Corolla for the U.S. market provided its customers comfortable rides and good road holding.