Used Toyota Corolla cars for sale

Inside, the dash is a lesson in clarity and design, even if the steering only adjusts for height and not reach on early versions. Everything is well placed and the quality of the plastics, seats and switchgear is high. The cargo area is well thought out, too. It’s easy to fold the back seats and the boot is well shaped with a wide opening and little intrusion from the suspension. To cap it all, the Corolla is even good to drive, with a good balance to the handling, which is safe and competent with an acceptable level of body roll. On most roads you’ll find the Corolla comfortable and composed.

Running Costs
Insurance isn’t too much of an issue with lower-spec T2 cars rated at group 5 and T3 trim attracting a group 6 rating. And, the fuel economy needn't worry you, either. Toyota has always had a reputation for producing economical petrol engines and the 1.6-litre in the Corolla is no exception, with an official figure of 39.2mpg. The later diesel engine is a better bet than the earlier one as it returns 49.6mpg, as opposed to 47mpg. The only time the costs don't look so great is when you have to take the car in for work. Servicing costs over three years are going to be higher than what you would pay if you were running a Ford Focus or a Peugeot 307 estate. However, you can cut your costs by choosing a diesel model, because its engine can run up 20,000 miles before it needs a service, whereas the petrol needs fettling every 10,000 miles. Similarly, the average repair cost for a Toyota can be quite a bit higher than the cost of having a Nissan, Ford or Vauxhall rectified.

Hatchback
While all previous Toyota Corollas may have enjoyed an enviable reputation for reliability, they also suffered from something of a white good’s feel. Yes, they did the job that was required of them, but like a fridge or washing machine, you didn’t particularly care for them. This one is different. For a start, it looks more solid and expensive than previous models, something that’s reflected in the smartly designed, roomy, high-quality interior. Unlike previous versions there’s decent room for adults in the back seats. On top of that, Toyota also improved the drive significantly with this model. It’s pretty much as good to drive as a Ford Focus, even though its handling may not be quite as involving. Comfort and composure are excellent in all conditions. The engine range is strong with a choice of three diesel and three petrols, while safety and equipment levels are reasonable.

Running Costs
Even if you find the Corolla you’re after, don’t expect to pick it up for next to nothing. This version holds on to more of its value than previous models and you’ll be able to pick up rivals like the Vauxhall Astra and the Renault Megane for less cash. Diesel Corollas hold their value better than petrols, making the 1.6 T3 5dr an even more appealing buy. On the other hand, running costs are fine, and fuel economy is good right across the range. Of the two mainstream petrol engines the 1.4-litre is marginally the more economical, returning 42.2mpg compared with the 1.6-litre’s 40.4mpg. The later 114bhp 2.0-litre turbodiesel returns 49.6mpg and the 1.4 an outstanding 58.9mpg. Insurance for the range begins as low as group 3, and the most expensive model to run is the T Sport Compressor. With a 215bhp 1.8-litre supercharged petrol engine, it sold in small numbers and returned only 30.7mpg and sat in group 16 insurance.

MPV
Overall, this is a thoroughly sensible car. Its tall roof and ample width give front-seat occupants plenty of space, and the dashboard layout is simple. Visibility is good, too, but the lack of steering wheel reach adjustment is a disappointment. What's perhaps a surprise is that the Verso seats just five, whereas some rivals take seven. However, that leaves plenty of luggage space behind, and the rear chairs fold, tumble and slide to make the best use of space. Cargo space ranges from 417 to 973 litres depending on how you arrange the seats, and there are 22 different extra storage areas around the vehicle in case that's still not enough. The Verso was launched as part of the new Corolla range in January 2002, and its chassis was modified to take account of the more upright bodystyle. It works, too; the ride is well controlled to prevent passengers getting queasy, although it still lacks the balance of the hatchback. Wind and road noise are kept under control by the well insulated cabin, and while the diesel engine is always audible, the petrol units are quiet and refined. The 1.6 is particularly impressive.

Running Costs
The Verso was the first compact MPV Toyota had created based on its popular Corolla small family car. For that reason it sold well and is still desirable now as a used buy. The company’s formidable reputation for building reliable cars means it has held its value, too. In other words, don't expect to bag a bargain. On the other hand, running costs aren't too bad, and fuel economy is impressive across the range, with the 1.8 offering the lowest figure at 37.1mpg (34.4 with the auto box). The 1.6 will give 38.7mpg, but the diesel is the best performer at 43.5mpg. Insurance ratings are low for a family car of this size, starting at group 5 for the 1.6. The 1.8 is in group 7, while the diesel is group 5 or 6 depending on trim level.

Saloon
While all previous versions of the Toyota Corollas may have enjoyed an enviable reputation for reliability, they also suffered from something of a white good’s feel. Yes, they did the job that was required of them, but like a fridge or washing machine, you didn’t particularly care for them. This one is different. For a start, it looks more solid and expensive than previous models, something that’s reflected in the smartly designed, roomy, high-quality interior. And, unlike in previous versions there’s decent room for adults in the back seats. Toyota also significantly improved the way the car drove with this model. It’s pretty much as good to drive as a Ford Focus, even though its handling may not be quite as involving. Comfort and composure are excellent in all conditions. Last, but not least, safety and equipment levels are reasonable.

Running Costs
Even if you find the Corolla you’re after, don’t expect to pick it up for next to nothing. This version holds on to a higher proportion of its value than previous models and you’ll be able to pick up rivals like the Vauxhall Astra and the Renault Megane for less cash. Diesel Corollas hold their value better than petrols, making the 1.6 an even more appealing buy. Running costs shouldn't be a problem, though. Insurance begins as low as group 3, and fuel economy is good right across the range. Of the two mainstream petrol engines the 1.4-litre is marginally the more economical. And, while the 2.0-litre turbodiesel returns decent economy, the 1.4 is even better.