Toyota Corolla

The first Toyota Corolla’s in America were produced in 1968 and were small, boxy-looking vehicles with two different models (mostly trim styles) available. A list of the models and years they were available includes:

• 1968 to 1969 – 2-door wagon and 4-door sedan
• 1970 to 1974 – SR5 model added
• 1975 to 1978 – 3-door hatchback & 2-door hardtop added
• 1979 to 1983 – No significant part changes
• 1984 to 1987 – First front-wheel drive available with the SR5. GT-S, MR2 & FX models added
• 1988 to 1992 – Front wheel drive now on coupe & Liftback & FX hatchback is discontinued
• 1993 to 1997 – LE model discontinued in 1996 and DX wagon dropped in 1997
• 1998 to 2002 – Only sedan offered in VE, CE and LE models
• 2003 to Present – All aluminum engine introduced

Known issues across the years include:

• oil pump gasket failing in earlier models
• ignition module
• seatbelts not latching securely
• timing belts and electrical systems
• fuel tank and system
• engine head gaskets
• brake pads
• throttle linkage
• air conditioner – poor performance
• automatic transmission
• coolant leaks

Although there have been many style and mechanical changes to the Toyota Corolla, the colors made available have also changed frequently to reflect American tastes in automobiles. Solid colors such as black and silver have always been a mainstay, but harsher and more stand out colors such as ‘red’ and ‘blue’ were replaced with softer colors that were more of a blend such as ‘Barcelona Red or Blue Ribbon Metallic. The rumored development of a Hybrid Corolla to join Toyota’s growing line of hybrid cars indicates Toyota’s desire to stay in sync with the American mindset toward alternative energy sources and fuel efficiency. The move would pit Corolla in competition with the notoriously popular Toyota Prius since they both have the same price range, intended audience, and general features.

As the world’s #1 vehicle in terms of sales, the Toyota Corolla shows no signs of slowing down. This workhorse of the Toyota fleet does a remarkable job of keeping its resale value as well. With easy to find parts for replacement (though they aren’t often needed compared to other vehicles on the road), and a low-to-average cost replacement price structure, Toyota Corollas have proven to be a vehicle worthy of the status it has received on the American stage.