2005 Toyota Corolla 1.8 GSX

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Author: Wilmer Muller

For decades the Corolla has proven that it is the vehicle of choice for many South Africans. Month after month, year after year and decade after decade it has dominated South African car sales.

The Toyota Corolla 180i GSX is the range's flagship.

Some people argued that the Corollas of the 'eighties and 'nineties were "boring" and not very inspiring. Yes, the range had a dull and very Japanese image, but this all changed with the introduction of the latest generation in 2002.

The Corolla for the new millennium appeared much more stylish, and quite European too. Last year the Corolla also received a freshen-up, boosting its European look even further.

The styling changes include a new frontal treatment with a restyled grille and front bumper. At the rear the changes are less dramatic but there is a new rear light cluster treatment.

Unlike its predecessors the Corolla appears quite elegant and some even find the look sporty. Its whole design speaks of European influences - from the stubby and prominent nose to the short and sharp rear.

Toyota has also paid a lot of attention to detail with the design enhancing the car's more upmarket look.

The latest Corolla's interior is a big leap forward when compared to previous models. Not only is fit and finish good but as with the exterior the stylish theme also comes through.

The perceived quality of materials used is good, too, although not yet quite on par with that of Renault or VW.

The GSX features a two-tone grey finish for the dashboard and door trim panels. The range-topper also comes with leather finish and "Optitron" instrument illumination.

Img src=http://www.wheels24.co.za /Images/Photos/20050412092457CorollaInt-250.jpg align=left>

Furthermore this model's centre console has a smoked wood finish - which unfortunately for some observers seemed a bit tacky.

Overall ergonomics are good and the controls for the air-conditioning and audio system are easy to operate. Standard satellite control for the audio system on the steering wheel is a welcome feature.

In general the Corolla is packed with standard features and our GSX test car came with a six-disc front-loading CD shuttle, all-round electric windows, dual airbags and much more.

A big plus factor for the Corolla is its spacious interior. Thanks to its long wheelbase the Corolla offers ample room for all passengers. Furthermore bootspace is also quite generous and can be increased by folding the rear seats down.

The Corolla isn't always a very inspiring car to drive but it is without doubt more than capable for everyday use. Under the bonnet is a 1.8-litre engine which kicks out 100 kW at 6 000 r/min while torque is 171 Nm at 4 200 r/min.

It comes with a five-speed manual gearbox, which is the car's biggest drawback as it feels unrefined and imprecise.

In fact, despite a bit of tweaking, this gearbox is basically similar to that of the previous generation Corolla, and you can feel that it is "stuck" in the 'nineties. Changing gears feels very mechanical and not slick.

The clutch seems a bit heavy too, but it is something you can get used to.

Unlike previous Corollas the new model offers acceptable ride quality and in general the car feels composed on the road. There is not too much body roll and road grip is also good.

In general the Corolla feels quite confident and the 1.8-litre engine offers enough instant power when needed.

Furthermore the sedan is a great all-rounder and a pleasure to drive in town as it is easy to manoeuvre. The car's power steering is nicely weighted and responds well to the driver's input.

The engine sometimes gets vocal when you push the Corolla, but it does feel at ease at cruising speeds.

Stopping power is good too, thanks to ABS brakes.

Conclusion

The Corolla's boring image is something of the past and Toyota has done a great job of combining sensibility with style.

Flair and elegance is now also part of the Corolla vocabulary together with words such as reliable and value-for-money.

However, we think the "lesser" Corollas with the 1.4 and 1.6 litre engines are better buys.

Our range-topping test car, with a price tag of about R190 000, faces tough competition from rivals offering a more refined driving experience. In this price bracket buyers can also choose from the new Astra 1.8 Sport and Renault Megane 2.0.

But in general the Corolla lives up to the values one expects from Toyota such as the company's reputation for building reliable vehicles.

Furthermore the Corolla comes loaded with safety and comfort features.

Again Toyota has produced a highly sought-after car which has become a favourite choice for South African car buyers.

Pluses:

Unrefined transmission