2003 Toyota Corolla

How do you roll the *@!# window down,” my husband finally asks in a huff after repeatedly running his fingers up and down the armrest and center console for a button, a rocker switch, something to push.
“There,” I reply, pointing to the crank on the door’s lower panel.
“Oh,” he says, somewhat sheepishly. “Haven’t seen one of these in a while.”
He’s not alone. My 11-year-old son had never seen one.
“Whoa,” my son said slowly turning the crank, intrigued. “So that’s what they mean in those Grey Poupon commercials when they make that rotating motion with their hand.”
Neither of these men in my life were more amazed than I was, however, to find that my first test of a 2003 model would not only have manual windows, but that other endangered species: a $15,000 sticker. It’s a great car to boot. But then again, this is a 2003 Toyota Corolla, the next generation of the world’s top-selling car of all time. The Corolla has always been a crowd-pleaser for its economy and no-nonsense satisfaction. But these days, its segment is crowded with style, roominess and luxuries, too. Plain Jane doesn’t cut it anymore.

Crank windows excepted, the new competition is reflected in this redesigned Corolla, which is bigger, better equipped and better looking than its honorable ancestors.

The Good News
As is the trend in the compact segment, this new Corolla defies the theory that inexpensive means dull and ugly. Most apparent is its adaptation of the Lexus look. From its swept-back headlamps over the graceful profile to the tasteful rear design, this is a pretty car at any price. Keep in mind, too, that I had the most basic of the Corolla’s three models.

Inside is equally compelling, with full instruments, CD player, power mirrors, rear defrost and outside temperature gauge (one of my pet extras) all as standard equipment. The tasteful, quiet fabric and finish inside coupled with the impeccable fit of the dash, door trim, etc. gives this Corolla an upscale look. Thoughtful design throughout, like the little square pod that holds a cell phone, makes economy drivers feel like first-class citizens.

For a little bit more money, I could have even had power windows.

The Corolla’s new expansion in height, length and width creates more inside room and increases comfort. Safety was another priority in this redesign, with improved crash-worthiness, standard dual-stage air bags and side airbags as options.

As for this new Corolla’s performance, it, too, improves. Although the engine remains the same 1.8-liter twin cam 16-valve four-cylinder used in the past, revisions coax horsepower up a notch to 130 and the torque band broadens for better sustained response. The transmission has also been tweaked to maintain good acceleration despite the Corolla’s added weight.

The end product is a responsive, if not overzealous, compact sedan. Acceleration is lively enough, handling remains centered with nice weight to the steering, and the ride forgives more than you would expect. Although a manual transmission is standard, mine came with automatic which was figured into the base price. The automatic adjusts seamlessly to whatever demands you put on the engine.

The Bad News
The only time I didn’t love this Corolla was during rush hour on the interstate one gusty morning. I found myself constantly having to make adjustments to keep the Corolla steady, and that got old quickly.

While most compacts would have experienced similar turbulence, it seemed pronounced here. Maintaining highway speed, however, was effortless, a credit to the Corolla’s powertrain.

I would also like to see anti-lock brakes as standard safety equipment, but I understand cost containment for the consumer. Cruise control, which often comes standard even in the budget class, is also optional on this Corolla.

Gas mileage
EPA rated at 29 mpg city/38 highway. Excellent.

Price
Manufacturer’s base, $14,170;
Price as tested, $15,497

Is it worth it?
Having gorged on gas-guzzling SUVs and extravagant luxury power machines, I find it truly refreshing to see great things happening on the economy end of the car spectrum. This Corolla is a prime example. It offers looks, performance, comforts, fuel efficiency and a little pizzazz well under the average price.

Of course, no Corolla has ever been accused of tempting the enthusiast, but this one is certainly devilish delight for the budget-conscious. Even with air conditioning, side air bags and power door locks added as options, my Corolla CE still comes in under $15,500.

In sum, this 2003 model steps up the Corolla image without abandoning the no-nonsense basics of quality and affordability that made it so popular. All the evidence of that I needed was right in my hand every time I adjusted the window.

Beth Stein is a life-long car buff and free-lance journalist living in Nashville. She has reviewed new vehicles in print for 12 years as a weekly columnist for Nashville’s daily newspapers and on television for Road Test Magazine and Motor Trend Television. Currently, her reviews appear nationally on Car And Driver Television.