Used Toyota Corolla Hatchback 2002 - 2007 review
Best ever Corolla
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What's the used Toyota Corolla like?
Ownership cost
Our recommendations
Reliability
Stuart Milne
Updated: 1 January 2006
How we test cars
What's the used Toyota Corolla like?
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.
Overview
Best ever Corolla
Pros
- Decent room, a solid interior and a good drive
- Reliable, too
Cons
- It's expensive and the base diesel engine is gutless
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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.
Tips & Advice
How to test drive a car
There’s no substitute for a test drive in a new car. Take it on a variety of roads and surfaces to ensure it measures up.
Will the car fit your needs?
As part of the test drive, fill the car with regularly-carried luggage, and make sure the family can get comfy before you buy
Ownership cost
How much does cost to run a Toyota Corolla?
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 our 1.6 T3 5dr an even more appealing buy.
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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.
Tips & Advice
Never miss a motoring date
Remembering to arrange insurance, book a service or buy breakdown cover can be a pain. Fortunately, My What Car? is here to help
Our recommendations
Which used Toyota Corolla should I buy?
All models have a four-star Euro NCAP safety rating, but our preference is for the more practical five-door hatchback over the three-door hatch or the saloon. All come with decent boot space, but the saloon's engine range is limited.
Steer clear of the early, less powerful 89bhp 2.0-litre D-4D engine which struggles when the car is fully laden. Its replacement, from May 2003, was only a 1.4-litre, but it does a better job, although you'll need to stretch to the 114bhp 2.0 D-4D for the strongest diesel punch.
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However, when you take cost into account, best of all is the eager-revving 109bhp 1.6 petrol, while the 95bhp 1.4 petrol puts in a reasonable, if less swift, performance.
Of the various trims, we recommend T3, as air-con was only standard on T2 models following the facelift in July 2004. T3, on the other hand, features climate control, alloy wheels and rear electric windows over the already generous T2. Furter up the range, and the price lists, T Spirit cars get an electric sunroof.
Tips & Advice
Avoid ULEZ and clean-air zone fines
If you regularly drive into a clean air zone, you’ll want to ensure your next car is compliant to avoid costly fines
How reliable is the Toyota Corolla Cross ?
Toyota Corolla Cross
Read reliability
Used cars available now
In partnership with
Toyota Corolla
1.4 VVT-i T3 5dr
£999
Toyota Corolla
1.6 VVT-i T Spirit 5dr
£1,195
Toyota Corolla
1.6 VVT-i T Spirit 5dr
£1,490
Toyota Corolla
1.4 VVT-i T3 5dr
£1,500
Toyota Corolla
1.4 VVT-i Colour Collection 5dr
£1,599
Toyota Corolla
1.6 VVT-i Colour Collection 3dr
£1,695
Toyota Corolla
1.4 VVT-i Colour Collection 5dr
£1,995
Toyota Corolla
1.6 VVT-i Colour Collection 5dr
£1,995
Toyota Corolla
1.6 VVT-i Colour Collection 5dr
£2,000
See all available cars
About the writer
Name: Stuart Milne
Title: Digital editor
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Stuart has been a motoring journalist for more than 25 years, writing and editing for a wide range of consumer titles. Today, Stuart is responsible for the smooth running of whatcar.com and all of its related social and digital channels. And he’s the man responsible for making sure you're able to find What Car?’s industry-leading content whenever you search for it.
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