17/07/2008 16:08. Toyota's introduced the latest generation of the venerable Corolla, and my week testing a Capri Sea Metallic XLE left me pondering a few points.

Let's establish right up front that the Corolla is a dependable choice for those looking for long-lasting transportation. At one point, it used to be Toyota's entry-level small car, but now that role is filled by the Yaris 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan. When I parked my tester next to a 3-generation-old Camry, the comparison hit me. As the prices creep up along with the size and weight of just about every vehicle, it seems a pattern is emerging. The 2009 Corolla occupies a similar marketing niche that the 2007 Camry did.

The new Corolla is 2.4-inches wider and a smidgen lower and longer. It seems quieter and more refined than I remember... // Norristown Times Herald