Thanks for that news, Debbie Downer.....

I just test drove a Corolla Hatchback XSE
 

I got a coupon for $20 synthetic oil change at a local dealership so I jumped on it. I can't do my own oil change that cheap! They offered a $50 gift card if I do a test drive, so I figured I'd check out the 2019 Corolla Hatchback. He'll I'm making money off this oil change.

The styling is cool, it's roomy and I fit in the back seat. There's an awkward tablet stuck to the dash (welcome to 2019!) But I didn't test the radio out or mess with the infotainment system. The cruise control is a radial button thing on the wheel (like a Chevy) not on the Toyota stalk like I'm used to.

It's a NA 2.0L inline 4 transversely mounted, FWD. 6 speed MT. The clutch is extremely light but I had no probs and it felt great, it took no time to get used to it, though I wish it had more feel. The shifter felt great with little slop. The car was good to drive, but lacks balls.

I am a FRS owner. I am saying that it lacks balls. If being an FRS owner makes you an authority on anything, it's sackless cars.

I didn't get a chance to hoon it (the salesman may have gotten upset) but it's FWD, so there isn't much fun to do anyway (imho). The straight line acceleration is lacking. The steering (electric) is quick and responsive. It didn't feel like other sloppy econoboxes I've driven in the past.

There's a ton of safety tech. Lane departure, blind spot monitoring, the car will automatically steer to keep you in lane (it's not a Tesla, it's a subtle assist), smart cruise control, etc etc. For $24k, the car is impressive. It's not a particularly fun car, but it is a great value. This would be a good commuter car.

How long did you have to drive it to get the $50?

however long a test drive lasts I would think.

It was about 20 mins. I got to hit the highway and a back road and a boulevard.

It's like the FR-S. More fun on a track.
I got to drive it last Spring just before launch and it's quick and responsive as you mentioned. Carries itself around corners well, remains flat with less body roll than the civic hatch and mazda I drove too. But slower than both I believe.

Perhaps why there was less body roll... :iono:

I agree 100%! Thanks for the review!:thumbup:

Decent tires would go a long way toward improving grip.

Ironic that Corolla increased sporting points by going to multilink rear while previous segment handler Mazda 3 hatch went to twist beam and Kardashian Design.

Agree, clutch is feather light but is listed as a feature, L-PEC, along with the dual-mass flywheel DMF.

It isn't a GTI, but is $$$ less and more distinctly styled in a sea of clones, IMO.

In my region, there's $500 cash back and/or lease deals. Combined with dealer discounts, it's easy to find Corolla Hatch M/T's for 2.5K under MSRP, ~$22K. Not bad for the content although you'd have to switch from Android to Apple to get Waze and Google Maps. Otherwise would be a great DD with near hybrid fuel economy without the annoying CVT drone.

That was supposed to be a joke. :cry:

No one in North America pays sticker for a GTI. VW is throwing so much support behind them, be it finance, cash or lease, it's crazy. You could pick-up DSG sport versions (plaid cloth seats, LSD, big brakes and +10 hp/+15 lb. ft.) for $22k all day. All with the new extended warranty. That's how badly VW wants to move metal.

Let me know where in the Pacific Northwest. The lowest I've seen is $28K for a leftover '18 SE DSG before negotiating but including incentives. Not MSRP but not $22K either.

https://tinyurl.com/ydbgdxyb

Anyway, a friend bought a new '18 Autobahn and had to replace the driver's power window mechanism that stuck open in the first month and the steering rack during the second month. This is the third month and it's been in the shop longer than he's owned it awaiting parts. He applied for Lemon Law status but he may just have bad luck.

There's something to be said for the reliability of a vehicle designed and built by Toyota although it's early to say how well the '19+ Corolla will fare.

How does the Corolla handle compare to a new Impreza?

Why support a company who knowingly and willingly tried to deceive people?