The 2014 Toyota Corolla marked a significant step forward for the world’s most popular compact sedan, bringing a dramatically enhanced design, improved efficiency, and Toyota’s renowned quality to a broad audience. Staying true to its legacy, the 2014 Corolla offered exceptional value within the competitive compact segment, appealing to both budget-conscious buyers and those seeking a more refined driving experience. This model year introduced a range of trims, each designed to cater to different needs and preferences, ensuring there was a Corolla for virtually every compact car shopper.
The 2014 Corolla lineup presented four core grades: the base L, the popular LE, the sporty S, and the fuel-efficient LE Eco. This structure allowed Toyota to target a diverse customer base, from those prioritizing essential features and affordability to individuals desiring premium amenities and enhanced fuel economy.
The entry-level Corolla L started at an MSRP of $16,800 when equipped with a new 6-speed manual transmission, emphasizing Toyota’s commitment to value. The automatic 4-speed version was also competitively priced at $17,400. Even at this base level, the Corolla L was generously equipped with features typically found in higher trims, including:
- Striking LED lowbeam headlamps accompanied by LED daytime running lights for improved visibility and a modern aesthetic.
- Standard Bluetooth connectivity, enabling hands-free calling and audio streaming, a must-have for today’s connected drivers.
- Whiplash-Injury-Lessening (WIL) seats for both the driver and front passenger, prioritizing safety and comfort.
- A comprehensive suite of eight airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag and a passenger seat cushion airbag, showcasing Toyota’s dedication to occupant protection.
Stepping up to the Corolla LE, priced from $18,300 (just a slight increase over the previous year’s LE), buyers gained access to a more upscale array of features designed to enhance convenience and comfort. Targeting the core of the compact sedan market, the LE trim included:
- A backup monitor, significantly aiding in parking and low-speed maneuvers.
- Climate control for maintaining a comfortable cabin temperature regardless of external conditions.
- Cruise control, a valuable feature for relaxed highway driving and fuel efficiency.
- Keyless entry, adding convenience to daily vehicle access.
- Toyota’s Entune Audio system, featuring a 6.1-inch touchscreen display, providing access to audio and vehicle settings.
- The new CVTi-S transmission, contributing to improved fuel economy compared to previous models and offering a smoother driving experience.
For those seeking a more dynamic and visually engaging Corolla, the S grade, starting at $19,000 (a price reduction from the previous year), delivered a sportier aesthetic and driving feel. The Corolla S distinguished itself with:
- A more aggressive front grille design with a piano black finish and chrome surround, giving it a distinctive road presence.
- Unique suspension tuning, particularly when paired with the available 17-inch wheel package, for enhanced handling and a more engaging driving experience.
- Available paddle shifters with the CVTi-S transmission, allowing drivers to manually select from seven simulated gear ratios for a more involved driving experience.
- A sport cluster gauge with a TFT multi-information display, providing key vehicle information in a modern and easily readable format.
- An ornate piano black instrument panel, adding a touch of sporty sophistication to the interior.
- Supportive sport seats, designed to provide enhanced bolstering during spirited driving.
- A leather-wrapped steering wheel, improving grip and adding a premium feel to the driving experience.
The innovative Corolla LE Eco trim, priced from $18,700, prioritized fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance. This model achieved impressive mileage figures through a combination of:
- A 140-horsepower Valvematic-equipped engine, optimizing valve timing and lift for both power and efficiency.
- Aerodynamic enhancements to the vehicle’s body, reducing drag and improving fuel economy at highway speeds.
- Unique CVTi-S transmission tuning, specifically calibrated for maximizing fuel efficiency.
The Corolla LE Eco was projected to achieve an EPA highway fuel economy rating of 42 mpg, positioning it as a leader in its class for automatic transmission-equipped vehicles, excluding hybrids, electric vehicles, and diesels.
Expanding the 2014 Corolla lineup further, Toyota introduced “Plus” and “Premium” sub-grades for the LE, S, and LE Eco trims. These models added desirable features as standard equipment, building upon the already well-equipped base grades.
- LE Plus: Included 16-inch alloy wheels and integrated fog lights for enhanced style and visibility.
- LE Premium: Added 16-inch alloy wheels, integrated fog lights, and Softex synthetic leather seats for a more upscale interior feel.
- S Plus: Featured 17-inch alloy wheels and rear disc brakes for improved braking performance and sporty aesthetics.
- S Premium: Combined 17-inch alloy wheels, rear disc brakes, and Softex seats, offering a blend of sporty features and premium comfort.
- LE Eco Plus: Included 16-inch alloy wheels, integrated fog lights, a chrome beltline for added exterior flair, and an Eco driving mode to further optimize fuel efficiency.
- LE Eco Premium: Offered 16-inch alloy wheels, integrated fog lights, chrome beltline, Eco driving mode, and Softex seats, representing the most feature-rich and fuel-efficient Corolla in the lineup.
With the addition of these Plus and Premium models, the 2014 Toyota Corolla family expanded to an impressive twelve distinct configurations, offering a wide spectrum of choices to meet diverse customer needs and budgets. The comprehensive model pricing structure further highlighted Toyota’s commitment to value across the entire range.
| Grade | Transmission | MY14 MSRP | MY13 MSRP | Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| L | 6MT | $16,800 | $16,230 | $570 |
| L | 4AT | $17,400 | $17,060 | $340 |
| LE | CVTi-S | $18,300 | $18,180 | $120 |
| LE Plus | CVTi-S | $18,700 | – | NA |
| LE Premium | CVTi-S | $19,400 | – | NA |
| S | CVTi-S | $19,000 | $19,060 | -$60 |
| S Plus | CVTi-S | $19,700 | – | NA |
| S Premium | CVTi-S | $20,400 | – | NA |
| S Plus | 6MT | $21,300* | $18,230 | $3,070 |
| ECO | CVTi-S | $18,700 | – | NA |
| ECO Plus | CVTi-S | $19,400 | – | NA |
| ECO Premium | CVTi-S | $20,100 | – | NA |
*The Corolla S Plus 6MT model included additional standard features such as 17” alloy wheels, moonroof, Entune™ Premium Audio with Navigation and App suite, and Smart Key.
For further customization, Toyota offered option packages on all Plus and Premium models, allowing buyers to tailor their Corolla to their specific preferences.
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