If your memory of the Toyota Corolla is stuck in the bland, forgettable era of the 1990s, it’s time for a serious update. The latest iterations of this iconic compact car are making a statement, and the 2015 Toyota Corolla S is a prime example. After spending a week thoroughly examining this model, it’s clear this isn’t your grandpa’s Corolla.
This 2015 Toyota Corolla S review dives deep into what makes this car stand out in a crowded market. Gone are the days of the Corolla being just a basic, economical choice. This version aims for more, offering a surprising blend of style, comfort, and features that might just change your perception of this long-standing nameplate.
The model I tested came in a striking Blue Crush Metallic, immediately catching the eye with its sporty 17-inch alloy wheels. These wheels weren’t just for show; they highlighted the presence of four-wheel disc brakes, a feature often appreciated by those who value responsive stopping power. Adding to the modern aesthetic were LED low-beam headlights, complemented by halogen high beams, along with body-colored side mirrors and a rear lip spoiler. Stepping inside, the interior was a pleasant surprise, draped in soft-touch black materials, with a significant amount being leather.
It appears Toyota, along with other automakers, recognized a crucial shift after the 2008 financial crisis: drivers of smaller cars still desire quality and refinement. The front bucket seats in this 2015 Corolla S review unit are a testament to this. They offer bolstering comparable to some Lexus models, and the leather upholstery is noticeably more luxurious than what was typical in mainstream Asian non-luxury cars a decade ago. The dashboard also contributes to the upscale feel with its soft-touch material and faux leather stitching, while the steering wheel is genuinely pleasant to hold. This interior is far from the penalty box some might expect from a compact car.
While the interior of the Corolla S impressed with its comfort, even accommodating car seats for children in the back, the sound insulation was less remarkable. Road noise from the tires was quite noticeable inside the cabin. This could potentially be mitigated with less aggressive tires and higher sidewalls than the equipped 215/45R17 tires. However, such a change might compromise the car’s handling, which is respectable, albeit somewhat numb. Engine noise isolation seemed adequate for city driving. However, under heavy acceleration for highway merging, the 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine’s sound became somewhat coarse within the cabin. This engine note might be more appreciated with a manual transmission, but unfortunately, the Corolla S is only available with a CVT.
Fortunately, the audio system in the Toyota Corolla S provided excellent sound quality to counteract the road noise. The test model featured Toyota’s Entune Premium Audio, which included separate tweeters in the A-pillars. This enhanced the high frequencies, allowing the door and rear shelf woofers to deliver impressive bass for a factory sound system. During my week with the Corolla, I listened to Muse’s “Drones” album, and the speakers handled the album’s mix of heavy bass and sharp highs exceptionally well.
The only minor issue with the Entune touchscreen audio system was a glitch when skipping tracks via Bluetooth streaming from my phone. This occasionally caused the music to stutter, mimicking a slow internet connection, even though the music was downloaded to the phone’s SD card.
However, when considering a Toyota Corolla Car Review, it’s essential to acknowledge the strong competition in the compact sedan segment.
- While the S trim is marketed as the sportier Corolla, those truly seeking a sporty driving experience might lean towards the Ford Focus. While the Corolla S handles adequately, it doesn’t receive the same accolades for “European handling balance” often given to the Focus.
- For buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency, comparing real-world mileage across competitors is crucial. The 2015 Toyota Corolla S boasts EPA ratings of 29 MPG city/37 MPG highway/32 MPG combined. However, I only achieved 33 MPG during a week of mostly highway driving. Fuelly owner reports suggest my mileage is slightly above average, which is somewhat disappointing considering I typically exceed EPA highway estimates in my personal vehicle. Chevrolet Cruze Eco owners with the 1.4-liter turbo engine report similar fuel economy to my Corolla S experience. Conversely, the Ford Focus SFE EcoBoost with its 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine might achieve around 37 MPG based on Fuelly owner reports. Therefore, fuel economy is highly dependent on driving style and conditions, and competitors might offer better MPG.
- The “Toyota Tax” is a real factor when considering the Corolla S. In my local area, the lowest “internet price” for a Corolla S at dealerships is no less than $21,000. In contrast, the Nissan Sentra SR, the sporty version of the Sentra, can be found for as low as $17,677 before negotiation, both prices including navigation systems. The Ford Focus SFE EcoBoost could be had for $16,997 pre-negotiation, although it comes with a manual transmission, while the others are automatics. The Chevy Cruze Eco generally undercuts the Corolla S by a couple of thousand dollars, and buyers might find more price flexibility at Chevy dealerships.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual priorities. The 2015 Toyota Corolla S is undeniably attractive, possesses a masculine appeal suitable for family drivers, and offers a comfortable ride for daily commutes. However, buyers less focused on sporty aesthetics might find better fuel economy and a quieter, smoother ride in alternatives like the Nissan Sentra SR, Ford Focus SFE EcoBoost, or Chevy Cruze Eco. These competitors might also offer more attractive pricing compared to the Corolla S. Personally, my preference might lean towards the Ford, primarily due to my preference for manual transmissions and a stronger emphasis on fuel economy.
Despite these considerations, the Corolla S remains a compelling option for many. It’s a choice that requires no justification. For those seeking a reliable, stylish, and well-rounded compact sedan, the 2015 Toyota Corolla S deserves serious consideration, even if it comes at a slightly higher price point.
2015 Toyota Corolla S Premium Specs (as tested):
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $22,905
Price as tested: $24,888
Optional equipment: Paint Protection Film ($395), Mudguards ($129), Illuminated Door Sill Enhancements ($309), Four Season Floor Mat Package ($325)
Pros:
- Attractive Design
- Comfortable and Refined Interior
- Excellent Audio System
Cons:
- Noticeable Road Noise
- No Manual Transmission Option for Sporty S Model
- Higher Price Compared to Rivals
Photos by Lyndon Johnson
