The 2009 Toyota Corolla comes in five derivatives. The standard model, simply called Corolla, is the least expensive yet includes fabric upholstery, air conditioning, CD/WMA/MP3 XM-ready radio, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, six-way manual driver seat, 60/40 split folding rear seat, outside temperature gauge, power mirrors, and engine immobilizer. Six airbags and ABS are standard. You can add an upgrade package (LE spec without painted mirrors), six-speaker/six-CD changer, cruise control, heated mirrors, lighter, and stability/traction control.
The popular LE is the next step up, and adds power windows, door locks, and color-matched outside mirrors. Options are the same as the Standard, plus 16-inch alloy wheels and remote keyless entry.
XLE is the lux-like Corolla, and builds on LE with 16-inch steel wheels and covers, wood grain trim, Optitron instruments, variable intermittent wipers, sliding lid center console, keyless entry, seatback pockets and better radio. The option list swells to include those above not standard, plus moonroof, alloy wheels, eight-speaker JBL audio system, and navigation, though the latter two can not be combined.
The S is the economy sporting model, with color-matched spoilers, fog lamps, black headlight housings, leather-trimmed steering wheel, and sport front seats the upgrades from the base model. Options are extensive and include everything mentioned for Standard, LE, XLE, and leather upholstery.
XRS is the top of the line. It's upgraded with the 2.4-liter engine, wider, 17-inch tires on alloy wheels, electronic stability control, trunk spoiler, rear disc brakes, strut tower brace, Optitron gauges, cruise, leather shifter and steering wheel, and chrome interior accents. Heated mirrors, two radio upgrades, navigation, power locks/windows, moonroof, and leather upholstery are among the options.
Safety features that come standard on all Corolla models include six airbags: dual frontal, front side-impact (for torso protection), and side curtain airbags (for head protection). ABS comes standard. Electronic stability control and traction control are optional and we recommend getting them. The Corolla comes with good seat belts, so wear them because they form your primary line of defense in a crash and allow everything else to work in your favor.