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One word sums up the driving experience in the 2003 Toyota Corolla: transparent. That's a benefit to those who don't particularly enjoy driving. The Corolla gets the job done so nicely that it's difficult to fault.

Okay it's only got a 130-horsepower four-cylinder engine, so naturally its acceleration performance is not scintillating. But it's not supposed to be. Instead, it delivers its power smoothly thanks to the nicely matched electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission. It includes a shift logic system that helps hold a gear longer than it might otherwise, if it senses the car is going up an incline or the driver wants plenty of power while passing.

The power steering is just right, providing a nice feel without being too stiff or sloppy. The suspension has been tuned to give a smooth ride, which is helped by the longer wheelbase compared to the previous generation. Body roll has been minimized and the car feels secure at all speeds. Those who enjoy the crisp handling of a sports sedan will find the car's suspension a little too soft. These drivers may want to opt for the Matrix, which does have a slightly stiffer, more sporty suspension.

For those who enjoy doing their own shifting, the five-speed manual allows for more performance, as the engine's power can be better utilized. There is no difference in engine, transmission or suspension between the three trim levels; despite the S model being designated a sporty trim level.

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The Toyota Corolla is the car to consider, if you're looking for a sophisticated and utterly reliable sub-compact sedan that blends in so well it's almost non-existent. It's not too much of a stretch to say the Corolla is a baby Lexus, it certainly has the same DNA.

If you want something with the same mechanical components, but with some pizzazz, you're in luck as the Toyota Matrix, which is built off the same platform and has the same engine, offers more excitement and utility.

Some may complain that Toyota has been conservative with its new Corolla. But what it has cleverly done is create two very different cars - the Corolla for the conservative buyer and the Matrix for the young-at-heart person, who wants Toyota reliability with a look that stands out in the crowd. You have your choice - the Corolla or the Matrix.

by John Rettie

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