2014 Toyota Corolla Debuts with More Power, Interior Space

Either way, we're talking around a million individual units per year, and over 40 million over the car's lifetime on the market, so the redesign of Toyota's compact sedan is big-time news for the Japanese automaker that it needs to get right.

The Toyota Corolla was last redesigned way back in 2008, meaning the 2014 model is a long-overdue update to the C-segment sedan. Its age shows when compared to newer rivals like the Honda Civic, Chevy Cruze, Hyundai Elantra and the aforementioned Ford Focus when comparing technology features, fuel mileage and interior roominess. In an effort to solve those demerits, Toyota has added nearly four inches to the 2014 Corolla's wheelbase and will offer a new continuously variable transmission with seven simulated gear ratios.

Engine choices consist of two available 1.8-liter four-cylinder units, one with 132 horsepower and 128 pound-feet of torque, and another more efficient version that uses Toyota's new Valvematic technology to offer 140 horses and 126 lb-ft of torque. Eco and Sport modes will be selectable by the driver.

Fuel mileage jumps to an estimated highway rating of "over 40 miles per gallon," says Toyota, when properly equipped. We take that to mean the CVT, as the base L model is still saddled with an old-as-dirt four-speed automatic. At least a six-speed manual gearbox is optionally available on certain models. Efficiency is surely aided by a low curb weight of under 2,900 pounds, made possible through the use of high-strength chassis stampings.