The first thing Consumer Reports emphasized in the new video review of the redesigned 2014 Toyota Corolla was its updated styling. In their vision, it’s a massive improvement and a big bump up in modernity over the outgoing model that goes well with the improved road manners that were observed in the tests.

Extra points were also awarded for its new CVT gearbox which helps improve economy, though it’s clearly not going to be the transmission of choice for the small percentage of Corolla buyers who also want to enjoy the experience of driving – there’s a six-speed manual on offer too, which can be had in S Plus trim that comes with stiffer suspension, sportier exterior styling and bigger rims.

One area prospective buyers of this model should be aware of is the fact that the car did not get the maximum safety rating from the IIHS, failing to impress in the small overlap test. On the other hand, across the pond, Euro NCAP rated it as one of the safest of the batch they most recently tested

By Andrei Nedelea

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