The 2017 Toyota Corolla Im arrived as a compelling option for drivers seeking a versatile, fun-to-drive hatchback with renowned Toyota dependability. Building on the legacy of the Corolla nameplate, the iM offered a unique blend of sporty styling, practical functionality, and advanced safety features, all wrapped in an affordable package. For those in the market for a compact car that could handle daily commutes and weekend adventures alike, the 2017 Corolla iM presented a strong case.
The Corolla iM, inheriting its spirit from the Scion iM, seamlessly integrated into the Toyota family, bringing with it a youthful energy and hatchback practicality to the Corolla lineup. This model year marked a continuation of its mission to provide a high-content, high-style, and high-MPG vehicle without breaking the bank. Let’s delve into what made the 2017 Toyota Corolla iM a standout choice in the competitive compact hatchback segment.
Embracing Hatchback Freedom and Functionality
The core appeal of the 2017 Corolla iM lay in its hatchback design. This body style inherently offered enhanced cargo space and versatility compared to traditional sedans. Whether it was hauling groceries, sports equipment, or luggage for a weekend getaway, the iM was designed to accommodate. The spacious cabin further amplified this practicality, ensuring comfortable seating for passengers without compromising cargo capacity.
The design wasn’t just about utility; the Corolla iM also sported a distinct and sporty aesthetic. Its bold front fascia, coupled with sleek lines and standard 17-inch alloy wheels, gave it a youthful and dynamic presence on the road. This visual appeal broadened its attraction, particularly to younger buyers and those seeking a car that reflected an active lifestyle.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency: The Sweet Spot
Under the hood, the 2017 Toyota Corolla iM featured a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower. This engine incorporated Valvematic continuously variable valve timing technology, optimizing both power delivery and fuel efficiency. The result was a responsive driving experience in various conditions, from city streets to highway cruising.
Fuel economy was a significant advantage for the Corolla iM. The Continuously Variable Transmission with intelligent shift (CVTi-S) model achieved an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city, 36 mpg highway, and 31 mpg combined. The six-speed manual transmission variant offered a still-respectable 27 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, and 30 mpg combined. These figures highlighted the iM’s ability to balance enjoyable performance with frugal fuel consumption, a crucial factor for budget-conscious buyers and daily drivers. Both manual and automatic versions also came equipped with Hill Start Assist Control (HAC), adding confidence and convenience when starting on inclines.
Toyota Safety Sense™ C: Standard Safety for Peace of Mind
In 2017, Toyota made significant strides in democratizing advanced safety technologies, and the Corolla iM was a prime beneficiary. It came standard with Toyota Safety Sense™ C (TSS-C), a suite of active safety features designed to mitigate or prevent collisions. TSS-C included:
- Pre-Collision System: Utilizing a camera and laser beam to detect preceding vehicles, this system could warn the driver of a potential frontal collision and even automatically apply the brakes to lessen impact force or avoid the collision altogether.
- Lane Departure Alert: This feature helped drivers stay within their lane by providing an audible and visual alert if the vehicle began to drift out of its lane without signaling.
- Automatic High Beams: Enhancing nighttime visibility, Automatic High Beams intelligently switched between high and low beams based on the presence of other vehicles, ensuring optimal illumination without blinding other drivers.
Beyond TSS-C, the 2017 Corolla iM was equipped with eight standard airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag and a front passenger seat cushion airbag, further underscoring Toyota’s commitment to safety.
Interior Comfort and Technology
The interior of the 2017 Corolla iM was designed to be both comfortable and tech-savvy. The cabin was described as roomy and refined, with attention paid to material quality and ergonomic design. Standard features included Bluetooth connectivity and Entune™ Audio, providing essential infotainment features for modern drivers.
For those desiring more advanced technology, higher trims offered Entune Audio Plus with Connected Navigation (Scout® GPS Link App) or Entune Premium Audio with Integrated Navigation and App Suite, both featuring a user-friendly 7-inch touchscreen. These options catered to drivers who valued seamless smartphone integration and advanced navigation capabilities.
Value Proposition: Affordable Fun and Reliability
The 2017 Toyota Corolla iM was strategically positioned as an excellent value proposition in the compact hatchback market. With a starting MSRP of $18,750 for the six-speed manual and $19,490 for the CVTi-S automatic, it offered a compelling combination of features, performance, safety, and Toyota’s renowned reliability at an accessible price point.
For buyers seeking a practical, stylish, and well-equipped hatchback that wouldn’t break the bank, the 2017 Toyota Corolla iM presented a compelling choice. It successfully blended the versatility of a hatchback with the dependability and value that the Corolla name was known for, making it a smart option for a wide range of drivers.
