The Toyota Corolla has been a global automotive icon for decades, and the 2015 Toyota Corolla continues this legacy by offering exceptional value, fuel efficiency, and reliability. With over 40 million units sold worldwide since its inception in 1966, the Corolla isn’t just a car; it’s a testament to enduring quality and consumer trust. The 2015 model, part of the eleventh generation introduced in 2014, builds on this success, offering more room, enhanced features, and even sportier driving dynamics.
The 2015 auto Toyota Corolla stands out in the crowded compact sedan segment thanks to its focus on passenger comfort and fuel economy. One of the most impressive aspects of the 2015 Corolla is its class-leading rear legroom. Passengers in the back will appreciate a generous 41.4 inches of leg space, rivaling that of many larger sedans. This spaciousness, combined with a flatter rear floor design, ensures that even middle-seat passengers can ride comfortably on longer journeys. The interior design itself has been refined to offer a more premium feel, making the Corolla a surprisingly upscale option in its class.
Fuel efficiency is another key highlight of the 2015 Toyota Corolla. The Corolla LE Eco model, in particular, achieves an outstanding EPA-estimated 42 MPG on the highway when equipped with the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Other Corolla models with the CVT also boast impressive figures, ranging from 37 to 40 MPG. This remarkable fuel economy is packaged in a vehicle that also exhibits a stylish and modern design. The 2015 Corolla adopts design cues from the larger Toyota Camry and Avalon, featuring sculpted lines and a more assertive stance, making it the most visually appealing Corolla to date.
For the 2015 model year, Toyota has further enhanced the Corolla’s appeal by adding more standard features across the LE, S, and LE Eco trims. The introduction of the Premium trim level adds even more value. Corolla Premium models come equipped with desirable features like a power moonroof, Smart Key System for keyless entry and ignition, and the Entune™ Premium Audio system. This multimedia bundle includes navigation and the Toyota App Suite, keeping drivers connected and entertained. Furthermore, all LE, S, and LE Eco models now include a rear seat armrest with integrated cupholders, adding convenience for rear passengers. The base Corolla L model continues to offer a choice of a 6-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission, catering to different driver preferences.
Achieving 40+ MPG Without Compromise in the 2015 Corolla LE Eco
For drivers prioritizing fuel efficiency without sacrificing comfort or features, the 2015 Toyota Corolla LE Eco CVT is an exceptional choice. This model is specifically engineered to achieve over 40 MPG, utilizing a combination of advanced powertrain technology and aerodynamic enhancements.
The Corolla LE Eco features a unique version of Toyota’s 1.8-liter engine, incorporating Valvematic technology. This system provides a wider range of continuous variable valve timing compared to the Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) found in the standard Corolla engine. Interestingly, the LE Eco engine also produces slightly more power, delivering 140 horsepower compared to the 132 horsepower in other Corolla models.
Toyota has implemented intelligent features to maximize fuel economy in the Corolla LE Eco. In ECO driving mode, the system reduces power consumption by the air conditioning compressor, while automatically switching to recirculation mode to maintain cabin cooling efficiency. The accelerator pedal response is also adjusted in ECO mode to promote smoother driving and limit aggressive acceleration from a standstill, both contributing to fuel savings. Despite these fuel-saving measures, the ECO mode doesn’t hinder performance when needed. When the accelerator is pressed beyond 50 percent throttle, for situations like merging onto a highway, the engine responds just as it does in Normal mode, ensuring adequate power is readily available.
Aerodynamics play a crucial role in the Corolla LE Eco’s fuel efficiency. Underbody covers and a color-keyed rear spoiler reduce air drag, achieving a drag coefficient of just 0.28, compared to 0.29 and 0.30 for other Corolla models. These underbody panels are strategically placed beneath the bumper fascia, engine, front and rear floor, and fuel tank to manage airflow and minimize resistance. Notably, the sporty Corolla S model also benefits from these aerodynamic underbody panels.
The Corolla LE Eco further reduces friction with low rolling resistance 195/65R15 tires. Optional 16-inch aerodynamic alloy wheels, which add a touch of sporty styling, are paired with 205/55R16 tires. The standard Corolla LE also features 16-inch alloy wheels with the same tire size.
Despite its focus on fuel economy, the 2015 Toyota Corolla LE Eco doesn’t compromise on comfort and convenience. Standard features include automatic climate control, the Entune audio system with a multimedia bundle, a 6.1-inch display screen with six speakers, a rear backup camera with projected path guidelines for easier parking, and a tilt/telescopic steering wheel with Bluetooth® hands-free phone controls. Moving up to the Plus and Premium trims adds even more luxurious amenities, with the Premium trim offering SofTex®-trimmed heated front seats and an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat.
The Smart CVTi-S Transmission in the 2015 Corolla
A significant contributor to the fuel efficiency of the 2015 Corolla LE, S, and LE Eco models is the available CVTi-S – Continuously Variable Transmission with intelligence and Shift capability. The “S” designation is key, differentiating it from conventional CVTs. While CVTs are known for their fuel economy and smooth operation, some drivers find the “rubber band” feel of traditional CVTs, where the engine speed doesn’t always directly correspond to acceleration, less engaging. Toyota addressed this by engineering the CVTi-S to retain the benefits of a CVT while providing a more familiar and responsive driving experience.
The CVTi-S incorporates simulated stepped shift points during acceleration and deceleration, mimicking the feel of a traditional automatic transmission with distinct gear changes. This design provides a sense of positive shift engagement that many drivers prefer. In the Corolla S trim, drivers can even manually control up to seven shift points using the shift lever or steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
The CVTi-S transmission features a wide gear ratio range from 2.480 (low) to 0.396 (high), paired with a 4.761 final drive ratio. This wide range contributes to a balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and quiet operation across various driving conditions. To ensure smooth operation even in cold weather, a transmission fluid warmer is included to quickly bring the fluid to its optimal temperature.
Quiet and Refined Ride in the 2015 Corolla
The 2015 Toyota Corolla prioritizes cabin quietness, enhancing the overall driving experience. The unibody construction utilizes high-tensile strength steel, creating a rigid platform that contributes to both responsive handling and a smooth ride. This robust structure allows for optimized suspension tuning, resulting in a more engaging and dynamic driving experience.
To minimize external noise intrusion, the Corolla incorporates an acoustic glass windshield, enhanced floor carpet insulation, an instrument panel seal between the cowl and windshield, fender insulators, and an inner dash silencer pad. These measures effectively block out road noise and wind noise, creating a more serene cabin environment.
A more rigid steering structure enhances steering feel and responsiveness through the electric power-assist steering system. By eliminating a traditional hydraulic power steering system, the electric system reduces weight and parasitic loss, further contributing to fuel efficiency. Additionally, electric power steering eliminates the need for messy steering fluid maintenance.
The high-strength construction of the 2015 Corolla also contributes to excellent collision performance. Despite its robust build, all 2015 Corolla grades weigh less than 2,900 pounds. The benefits of the high-strength structure extend to the suspension system, including a more rigid control arm design in the MacPherson strut front suspension. In the rear, the stronger body allows for a diagonal attachment of the torsion beam bushings, improving handling, grip, and control compared to the previous generation model’s straight attachment. The Corolla’s spring rates are tuned for ride comfort, while the Corolla S receives unique sport-tuned suspension.
The Sporty 2015 Corolla S
The enhanced structural rigidity of the Corolla provides an ideal foundation for the 2015 Corolla S, which injects a dose of sportiness into the lineup. The Corolla S features sport-tuned suspension, 16-inch wheels with 205/55R16 tires, and unique springs, dampers, and bushings. For even greater performance, optional 17-inch alloy wheels with 215/45R17 tires and four-wheel disc brakes are available.
Driving enthusiasts will appreciate the availability of a 6-speed manual transmission in the Corolla S. When equipped with the CVTi-S, the Corolla S gains a Sport driving mode and steering wheel paddle shifters for manual gear selection through the transmission’s seven simulated gear ratios. The console shifter also allows for manual upshifts and downshifts in the M position. Exclusive to the Corolla S, a 3.5-inch TFT multi-information display in the instrument cluster shows M mode activity, including the selected gear, along with other vehicle information.
Even when not shifted manually, the Corolla S in Sport mode delivers a more engaging driving experience by altering shift points and providing a more responsive feel through the electric power steering programming. Visually, the Corolla S distinguishes itself with a piano-black grille, integrated rear spoiler, fog lights, and a chrome-tipped tailpipe. The Corolla S is exclusively available in the vibrant Blue Crush Metallic exterior color. Inside, bolstered sport seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel complete the sporty ambiance.
Unmatched Value Across 2015 Corolla Trims
Shopping for a 2015 Toyota Corolla is straightforward, with a range of trims designed to suit various needs and budgets. The base Corolla L trim offers Toyota’s renowned reliability at an accessible price point. Even in its base form, the Corolla L is well-equipped, featuring standard air conditioning with a dust and pollen filter, USB and iPod® connectivity, Bluetooth® for hands-free phone and audio streaming, a 60/40 split fold-down rear seat, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, power windows and door locks, and an overhead console with map light. Buyers simply choose between the 6-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission and select their preferred color.
The popular Corolla LE trim builds upon the L trim with added amenities, including automatic climate control, cruise control, upgraded interior trim, a 3-spoke steering wheel, a multi-function in-key remote, an integrated backup camera with projected path guidelines, color-keyed heated power outside mirrors, and the Entune audio system with a multimedia bundle including a 6.1-inch display screen and six speakers. The LE Plus trim adds fog lights and 16-inch alloy wheels, while the LE Premium trim, mirroring the LE Eco Premium, includes SofTex®-trimmed heated front seats with an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat.
2015 Corolla: A Safety Leader
Safety is paramount in all Toyota vehicles, and the 2015 Toyota Corolla is no exception, having earned a NHTSA 5-star safety rating in 2014. Like all Toyota models, the 2015 Corolla is equipped with the Star Safety System™, which includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), and Brake Assist. It also features Smart Stop Technology brake-override system and an electronic tire pressure monitoring system as standard.
Peace of Mind with Toyota Warranty and Care
The 2015 Corolla is backed by Toyota’s comprehensive warranty coverage, including a 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty covering all components except normal wear and maintenance items. Powertrain components are covered for 60 months or 60,000 miles, and corrosion protection is provided for 60 months with no mileage limitation. Adding further value, the 2015 Corolla comes standard with Toyota Care, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, providing added peace of mind to owners. The 2015 auto Toyota Corolla is a smart choice for those seeking a reliable, fuel-efficient, and feature-rich compact car that delivers exceptional value and lasting quality.
