The 2013 Toyota Corolla continues its legacy as a leader in the compact car segment, offering a blend of reliability, fuel efficiency, and now, enhanced premium features. For the 2013 model year, Toyota has elevated the Corolla LE and S grades with new comfort amenities and sophisticated technology, making it an even more compelling choice for discerning drivers.
Enhanced Audio and Connectivity
A significant upgrade for the 2013 Toyota Corolla LE and S models is the introduction of a standard Display Audio system. This system centers around a user-friendly 6.1-inch touch screen, serving as the hub for the AM/FM/CD player, six-speaker audio system, and seamless integration for personal devices. Connectivity is a key focus, with a USB port providing iPod® integration and Bluetooth® wireless technology enabling hands-free phone calls, wireless music streaming, and convenient phonebook access. The system also includes an auxiliary input jack for broader device compatibility. To ensure an optimal listening experience regardless of driving conditions, automatic sound leveling dynamically adjusts audio volume in response to changes in ambient noise. For added convenience, both the LE and S grades feature integrated audio control switches directly on the steering wheel, allowing drivers to manage their entertainment without taking their hands off the wheel.
Premium Packages: Elevating Comfort and Style
Responding to the growing demand for premium features in compact cars, the 2013 Toyota Corolla LE and S models offer a range of Premium Packages designed to enhance comfort, style, and technology.
For the sporty Corolla S grade, the Premium Package introduces a bolder stance and enhanced aesthetics with striking 17-inch, 5-spoke alloy wheels paired with 205/55R17 tires. This package also includes a power tilt/slide moonroof with a sliding sunshade, bringing an open and airy feel to the cabin.
The Premium Interior Package for the Corolla S focuses on elevating the interior ambiance and convenience. It adds automatic climate control for maintaining consistent cabin temperature, multi-reflector halogen headlights with black sport trim and an automatic on/off feature for enhanced visibility and a modern look, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated audio controls for a touch of luxury and enhanced driver engagement.
For the ultimate in features, the Corolla S offers the Premium Complete Package. This comprehensive package combines the features of the Premium and Premium Interior Packages and further elevates the technology offering with the Display Audio with Navigation and Entune™ multimedia system. This system expands upon the standard audio system, adding integrated navigation, SiriusXM Radio with a 90-day trial, HD Radio with iTunes® Tagging, advanced voice recognition, and access to Toyota’s Entune™ apps suite.
The Corolla LE, already known for its well-equipped nature, also benefits from new Premium Packages for 2013. Building upon the existing optional Premium Package (which includes 16-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps, and a moonroof), the LE now offers the Premium Interior Package, mirroring the features of the S Premium Interior Package but adding an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat for personalized comfort.
The Premium Complete Package for the Corolla LE mirrors the S grade offering, providing the Display Audio with Navigation and Entune™ system, but tailored to the LE’s specifications with 16-inch alloy wheels and 205/55R16 tires.
Toyota Entune™: Connected Services at Your Fingertips
The 2013 Toyota Corolla Premium Complete Packages feature Toyota Entune™, a suite of connected services designed to enhance the driving experience. Entune™ provides access to a range of popular mobile applications and data services, offered with a complimentary three-year subscription. By connecting a smartphone via Bluetooth® or USB, drivers can utilize Entune™ features through the vehicle’s controls or voice recognition.
Entune™ provides access to services like Bing™ search and Pandora® internet radio, along with real-time information including traffic updates, weather forecasts, fuel prices, sports scores, and stock market updates. A selection of complimentary apps, such as iHeartRadio, MovieTickets.com, and OpenTable®, further expands the functionality of the system. (For complete details and compatibility information, visit toyota.com/entune).
Performance and Fuel Efficiency
Under the hood, the 2013 Toyota Corolla maintains its reputation for efficient and reliable performance. All models are powered by a responsive 1.8-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine, delivering 132 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 128 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm. Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) optimizes valve timing for both intake and exhaust, contributing to both performance and fuel economy.
The engine is paired with either a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic Electronically Controlled Transmission (ECT), depending on the trim level. The base Corolla L and sporty S grades offer both transmission choices, while the LE model comes standard with the automatic. The four-speed automatic transmission incorporates a flex lockup torque converter for enhanced fuel efficiency and uphill/downhill shift control for smooth performance in varying terrains. For drivers seeking a more engaging experience, the automatic transmission allows for manual shifting by moving the shift lever to the “S” position and using the push-forward/pull-back action for gear changes, with gear selection indicated in the instrument cluster.
The 2013 Toyota Corolla achieves impressive EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings, with 27 mpg city and 34 mpg highway for the five-speed manual transmission, and 26 mpg city and 34 mpg highway for the four-speed automatic transmission, making it an economical choice for daily driving.
Smooth Handling and Comfortable Ride
The 2013 Corolla prioritizes a comfortable and composed ride, built upon a robust body structure utilizing high-tensile strength steel, gussets, and cross members for strength, rigidity, and lightweight construction. The front suspension features a MacPherson strut design with a stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employs a torsion beam setup with coil-over shocks, optimizing both handling and ride comfort while maximizing interior space.
Electric power-assist steering contributes to both fuel efficiency and driving ease. The system adjusts steering assistance based on engine RPM and vehicle speed, providing light steering effort at low speeds for parking and maneuvering, and more substantial feedback at higher speeds for confident highway driving. The electric system also eliminates the need for hydraulic oil, making it more environmentally friendly.
Comprehensive Safety Features
Safety is a paramount concern in the 2013 Toyota Corolla, which comes standard with the Toyota Star Safety System™. This comprehensive suite of safety technologies includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), and Brake Assist. Smart Stop Technology brake-override system is also standard.
The Corolla’s body structure is engineered to effectively absorb and distribute impact energy throughout the vehicle, featuring front and rear crumple zones. Strengthened door beltline reinforcements further enhance side-impact protection. A direct tire pressure monitoring system is standard on all models.
Occupant protection is further enhanced by six standard airbags, including advanced front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, and front and rear side-curtain airbags. Front seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters help minimize occupant movement in a collision, and active headrests in the front seats are designed to reduce whiplash in rear-end collisions.
Comfort and Convenience as Standard
The 2013 Corolla maintains its reputation for providing exceptional value with a generous list of standard features across all trim levels. All models include an all-weather package for added practicality.
The base Corolla L grade includes 15-inch steel wheels with full wheel covers, color-keyed exterior trim, power windows and locks, remote keyless entry, air conditioning, and an AM/FM/CD audio system with MP3/WMA playback and an auxiliary audio jack.
Building upon the L grade, the popular Corolla LE adds variable intermittent windshield wipers, heated power outside mirrors, cruise control, and metallic accents on the tilt/telescopic steering wheel.
The sporty Corolla S grade distinguishes itself with exclusive front sport seats, metallic-style interior trim, and unique sport instrumentation.
Refined Exterior and Interior Design
The 2013 Corolla presents a familiar yet refined exterior design. The Corolla S grade projects a sportier image with 16-inch alloy wheels, multi-reflector halogen headlamps with black housings, and a standard body kit including spoilers, rocker panels, and a chrome-tipped exhaust.
Inside, the Corolla offers a comfortable and functional cabin designed for everyday usability. The driving position and front seats are designed to accommodate a wide range of body types, and a tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel is standard. The rear seat provides ample space for three adults, and a nearly flat rear floor enhances comfort for the middle passenger. Thoughtful storage solutions are located throughout the cabin, including center console pockets, a dual glove box, and door pockets with bottle holders.
Toyota Care Warranty and Maintenance
The 2013 Toyota Corolla is backed by Toyota’s comprehensive warranty, including a 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty and a 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Additionally, the Corolla benefits from the Toyota Care complimentary maintenance plan, covering normal factory scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles, further enhancing the value and ownership experience of the 2013 Toyota Corolla.
