2017 Toyota Corolla iM review

1. Flexible cargo capacity 

If you like the idea of a liftgate — and the ability to load things up to the roof — but don't want a full-fledged SUV, the 2017 Toyota Corolla iM is a great option. With the rear seats up, the compact hatch has 20.8 cu-ft of cargo volume, which is larger than most compact sedans. If you need more space, you can drop the rear seats completely or take advantage of the 60/40 split-fold seats to hold a rear seat passenger or two as well as cargo. 

2. Fuel sipper 

The 2017 Toyota Corolla iM has a 137-hp, 1.8L four-cylinder engine with either an automatic or manual transmission. This is a decent amount of power for a vehicle of this size, but if you're concerned about pain at the pump, you'll be delighted to know that the iM gets an EPA-estimated 30 mpg or 31 mpg in combined driving, depending on which transmission you get.

What's more, if you do a lot of highway driving, EPA estimates you'll see 35+ mpg on both vehicles. 

3. Unexpected details 

The 2017 Toyota Corolla iM is an entry-level, economy-class car with a mono-spec interior. But even so, it has a high level of standard amenities you might not expect at this level. Things like an acoustic layer windshield help keep the cabin quiet, and heated power-folding side mirrors are an added benefit on cold winter mornings. Other high-level amenities include auto on/off lights, automatic high beams, dual automatic climate control, leather-wrapped steering wheel, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, and cruise control. 

4. Very parkable 

The 2017 Toyota Corolla iM is just 170.5 inches long. This, along with a good turning radius, makes it easy to parallel park on tight city streets, but it will also fit in compact parking lots and garages. As a bonus, there is a standard rearview camera, which is helpful if you like to back into your parking spaces.  

5. Road-trip worthy 

If you take regular road trips, you'll be looking for comfy seats and the ability to play your own tunes. Thankfully, the 2017 Toyota Corolla fits the bill. Though this is pre-Apple CarPlay^® and Android Auto^™ integration, you'll be able to stream audio from your phone via Bluetooth^® or wired-in connection. Add that to the comfortable cloth seats, flexible cargo space, and fuel-sipping powertrain, and all you have to do is buckle up and go.