2002 Toyota Corolla T Spirit 5 door review from UK and Ireland

Interior trim problems.

Beware of Creeks and rattles from roof lining and sunroof, still not rectified. Problem is caused by aerial and interior light cables being tacked to the lining, plus noise from plastic ribbing used to support the roof lining which are positioned over each door and at the rear quarters of the vehicle. As roof heats up in the sun the problem disappears returning when cold. Roof lining will have to be removed by dealer for investigation.

Rear view mirror wobbles.

Engine idles at 575 RPM a little low and lumpy no cure to date.

Radio CD facia distorts, mod available.

You seem to get a lot of brake dust on the front and rear wheels after only 30 miles, why?

Ride a little on the firm side especially on uneven country roads which cause a lot of jitter. Handles Pot holes well.

Handling very good and reassuring into bends.

Brakes exceptional.

Interior quality good except for minor

rattles and creeks. This really needs addressing if Toyota are to claim that the car is up to the quality of German rivals.

Performance from 1.6 litre VVTi engine good across the rev band although you need to boot it to get it going.

Overall appearance different, has seemed to grow on me.

Car nice height to get in and out of.

You can feel a little claustrophobic in the car as side windows are slightly on the small side and mounted high. Your 3 year old child may not be able to see out of the rear side windows even in a car seat, check first. The dash is rather high and there is plenty of it.

Boot loading easy with very good amount of useable space without intrusion from rear suspension.

Front and rear leg room very good. Seating firm, but supportive.

Doors have that solid clunk when shut that defines that quality feel found on VW, Audi etc.

Check out the fancy Lexus type instrument display that's permanently lit, but don't forget to turn your head lights on at night...

Overall a more exciting model than the old corolla and more different than a Ford Focus or VW Golf, but with traits from both. Go for the rear spoiler which makes it look sporty.

Hopefully reliability will be second to none? Hope so.

Buy one.