2003 Toyota Corolla LE review from North America

Weatherstripping around driver's door starting to wear from entry and exit...no way to avoid rubbing against it! Headlights could be better, but re-aiming them should help.

This is, without question, the finest small car on the market and arguably one of the world's finest cars, period. Fit and finish on this California-built car are up to Lexus standards. Even the interior oozes quality, with a cavernous back seat to boot. The new-for-2003 version doesn't leave you feeling like you've just bought a rental car. In fact, it looks and drives much like my dad's 2000 Avalon. Viewed head-on, it's a dead ringer for an Avalon. Those looking for a seat-of-your-pants driving experience are better off looking at a Focus SVT, Jetta or Neon R/T. As nice as this car is, the driving experience is a bit sterile, substituting quick reflexes for a more neutral, user-friendly feel. The Chrysler K-car-style rear axle beam certainly doesn't cry "performance." But for longevity, quality and resale value, the Corolla simply cannot be beat.