When it comes to deciding what makes a car the “best,” there are a lot of aspects to look into it. Add the additional constraint that the vehicle has to be affordable, and you tend to juggle between what features are necessities and what features can be sacrificed. One thing is for sure; the Toyota Corolla manages to be among the top spots on every website year after year, whether it be for the newest model or a used one. What is it about the Toyota Corolla that makes it such a good, affordable sedan?

The Toyota Corolla is truly reliable

To start, the Toyota Corolla has a lot of history, and for the most part that history is pretty positive. This spunky sedan has been known to go mile after mile, very capable of dominating 200,000 miles or more without compromising safety. There haven’t been a concerning number of recalls that have left owners second-guessing their purchases, and Toyota is quick to respond to potential issues to keep customers happy.

You can buy a used Toyota Corolla for a bargain, but you can also buy one brand new without blowing your budget. Base model prices for the Corolla start at $19,600 and go as high as $25,550 for the highest trim level. It’s an excellent option for a daily driver, first car, or a car that you can put miles on without having to worry about a dramatic amount of depreciation.

A surprising amount to offer

Just because the Toyota Corolla isn’t the most expensive sedan on the market doesn’t mean it lacks options. The highest trim level, which is still incredibly affordable, is even endowed with the safety features you’re probably looking for. The newest generation features the most aggressive styling yet, and the addition of a hatchback body type among the options makes this car pretty cool. There is also a hybrid option to get even better fuel economy than the standard 33mpg, increasing to as much as 48mpg.

The Toyota Corolla might not be the most exciting car to drive, but it wasn’t designed to have a powerful engine like a sports car anyways. The cabin is comfortable and the seats are large enough to comfortable fit the average adult. The infotainment system and controls are easy to adjust and very user friendly, leaving owners with an overall positive experience.

If there is one thing for sure, it’s that the Toyota Corolla has held its place at the top ranking of the charts year after year. It’s affordable, it’s reliable, it’s safe, and it has a surprising amount of features. Whether you are a new driver, first-time car owner, or a long-distance commuter, the Corolla is genuinely a great option that won’t break the bank.