2009 Toyota Corolla: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2009 Toyota Corolla is a full redesign and the first model year of its 10th generation. Its biggest change is an all-new, wider platform with a roomier cabin, new suspension and new four-cylinder engines.
About the 2009 Toyota Corolla
10th generation (2009-2013), first model year and full redesign
Toyota positioned the Corolla as a dependable, fuel-efficient compact sedan for commuting and everyday family use. Its core strengths were straightforward controls, a comfortable ride, practical seating and cargo space, and Toyota's reputation for durability. The redesign added cabin room and more modern features without turning the Corolla into an aggressively styled or highly performance-focused car, separating it from sportier rivals through ease of use and low-drama daily transportation.
The five-grade lineup ranged from the economy-focused Base and mainstream LE to the comfort-focused XLE, appearance-focused S and performance-focused XRS. The XLE added remote keyless entry and an upgraded driver display, while the S used fog lamps and lower-body extensions without adding horsepower. The XRS stood apart with a 158-hp 2.4-liter engine, sport-tuned suspension, stability and traction control, and four-wheel disc brakes.
What changed, by category
2009 Toyota Corolla specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 1.8 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.8 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.8 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.8 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 26 mpg | 27 mpg | 27 mpg | 22 mpg | 26 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 35 mpg | 35 mpg | 35 mpg | 30 mpg | 35 mpg |
| Horsepower | 132 hp | 132 hp | 132 hp | 158 hp | 132 hp |
| Torque | 128 lb-ft | 128 lb-ft | 128 lb-ft | 162 lb-ft | 128 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 1500 lb | 1500 lb | 1500 lb | 1500 lb | 1500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 16.6 cu-ft | 16.6 cu-ft | 16.6 cu-ft | 16.6 cu-ft | 16.6 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 36.3 in | 36.3 in | 36.3 in | 36.3 in | 36.3 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||||
| Cruise Control | |||||
| Stability Control | |||||
| Alloy Wheels | |||||
| Fog Lights | |||||
| Heated Mirrors | |||||
| Power Moonroof | |||||
| Rear Spoiler | |||||
| Navigation System | |||||
| Premium Audio | |||||
| Satellite Radio | |||||
| Chrome Interior Trim | |||||
| Heated Front Seats | |||||
| Leather Seats | |||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||||
| Power Locks | |||||
| Power Windows | |||||
| Remote Start | |||||
| Remote Keyless Entry | |||||
| Wood Interior Trim | |||||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2009 Toyota Corolla fully redesigned?
Yes. The 2009 Toyota Corolla began the 10th generation with a wider body, roomier cabin, new chassis, new suspension, redesigned interior and exterior, and new four-cylinder engines.
What engines are in the 2009 Toyota Corolla?
Most 2009 Corolla trims use a 132-hp 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine. The XRS is the exception, with a 158-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine.
How are the 2009 Corolla S and XRS different?
The 2009 Corolla S is mainly a sport-appearance trim and uses the same 132-hp 1.8-liter engine as most of the lineup. The XRS is the performance model, with a 158-hp 2.4-liter engine, sport-tuned suspension and steering, stability and traction control, and four-wheel disc brakes.
Which trim levels does the 2009 Toyota Corolla have?
The 2009 Toyota Corolla lineup has five grades: Base, LE, S, XLE and XRS. The LE focuses on everyday convenience, the XLE on comfort, the S on sporty looks and the XRS on stronger performance.
Is the 2009 Toyota Corolla roomier than the 2008 model?
Yes. The 2009 redesign brought a wider body, greater passenger width and a roomier cabin than the prior generation.