Slipping a slightly modified Celica GT-S engine under the hood of the capable Corolla sedan might seem like a good idea at first, but this is not one of my favorite powertrains. As in the Celica, the Matrix XRS, and the Pontiac Vibe GT, you have to really rev the engine to access the extra oomph, and the motor objects to the abuse. Plus, the six-speed manual's gates are tight, the clutch a little tricky at launch, and when reverse is engaged it beeps to make sure the driver knows the Corolla XRS is going to back up and not move forward. In these times of record gas prices, a premium fuel requirement is a significant turn-off. A supercharged version of the standard powerplant seems like a much better idea for a performance-tuned Corolla than this solution.

Except for the engine, the rest of the car is pleasing. Handling, brakes, and steering are responsive, if not engaging. Comfort for taller people is elusive due to the lack of seat track travel, but the seats themselves are firm and supportive and there's adequate space in the back for adults. The trunk is also impressively sized. What impresses about the Corolla XRS is the build quality and the materials. From the way the door thunks solidly shut to the appearance of the gauges, the Corolla looks and feels much better than the econocar class average. Plus, it's an easy car to use, with most of the controls placed and labeled logically.

Despite the fundamentally sound design, however, the Toyota Corolla XRS is tough to recommend to someone looking for a fun-to-drive small sedan. Not when the Mazda 3s and Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart are available at about the same price. - Christian J. Wardlaw