Toyota Corolla: A History of the Best-Selling Car of All Time

by Gabrielle DeSantis

The Toyota Corolla has been around for more than 50 years and today is in its 12th generation. Debuting in 1966, it became a global best-seller by 1974. It became the best-selling nameplate in June 1997. By 2000, the Corolla made up 20 percent of Toyota’s worldwide sales. More than 46 million Toyota Corolla vehicles have been sold, according to Autoevolution.

Toyota Corolla through the decades

RELATED: Both 2021 Toyota Corolla Models Are Good for Teenagers

1960s

The first-generation Toyota Corolla arrived in 1966, GarageDreams reports. It was designed to add a touch of luxury to the family car and carry a more powerful engine. First sold as a two-door, it soon also came as a four-door sedan and a station wagon. In addition to packing a more powerful engine, it had a two-speed automatic, a four-speed manual, or a fully synchronized four-speed manual transmission. Its modern updates included bucket seats, a radio, a heater, armrests, and a center console. Designed for Japanese and export markets, the Corolla first sold stateside in 1968.

1970s

The second generation appeared in 1970. It had a larger body with more comfort and better handling and performance. Toyota added a two-door coupe to the existing body styles, along with a five-speed transmission. Modern features included headrests, air conditioning, an AM/FM stereo, and windshield washers. The Corolla Levin high-performance model debuted in 1972.

In 1974, the third generation focused on low emissions and improvements in comfort, safety, and refinement. The Corolla remained an affordable car, although it had increasing competition. New emissions standards forced Toyota to make changes to the car’s multiple engine options. With increased interest in safety, the Corolla now had front and back crumple zones plus an impact-absorbing body. It also featured thicker doors and three-point retractor seat belts.

1979 brought the fourth-generation Corolla. It was more luxurious but more fuel-efficient.

1980s

Then, in 1982, Toyota added a quieter, more aerodynamic optional diesel engine.

With the fifth generation’s 1983 debut, Toyota aimed to attract younger buyers. Front-wheel drive was now an option. The engines offered more power and better fuel efficiency. The four- and five-speed stick shifts remained, but three- and four-speed automatic transmissions became available. The various body styles included a two- or three-door coupe, a three-door hatchback, a four-door sedan, and a five-door liftback.

The sixth-generation Corolla appeared for the 1987 model year. Design changes this time focused on “performance, quality, and style,” GarageDreams reports. Toyota discontinued the rear-wheel drivetrain and added a wider range of engine options. It also designed the body rounder and decreased noises, though engine sounds became louder.

1990s

The seventh generation came with the 1992 model. It was bigger, faster, and safer. Galvanized steel made up more of the body shell. Fuel efficiency improved. The larger size also provided more space for passengers and cargo.

1995 saw the arrival of the eighth-generation Toyota Corolla. It saw modifications for different markets. The new generation didn’t arrive in North America and Europe until 1997. Engine options were more powerful and more fuel-efficient. There were several body styles in Europe and Japan, but only the sedan was sold in North America. Modern features included twin airbags, remote locking, air conditioning, a CD player, and an electric sunroof.

2000s

With the arrival of the ninth generation in 2000, Toyota’s focus shifted primarily to the European market, although sales continued worldwide. This model made it to North America in 2003. Nine engines were available for different markets. Transmission options included a four-speed automatic, a five- or six-speed manual, and a five-speed multimode manual transmission. Consumer Reports didn’t find this generation particularly fun to drive. Toyota had designed it for families but with style and youthfulness. Designers also borrowed features from Toyota’s Lexus brand to improve the Corolla’s interior.

The 11th generation debuted in 2006. It arrived in North America in 2008 for the 2009 model year. Some markets renamed the Corolla the Auris, which offered a hybrid powertrain option. Modern features included a backup camera, automatic climate control, and Bluetooth.

2010s

The 11th-gen Corolla arrived in 2012 and came to North America in 2014. It boasted an updated, more aggressive look and further improved fuel efficiency. A new hybrid powertrain also debuted.

The 12th and current generation appeared in 2018 and arrived in North America in 2020. It resembles the 11th generation but packs more powerful engine options, including a hybrid powertrain.

RELATED: The Toyota Corolla Is Cheaper and Better Today Than It Was 20 Years Ago

Though the Toyota Corolla might have a reputation for being a bit boring, the first and 12th generations carry their own coolness factors. There have also been special models, like the Corolla Levin, that have been exciting as well, Automobile Magazine reports.

But for many people, the Corolla’s predictability, reliability, and affordability are this compact car’s appeal. In fact, the 2021 model starts at only $20,025, Toyota‘s website shows. However, as with all vehicles, some model years are better than others. To avoid problems, steer clear of 2002, 2009, and 2014 Corolla models.

The Toyota Corolla’s declining sales

The Toyota Corolla continues to be a popular choice, but it has seen declining sales in recent years. Following growth between 2011 and 2015, sales in the United States have waned, GoodCarBadCar reports. Sales in Canada have followed a similar pattern, declining since 2017. These lower numbers are part of a larger trend where consumers are shifting to SUVs and trucks, leaving cars behind.

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Do I Need to Have My Car Serviced at the Dealership to Keep My Warranty?

by Gabrielle DeSantis

If you recently bought a new car or have a used one that’s under warranty, you could be worried about accidentally voiding it. There are some pretty clear stipulations as to what will void your car’s warranty, but is having it worked on by another shop one of them?

Taking your car to the dealership

Motor car on hydraulic lift repair workshop | Andrew Woodley/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

RELATED: Who Knew About the Jaguar Factory Warranty?

Some car owners prefer to take their cars to the dealership because they feel that they will get the best service and the best parts. And while that may or may not be true, the fact remains that dealership labor prices can be much higher than most independent shops. However, as long as you get keep your car maintained regularly, then it really doesn’t matter if you take it to a dealership or not, reports North Carolina Consumers Council.

Taking your car to an independent shop won’t void the warranty

A car goes in for repairs at a shop
Having a car warranty is helpful for repair costs and car safety | Bloomberg

RELATED: Common Things That Void Your Car’s Warranty

Independent shops, on the other hand, can provide the same services that the dealership shop does, but at a much lower rate. How well of a job they do can vary, so be sure to do your research before taking your car to any shop out of convenience. However, the good news is that your car’s warranty cannot be voided if another shop does the work, according to Autotrader.

But you’re not exactly in the clear when you take your car elsewhere, though. For example, if you have your car maintained regularly at an independent shop and they cause damage to a certain component, then the manufacturer could void your warranty and you’ll have to take it up with the shop instead.

That doesn’t necessarily mean that you need to go to the dealership every time, or at all, for your car’s maintenance. It mainly means that it’s a good idea to keep your receipts and keep a record of the services done. That way, the manufacturer, or the dealer, will know that you have been keeping up with the car’s maintenance per the warranty’s stipulations.

You can work on your yourself as well

A container with drained car oil after oil change pictured at the car service
A container with drained car oil after oil change pictured at the car service in Prague, Czech Republic on 31 January 2020. (Photo by Krystof Kriz/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

If you’re the type of person who likes to work on their car at home, then you can still do so if your car is still under warranty. According to the Federal Trade Commission, “the Magnusson-Moss Warranty Act makes it illegal for manufacturers or dealers to claim that your warranty is void simply because someone other than the dealer did the work.”

As always, if you do plan on working on and maintaining your car from the comfort of your own garage, be sure to keep a record of it and any receipts that you can in case you need warranty work done later.

Tips to keep your warranty valid

If you want to ensure that you get the most out of your warranty – and avoid it getting voided – then check out these tips from the FTC:

  • Read your warranty: The car that you bought should come with a warranty guide that’s separate from the owner’s manual. This booklet will have the warranty details and guidelines that you can follow.
  • Know your warranty period: Many drivers forget how long their warranty period is, so it’s a good idea to know when it expires. If you don’t know, then you can always call a dealer and have them look it up for you.
  • Service your car regularly: If you want to make sure that your car’s warranty stays intact, then it’s a good idea to keep your car maintained according to the schedule outlined in the owner’s manual.
  • Keep a record of all of your services and receipts: Just as we said before, keeping a record of the maintenance done and receipts for the parts can save you a hassle down the road in the event your warranty does get voided.

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Best New Cars Without CVT Transmissions

by Gabrielle DeSantis

CVT transmissions are controversial, splitting shoppers into two camps. Some think they’re the peak of efficiency and engineering. Others can’t move past the transmission’s reliability and performance issues. Finding new cars without CVT technology is a real challenge. Moreover, These few models still have a traditional automatic transmission with fixed gear ratios. That doesn’t mean sacrificing fuel efficiency. Each of these choices delivers competitive milage.

Mazda6

Consumer Reports rates highly and recommends the 2021 Mazda6. This midsize sedan offers a quiet and comfortable ride. The Mazda3 impressed reviewers with its expensive feel. The responsive six-speed automatic transmission under its hood is responsive and shifts right on time.

Its standard 187-hp engine goes from zero to 60 mph in 9.2 seconds. This isn’t a track-ready racer by any means, but its responsive handling makes it an easy daily driver. Its gas mileage is in line with its competitors at 28 miles per gallon combined.

Honda Odyssey

2021 Honda Odyssey

The 2021 Honda Odyssey is built with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This wider ratio range means the Odyssey delivers a smooth and quiet ride, even at highway speeds. Honda describes the Odyeesy’a acceleration as “exhilarating.” The paddle shifters in this model give drivers better brake responses while towing. These shifters also improve response in higher gears by executing double-gear downshifts.

30-inch tires wrap its 16-inch steel wheels. Two front and one rear tow hook give the Bronco extra functionality. The 8-inch touchscreen with Sync 4 lends a little brain to the Bronco’s brawn. Push-button start and LED headlamps add to its high-end feel. Best-in-class water fording and ground clearance mean the 2021 Bronco is ready for rugged adventure.

Ford Bronco

a yellow 2021 Ford Bronco SUV
2021 Ford Bronco | Ford

RELATED: Leonardo di Vincci Invented the CVT Over 500 Years Ago

The Ford Bronco offers a 10-speed automatic transmission with Trail Control on its base model and several other trim levels. The Bronco features and easily removed roof doors for an exhilarating ride. This SUV’s transmission was built to be put through its paces and tested on some of the most grueling endurance race tracks on earth.

Ford Edge

The 2021 Ford Edge features a fascinating automatic transmission. While it’s mechanically identical to the 2019 and 2020 versions, it’s been updated uniquely. Ford North America SUV Communications Manager Kelly Wysocki told Ford Authority, “We’ve kept Edge ST’s performance while improving shift action based on customer feedback by deleting the shift from 2nd to 3rd gear,”

In short, Ford eliminated the second gear by using software to change the shift parameters of the transmission. This may be the first time in automotive history that an automaker has used software to eliminate a gear. Avoiding costly hardware changes helps keep costs low.

The Mazda3 is one of few new cars without CVT that feel sporty

A grey 2021 Mazda3 crossover on display
2021 Mazda3 | Mazda

RELATED: Why do CVT Transmissions Simulate Shifts?

The biggest criticism of the 2021 Mazda3 is its basic infotainment system. However, a bare-bones touch screen isn’t a deal-breaker for a sporty and inexpensive drive. The Mazda3 is one of the sportiest compact cars on the market. It makes up for its shortcomings with responsive handling and a fun drive. Higher Mazda3 trim packages can be pricey and should be carefully weighed.

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Is There an Official Certification for Automotive Detailing You Should Look For?

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Automotive detailing is a major industry, like many other aspects of the automotive industry, that works toward maintaining cars after they are purchased. For mechanics, there is a more obvious certification that allows consumers to recognize their credentials, called the ASE. When it comes to detailing, however, there is a lesser-recognized certification option.

Do you have to be certified to become a detailer?

To become a professional detailer or even start a professional detailing business, you don’t necessarily have to obtain any form of detailing certification. Perhaps that is because when it comes to detailing, the results of each individual’s work is pretty obvious, and you can tell the good detailers from the bad based on their work, as opposed to mechanics who work on less conspicuous areas of the vehicle.

Cars being washed at a car wash | Liam McBurney, PA Images, Getty Images

Being a good detailer takes time and practice

While detailing a vehicle doesn’t involve any mechanical or electrical work, it can still be a very time-consuming and technical process. Automotive detailers undertake a number of tasks inside and outside of the car, which can include technical skills such as paint correction and ceramic coating application. Oftentimes skills like these are acquired through apprenticeships, but they can also be learned through schooling. Because of this, certifications aren’t a requirement.

Two workers wash a car
Men working at car wash | Jeffrey Greenberg, Universal Images Group, Getty Images

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What is the International Detailing Association

Just because you don’t have to be certified to professionally detail cars doesn’t mean that there aren’t certification programs and associations to establish quality and procedures for many aspects of automotive detailing. Detailers can opt to become a part of the International Detailing Association and become certified through skills testing, but that doesn’t necessarily make them better detailers than those without the certification.

Like other organizations, the IDA has several levels and types of certifications, each with its own set of testing and requirement. There are even specialty certifications for a less generalized form of detailing, such as marine detailing, which can vary slightly.

RELATED: Washing Your Car Wrong Now Can Hurt Its Resale Value

The International Detailing Association, IDA, also works as a community connecting automotive detailers, suppliers, and operators together. There are many benefits of detailers joining the IDA even if it isn’t a requirement to open an automotive detailing business.

If you are looking for a local professional detailer, you shouldn’t be discouraged if they don’t have an IDA certification, as many high-quality professional detailers may not have the optional certification.

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