Getting Over 40 MPG in Comfort
In the MPG race for a 40+ rating in a compact sedan, the Toyota Corolla LE Eco CVT shows how it’s done without giving up performance, comfort or amenities.
The Corolla LE Eco CVT uses a combination of powertrain tech and special aerodynamic touches to aid in its exemplary fuel economy. Its exclusive version of the 1.8-liter engine features Valvematic technology, which offers a broader range of continuously variable valve timing (lift and phasing) than even the Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) in the standard Corolla 1.8-liter engine. The Corolla LE Eco is also a bit more powerful than the other Corolla models, with 140 horsepower vs. 132.
Toyota programmed some special tricks into the Corolla LE Eco model. When you select the ECO driving mode, power to the air conditioner compressor is reduced, though the system runs in recirculation mode to compensate for the longer cool-down time. Also, the accelerator is programmed to control responses to choppy driving and to contain acceleration from a standing start in order to help reduce fuel consumption.
In effect, switching to ECO mode helps makes you a smoother driver. Don’t think that ECO mode holds the car back, though. Once past 50-percent throttle (such as for merging in traffic), the accelerator responds the same as it does in Normal mode.
The Corolla LE Eco cheats the wind with aerodynamic underbody covers and a color-keyed rear spoiler, which brings its coefficient of drag (Cd) down to an impressive 0.28 (0.29 and 0.30 in other Corolla models). The under-covers are located below the bumper fascia, engine, front and rear floor and fuel tank to help manage airflow for enhanced efficiency. (The Corolla S model gets these special panels, too).
This high-MPG rated Corolla LE Eco lowers friction with low rolling resistance 195/65R15 tires. Available 16-inch aerodynamic alloy wheels (which, as a bonus, happen to look like they came from a high-end sports car) use a 205/55R16 tire. The Corolla LE likewise features 16-inch alloys with that tire size.
What the Corolla LE Eco doesn’t do is compromise on comfort. This model comes standard with a host of amenities, including:
-Automatic climate control
-Entune audio with multimedia bundle
-6.1-inch display screen and six speakers
-Rear camera with projected path guide lines for parking ease
-Tilt/telescopic steering wheel with Bluetooth® hands-free phone controls
And that’s all in the standard trim. The Plus and Premium trims add more amenities, the latter including, for example, SofTex®-trimmed heated front seats and an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat.