Scotty Kilmer Reviews the Toyota Corolla S: The Only Toyota He'd Still Buy

The Toyota Corolla S: A Rare Find

• 🚗 The Toyota Corolla S with a six-speed manual transmission is highlighted as a rare and desirable vehicle in the United States.
• 🇺🇸 Americans' preference for automatics makes manual Corollas hard to find, despite their quality.
• 🛡️ Toyota's electrostatic paint and annual oil coating help prevent rust, even in harsh climates like New Hampshire.

Engine and Fuel Efficiency

• ⛽ The 1.8-liter engine is praised as one of Toyota's most dependable, offering over 40 MPG with the manual transmission.
• ⚙️ The video contrasts this with modern complex fuel injection systems (GDI, dual systems), suggesting simpler, older designs are more reliable long-term.
• 💨 While not fast, the engine provides adequate power for daily driving and hills, unlike older, less powerful vehicles.

Durability and Maintenance

• 🔧 The car, with 148,000 miles, still has original components like the alternator, ABS, and starter, showcasing Toyota's legendary reliability.
• 🔋 Even the battery, though replaced, highlights Toyota's long-lasting parts, with a story of a 20-year-old 4Runner with its original battery.
• 💰 Parts for popular vehicles like the Corolla are readily available and affordable, especially as the car ages, making them a smart buy.

Interior and Technology

• 🛋️ The interior features basic seat covers, but offers comfortable space for passengers and cargo.
• 💻 A Mukar 892 Bluetooth diagnostic tool is used to scan the car, revealing minor codes related to the keyless entry system and TPMS, which are easily cleared.
• 🚦 The car's systems, including the evap system, are functioning adequately for areas without emissions testing.

Driving Experience and Value

• 🛣️ The Corolla S offers a comfortable ride, even with original struts, and handles well for its class.
• 💰 Purchased used for $10,000 two years prior, it represents excellent value compared to the average used car price of $30,000.
• ✅ The manual transmission Corolla S is recommended as a dependable, long-lasting vehicle that holds its value well, especially for those who appreciate a standard shift.