Brew wrote on Mar 29^th, 2009 at 9:57pm:


So did I (four years ago).  But the current base, LE, LXE and Sport S all have 1.8 liters, and the other lines have larger engines. My narrative is correct.  Over time, that car has gotten bigger (more weight and wind resistance), the engine has gotten larger and more powerful, and that has kept mileage around the same spot.  I'm not putting values into it - it is simple physics and historical fact.   Technology helps - the engine is more efficient in some ways, the larger body is redesigned to lower drag as much as practical.  But I really don't see where I said anything worth disagreeing with. 

If you don't believe me, go here, or any of the hundreds of other pages that document the same thing:
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Brew wrote on Mar 29^th, 2009 at 9:57pm:


I'm not suggesting that reliability be abandoned.  I like my Corolla, and I just said it is much better than the same car was in the past - something about continuous improvement, I do believe.  

monty wrote on Mar 29^th, 2009 at 9:49pm:

what i'm saying is the SUVs and pick up trucks haven't improved in fuel mileage until gas went up over $4 a gallon. they had the technology but they held out. (the big 3)

companies like toyota havent held back so much. i would put toyota up against any car manufacturer in the world. 

i could be wrong but from what i understand is that european cars before they can be sold in the US get %15 less gas mileage due to epa standards which don't really have anything to do with emissions.

the corollas that you and bill drive that get 35mpg here in the states might get 40-42mpg if they're sold in say france or italy.

btw. i commend you both on your choice of automobile.  i would much rather buy a toyota made in kentucky that a chevy made in mexico.