The Toyota Corolla

The Toyota Corolla is sold in over 140 countries. With over 30 million cars sold, the Corolla is the world’s best-selling car — ever. Launched in 1966, it became Japan’s best selling car in 1969, and has been ever since, with the exception of 2001 and 2002. (Source: Daily Yomiuri)
News: Over a million U.S. Corolla and Matrix cars might be recalled due to a stalling issue reported here earlier, which appears to be related to the electronic systems. The stalls appear to be random and can occur during acceleration; there is no prior warning. In 2007 Toyota traced a stalling problem to the engine computer, and they seem to believe this would be the issue for the 2005, 2006, and 2007 model years, with failed solder joints or shorts being the issue. (The problem should also affect the Pontiac Vibe, which is essentially the Matrix.)
The Toyota Corolla is the best selling car in the world, and no wonder. It has peppy acceleration, agile handling, excellent fuel economy, and a smooth, comfortable ride. The 2007 Corolla produced, by far, the best gas mileage for a comfortable, quiet car in its class - 40 mpg highway with the stick, 38 with the automatic! (The 2009 Corolla is rated at 27 city, 35 highway, using tougher standards). The Toyota Matrix, a station-wagon version, is suprisingly sporty, and has its own interior. The Toyota Corolla XRS is like a four-door Celica with more comfort - right down to the 170 horsepower engine. Coming soon: possibly the fastest Corolla ever, with the Camry’s 2.4 liter, 158 hp engine!