The 2014 Toyota Corolla S Plus represents a significant step up from the standard Corolla, blending the model's legendary reliability with enhanced performance, styling, and technology. This specific trim level was designed to appeal to drivers who desired more than just basic transportation, offering a sportier aesthetic and a more engaging driving experience without sacrificing the efficiency and durability the Corolla name is known for. Positioned above the base and LE trims, the S Plus served as a popular gateway for buyers looking for a premium feel within the reliable compact sedan segment.
Design and Styling Enhancements
Visually, the 2014 Corolla S Plus distinguishes itself with a more aggressive and sophisticated appearance. The most notable change is the redesigned front bumper, which integrates a larger grille and more pronounced fog light surrounds, giving the car a wider and more planted stance. The addition of a rear spoiler not only adds to the aggressive look but is also functional, helping to stabilize the car at higher speeds. Furthermore, the S Plus came with unique 17-inch alloy wheels that complemented its lower stance and provided a cleaner, more polished look compared to the steel wheels on lesser trims.
Performance and Handling
Under the hood, the 2014 Corolla S Plus retained the reliable 1.8-liter 2ZR-FE four-cylinder engine, producing 140 horsepower and 126 lb-ft of torque. While these numbers were not revolutionary, they were perfectly tuned for the S Plus's intended purpose, providing smooth and adequate power for daily driving and highway merging. The key differentiator was the suspension tuning; the S Plus featured a sport-tuned suspension that was firmer and more responsive than its base counterparts. This adjustment resulted in noticeably improved handling, making the car feel more connected to the road and offering a more confident drive through corners.
Interior and Technology
Inside, the 2014 Corolla S Plus made its presence known through upgraded materials and features. Unlike the cloth seats found in the base models, the S Plus came with stylish cloth-appointed sport seats that offered better support during spirited driving. The steering wheel was also redesigned, featuring a unique three-spade design and integrated paddle shifters, allowing drivers to manually control the CVT transmission for a more involved experience. Additionally, the S Plus boasted a larger, easier-to-read color multi-information display on the instrument cluster, which provided access to various driving modes and performance data.
Sport-tuned suspension for enhanced handling.
Unique 17-inch alloy wheels and rear spoiler.
Power-adjustable front driver's seat for better ergonomics.
Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming capabilities.
USB connectivity for charging and audio input.
Advanced multi-information display with driving mode selection.
Safety and Reliability
Toyota's commitment to safety was fully integrated into the 2014 Corolla S Plus, ensuring that the enhanced performance did not come at the expense of protection. The trim included a suite of advanced safety features, such as Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), traction control, and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), all of which worked to maintain grip and control in various driving conditions. Furthermore, the S Plus came standard with Toyota's renowned Star Safety System, which integrates brake assist, electronic brake-force distribution, and anti-lock brakes to provide maximum stopping power. The inherent reliability of the Corolla platform meant that owners could enjoy the additional features with confidence, knowing the core engineering was proven to last.
