The 2014 Toyota Corolla is finally unveiled, and official pricing on Toyota’s Focus and Sonic competitor has been announced. While there is much contention on the technology and trim packages available for the Corolla (more on that later), it is interesting to note that all Toyota Corolla models, including the base $16,800 L version comes standard with LED headlights.

2014 Toyota Corolla

LED headlights, found on mostly premium and luxury vehicles, take the benefits of high-intensity-discharge xenon lighting and improve longevity of the lights. LEDs are extremely energy efficient, and run much cooler than standard light bulbs and xenon bulbs. Cooler bulbs mean greater life. Presumably, replacing a burnt-out headlamp could be a thing of the past.

2014 Toyota Corolla

It is interesting that Toyota is offering this technology on such an inexpensive vehicle. This should be a wakeup call to the other manufacturers who charge an expensive premium for the advanced lighting, or do not even offer it at all on any trim. In addition to the energy benefits the lighting offers, it is also much brighter than standard headlight bulbs. We like the technology so much that we consider it a safety feature on a vehicle and think it is something that a buyer should look for on his or her next vehicle.

2014 Toyota Corolla

We have not had a chance to review the ’14 Corolla yet, but do find it surprising that even though the vehicle features the latest technology in headlights and infotainment, it still comes with a 4-speed automatic on base models. Jalopnik has gone as far as to say, “The 2014 Toyota Corolla is 2003’s Best New Car.” Interestingly, the most powerful engine is also the most fuel-efficient, offering 42mpg on the highway. We are not quite sure about that assessment, but ancient transmissions and antiquated drum rear brakes do make us wonder about Toyota’s cost-cutting in the vehicle.

2014 Toyota Corolla

We do applaud Toyota for the new Corolla and offering such great safety technology like the LED headlights, and look forward to driving the vehicle in the future to make our own judgements.