The Toyota Corolla E140 (often referred to as the 10th global generation, or 11th depending on markets and facelifts) marks a strategic turning point. In Europe, the hatchback version was rebadged as the Auris (E150), while the Corolla name was retained for the three-box sedan, which was very popular in Eastern Europe, Ireland, and international markets. Although Toyota is globally renowned for its legendary reliability, this generation presents a very mixed record for diesel engines (D-4D). While the small 1.4 D-4D is a model of robustness, the 2.0 and 2.2 D-4D blocks (AD series) suffered from serious design flaws (engine block, cylinder head gasket) that tarnished the brand's reputation. Gasoline versions, on the other hand, are close to perfection.
The Toyota Corolla E140 is a two-faced car. If you are looking for a diesel, the choice must fall exclusively on the 1.4 D-4D (90 hp), which is a model of reliability and economy. The 2.0 and 2.2 D-4D versions are real nests of trouble (cylinder head gaskets, DPF, injectors) and must be avoided at all costs, unless the engine was replaced by Toyota after 2010. If you are open to gasoline, any engine (1.4, 1.6, 1.8) will offer you absolute peace of mind for hundreds of thousands of kilometers. Also avoid the MMT automated manual gearbox.