The 2014 Toyota Corolla S Plus is a sporty trim level of the eleventh-generation compact sedan, featuring a revised exterior design, a continuously variable transmission, sport-tuned suspension, and upgraded interior amenities designed to appeal to buyers seeking style and efficiency in an affordable package.
Introduction and Model Evolution
The automotive landscape shifted significantly in 2014 when Toyota completely redesigned its legendary Corolla, marking the debut of the eleventh generation. Among the various trim levels offered—L, LE, LE Eco, and S—the S (Sport) grade quickly established itself as a focal point for buyers who wanted traditional Corolla dependability fused with aggressive styling cues and slightly sharper driving dynamics. Within the S lineup, the S Plus sat near the top, introducing larger alloy wheels, a stiffer suspension setup, and rear disc brakes that separated it from the standard S model.
Understanding this vehicle requires looking past its conservative mechanical roots. While the Corolla had historically prioritized fuel economy and bulletproof reliability over driving excitement, the 2014 redesign aimed to inject emotional appeal into the brand. By evaluating its exterior styling, powertrain capabilities, interior layout, and long-term ownership prospects, prospective buyers and automotive enthusiasts can better understand how the S Plus variant holds up in the pre-owned market.
Exterior Styling and Aerodynamics
The 2014 redesign brought a much-needed break from the bland, rounded styling of the tenth-generation models. The S Plus trim maximized this aggressive design language, starting with a unique front fascia characterized by a large piano-black grille, chrome surround, and integrated lower front air dam. Halogen projector-beam headlights came standard, flanked by standard LED low-beam headlights with LED accent lights—a notable upscale feature for a mainstream compact sedan in 2014.
Along the side profile, the S Plus featured color-matched heated power outside mirrors, body-color door handles, and aerodynamic side skirts that visually lowered the vehicle's stance. The rear end was highlighted by a decklid spoiler, a chrome-tipped exhaust finisher, and combination taillights with integrated aerodynamic micro-elements.
What truly set the S Plus apart from the base S model was the wheel package. While the standard S rolled on 16-inch steel or optional alloy wheels, the S Plus came equipped with distinct 17-inch machine-finished alloy wheels wrapped in P215/45R17 all-season tires. These larger wheels filled the wheel arches more completely and contributed to a planted, confident visual presence.
Powertrain, Transmission, and Performance
Underneath the hood of the 2014 Toyota Corolla S Plus lies a 1.8-liter naturally aspirated inline-four engine, designated by the engine code 2ZR-FE. This powerplant utilizes Toyota's Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence) technology to optimize combustion efficiency and power delivery.
| Specification | 2014 Toyota Corolla S Plus Value |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 1.8L 4-Cylinder (2ZR-FE) |
| Horsepower | 132 hp @ 6,000 RPM |
| Torque | 128 lb-ft @ 4,400 RPM |
| Transmission | Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Fuel Economy (EPA) | 29 City / 37 Hwy / 32 Combined MPG |
| Rear Brakes | Ventilated Discs (Exclusive to S Plus) |
While the engine carried over similar output figures to the previous generation—producing 132 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 128 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm—the transmission pairing was entirely new. Toyota replaced the aging four-speed automatic transmission with an intelligent Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) featuring simulated seven-speed sequential shift modes, accessible via steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters or the gear lever.
The inclusion of the CVT significantly improved fuel economy. The EPA rated the 2014 Corolla S Plus at an impressive 29 mpg city, 37 mpg highway, and 32 mpg combined. To further tailor the driving experience, the S Plus included a "Sport" driving mode button located on the center console. When engaged, the Sport mode altered the transmission shift programming, sharpened throttle response, and added weight to the electric power steering system, creating a marginally more engaging commute.
Ride, Handling, and Sport-Tuned Suspension
The "S" in Corolla S Plus stood for Sport, and Toyota implemented distinct chassis modifications to back up the visual styling. The S Plus featured a unique sport-tuned suspension geometry, which included stiffer spring rates, revised shock absorber damping, and retuned bushing characteristics compared to the base LE and L models.
Furthermore, while lesser Corolla trims utilized rear drum brakes, the S Plus upgraded to a four-wheel disc brake system, featuring ventilated front rotors and solid rear discs. This hardware upgrade provided more consistent braking performance and reduced brake fade during repeated stops.
Despite these sporting pretensions, the Corolla S Plus remained fundamentally a comfortable, daily-driving commuter car. The suspension absorbed highway expansion joints and urban potholes with composure, though the combination of the stiffer springs and low-profile 17-inch tires resulted in a firmer ride quality than a standard LE model. Body roll through tight corners was controlled, and the electric power steering offered adequate feedback, though drivers seeking true hot-hatch or sport-sedan agility would find the Corolla's front-wheel-drive platform and economy-focused chassis skewed toward stability rather than playfulness.
Interior Comfort, Technology, and Ergonomics
Stepping inside the 2014 Toyota Corolla S Plus reveals a cabin designed around driver engagement and modern connectivity. The dashboard layout featured a horizontal architecture that emphasized interior width, accented by metallic trim pieces and piano-black surfaces around the center stack.
Seating and Ergonomics
The S Plus came standard with sport-bolstered front bucket seats upholstered in premium fabric with contrasting blue stitching and synthetic leather bolsters. These seats offered greater lateral support than standard Corolla seats while maintaining long-distance comfort. The driver's seat included manual six-way adjustability, while the front passenger seat offered four-way adjustments.
Rear-seat passengers benefited significantly from the 2014 redesign. Toyota extended the wheelbase by nearly four inches compared to the tenth generation, resulting in class-leading rear legroom measuring 41.4 inches. Tall adults could sit comfortably in the back without their knees touching the front seatbacks. A 60/40 split-folding rear bench seat allowed owners to expand the trunk's 13.0 cubic feet of cargo capacity for larger items.
Infotainment and Electronics
Technology features in the 2014 S Plus centered around the Toyota Entune audio system, displayed on a 6.1-inch touchscreen interface mounted centrally on the dashboard. The system included:
- AM/FM CD player with MP3/WMA playback capability
- USB 2.0 port with iPod connectivity and control
- Auxiliary audio input jack
- Hands-free phone capability and music streaming via Bluetooth wireless technology
- Integrated backup camera display
Automatic climate control, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, and a multi-information display situated between the analog speedometer and tachometer completed the driver-focused cockpit.
Safety Ratings and Equipment
Safety was a major selling point for the eleventh-generation Corolla. The 2014 Toyota Corolla S Plus came equipped with the Star Safety System, which incorporated:
- Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)
- Traction Control (TRAC)
- Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)
- Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
- Brake Assist
- Smart Stop Technology (brake override system)
Passive safety features included eight standard airbags, featuring driver and front passenger dual-stage airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags, a driver's knee airbag, and a front passenger seat-cushion airbag designed to prevent submarining during a frontal collision. Whiplash-injury-lessening front seats came standard.
In crash testing conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the 2014 Corolla achieved an overall safety rating of five out of five stars. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the vehicle its highest rating of "Good" in moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint tests, though it received a "Marginal" rating in the small overlap front test, which was a challenging new benchmark introduced during that era.
Ownership Costs, Reliability, and Common Issues
The 2014 Toyota Corolla S Plus inherits the brand's legendary reputation for mechanical durability, making it a popular choice in the used car market. Maintenance costs remain exceptionally low due to widespread parts availability and straightforward engineering. Routine services—such as oil changes, spark plug replacements, and brake pad swaps—can easily be performed by independent mechanics or DIY enthusiasts.
Potential Mechanical Considerations
- CVT Longevity: While Toyota's early-generation multi-mode CVTs proved more reliable than many competitor transmissions of the era, fluid changes every 60,000 miles are strongly recommended to ensure long-term mechanical health.
- Dashboard Melt and Glare: Some owners reported dashboard materials prone to reflective glare under specific midday sunlight angles, though this was primarily an aesthetic annoyance rather than a mechanical failure.
- Interior Trim Wear: The piano-black plastic trim surrounding the gear selector and radio screen is prone to fine scratches and fingerprint accumulation, requiring careful cleaning with microfiber cloths.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Corolla S and the Corolla S Plus?
While both models share the aggressive exterior styling, sport-tuned suspension, and interior sport seats, the S Plus adds two key hardware upgrades: 17-inch machine-finished alloy wheels (replacing the standard S model's smaller wheels) and four-wheel disc brakes with solid rear rotors (replacing the standard S rear drum brakes).
Does the 2014 Toyota Corolla S Plus have a manual transmission option?
Yes. While the majority of S Plus models were sold with the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) featuring paddle shifters, Toyota also offered a 6-speed manual transmission for purists who preferred a traditional three-pedal setup, though manual-equipped models are significantly rarer on the used market.
Is the 2014 Toyota Corolla S Plus good on gas?
The S Plus achieves excellent fuel economy for a compact sedan, EPA-rated at 29 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway when equipped with the CVT. Real-world fuel economy frequently matches or exceeds these figures under temperate highway cruising conditions.
Does the 2014 Corolla S Plus feature Bluetooth and a backup camera?
Yes. Every 2014 Corolla S Plus comes standard with Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity, audio streaming, a USB port, and a standard rearview camera displayed through the 6.1-inch Entune touchscreen head unit.
How does the rear legroom in the 2014 Corolla compare to previous generations?
The 2014 redesign expanded the wheelbase by nearly four inches, resulting in a dramatic improvement in rear passenger space. With 41.4 inches of rear legroom, the eleventh-generation Corolla offers class-competitive legroom that rivals many midsize sedans from prior decades.
Final Recommendation and Buying Guidance
The 2014 Toyota Corolla S Plus successfully bridges the gap between sensible economy car ownership and sporty visual appeal. Buyers seeking a reliable, fuel-efficient daily driver with an elevated aesthetic package will find the S Plus trim to be a compelling option. When evaluating a used model, verify the maintenance history—specifically looking for documented CVT fluid service—and inspect the condition of the 17-inch alloy wheels, which are prone to curb rash. For commuters and budget-conscious drivers prioritizing low operational overhead without sacrificing modern styling, the Corolla S Plus remains a dependable automotive choice.
