Already famous for their great reliability and excellent value for money, the Corolla range was updated in 1997. Guiding their evolution process on the “If it’s not broken, don’t fix it” idea, Toyota managed to keep Corolla’s position on the market, thus it was awarded the world’s best selling car title in 1997. The 5-door sedan was upgraded along with the 5-door liftback, the estate and the saloon body styles. A world car, the Toyota Corolla was sold in three different markets: Japan, North America and Europe. While the previous models were greatly appreciated, Toyota noticed the customer’s need of a more fun-to-drive vehicle, thus excitement needed to be a word to define the new generation. The new models came with a changed suspension, new fabrics inside, more lively design elements and a heavily redesigned exterior look, with revised headlights, a new grille and new taillights. The redesigned exterior also helped reducing the NVH levels with its flush-mounted side windows and other techniques borrowed from Lexus. Other changes included new technical specifications and well as more equipment. Both gasoline and diesel units were available, however, the Japanese market had a broader range of engines to choose from. Most Corollas were powered by a 1.8-liter all-aluminium DOHC 4-cylinder engine that developed 120 hp and 122 pound-feet of torque. Besides more power offered, the engine helped achieving a lower fuel consumption than its predecessor. Concerned about safety, Toyota offered the Corolla with four-wheel antilock brakes and side-impact airbags.