2008 Toyota Corolla Review: A Dependable Small Car With Less Problems Than The Competition

Jan 23, 2022

More expensive than the competition at $5,006 to $8,411, the 2008 Toyota Corolla leads its class in reliability. The low cost of ownership and no serious mechanical problems make 2008 a great year that should last over 300,000 miles.

The Good

Reliability ratings are outstanding for the class, fuel economy is great for a compact car, and interior materials are strong holding up well over time compared to some more affordable rivals.

The Bad

The engine is underpowered compared to other compact cars, the driving experience is downright boring, and the standard technology is very basic even for a budget-friendly car.

2008 Toyota Corolla: Quick Overview

According to J.D. Power reliability ratings are great, the engines can last over 300,000 miles, and there are no widespread mechanical issues.
Only one 4-cylinder engine is available, having less power than some competitors.
Fuel economy is great, tying for 2^nd place out of all compact cars from 2008 with a combined rating of up to 31 miles per gallon.
Safety ratings are average for the class getting 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests.
The 2008 Toyota Corolla ranks 6^th out of 29 compact cars based on owner reviews. The Corolla is affordable to own, has fewer problems than other compact cars, and a 2008 model is a good choice for buyers.

Expert Ratings

Kelley Blue Book

4.7/5

US News

7.7/10

Cars.com

4.2/5

Positive Owner Reviews

Cassie m

It's very practical, and I enjoy owning it

I like the size of the vehicle. It runs very smoothly and I rarely have issues with it. The gas mileage is great. It's perfect for what i need it for

Hanno R

The windshield wipers spread more than wipe off dirt

I love how reliable it is, I have driven to Mexico and back and through several long trips. I wish it was bigger so I could fit more stuff and sleep in it better. I just got a flat in it too today so if I could get some more durable tires against screws I'd be stoked

Joan W

My wonderful, dependable Corolla.

I love that my car starts every time. It has a lot of pep. The car handles really well. It has a tight not mushy feel. The brakes stop quickly. It has a radio, CD player heat and air-conditioning. The seats recline. It gets decent gas mileage. I get timely oil changes and regular maintenance.

Julia F

For a 4-cylinder car it actually has a nice kick to it and goes fast.

For my car to be 11 years old I personally have not had a problem with it. My car has worked exactly like it should and has not had a problem running. I feel as if it has plenty of room for others. I have had my car since 2017 and it has been great for me. It provides room for my brothers and sisters plenty of room.

kewang X

It is with suitable size for me. Neither too big or too small.

I really enjoyed my car. It is a compacted green car. It runs very smoothly and does very well in my daily life. Easy to drive.

Jeanette G

Car is extremely reliable & easy to fix.

The size of the car is perfect, not too big and still small enough to fit in compact areas (great for finding parking). It feels safe to drive. The handling is great overall. The amount of gas that is needed for the car is great for saving lots of money. Super reliable, I haven't had any major problems with the car mechanically. Interior wise it is spacious. Only thing is there is no spot for an AUX cable, you an use CD’s, but it is not the same. The air conditioning works great. Overall, it is a great car for any first buyer out there.

Bethany D

Toyota's will last up to very high miles. Very reliable.

The Toyota Corolla is amazing on gas, reliable, and easy to maintain. For my vehicle needs, I just want a reliable car with cheap parts.

Maya K

The modern tank: a car that could do me no wrong.

This car is my parents' car. They have owned it since 2007, and we have never had any major problems with it. There is more than 100, 000 miles on the car, and yet it runs like it is still brand new. I am sure that we will have that car until it breaks down and no longer works, in the next 10 years.

Negative Owner Reviews

Gina S

My vehicle is a small bade base model Sudan.

My car had been reliable throughout the years and has lasted longer than other cars of people I know (over 10 years). It is very good on gas, but as it gets older I have noticed more small issues with it that add up. Since it is a light car, I sometimes feel on unsteady on a windy highway.

Denise S

Black Toyota Corolla, great for commuters.

The vehicle is older so it does not have the technology upgrades that I would like to have and utilize on my commute to and from work. The gas mileage is good and I only have to fill up 1 per week with our multiple round trips in one day. The smaller size helps with parking in smaller work garages.

Ed G

It runs really well for it's age.

I bought it used from a former boss. It was in great condition. I maintained it reasonably well. But now it's getting too old and it's time for a New Car.

Tim F

Runs great and low mileage. The air conditioning works fantastic.

No power anything or keyless entry. It has low mileage which is a plus, runs great. Too small at times, wanted an SUV.

Kailea L

It's a very reliable vehicle that will continue to be of use no matter age or how many miles

The Toyota Corolla has been a very reliable car. It's very inexpensive with it's repairs and also very easy to maintain. It runs great and even though it has almost 200 miles on it, it still runs great!

Barrett B

It is a reliable car with great gas mileage that will fulfill all your daily driving needs

It's a very reliable vehicle with good gas mileage but it's really nothing fancy. I'd prefer a car with more speed or one with a more visually appealing look to it.

Amanda C

It's reliable for short trips

Reliable for short distances but would be worried to take it on a long road trip because of past maintenance issues. Brakes, battery, and engine have all be troublesome

Zulaikha s

Toyota has few advantages , such as it is durable , Hybrid power

Overall , I like Toyota model cars, because it spend less fuel and is comfortable.

What Problems Does the 2008 Toyota Corolla Have?

The 2008 Toyota Corolla has fewer problems than other compact cars on the market in the same price range. The redesigned 2009 model has more complaints from owners, making the 2008 a better choice for the money.

Engine problems which cause a check engine light are brought up by owners. There are some computer and sensor problems which can make the light come on. If you have a check engine light, the best course of action is to use an OBD-II scan tool to find the source of the problem. In some cases a simple reset is needed, and in others you may need a new sensor.

Buzzing noises in the dash while driving are another problem owners mention. There’s no definitive source of the noise and can vary from belt sounds to A/C compressor noises. The best thing to do is to let a mechanic inspect the vehicle if you hear strange sounds.

Paint rusting and peeling is another problem owners have encountered over the years. Usually paint failures happen when the car is exposed to excessive sunlight. Repainting the affected panels is the only solution, costing about $1,000 per panel.

There are 7 recalls, which is average for a car from 2012. The recalls include load carrying labels, the engine stalling for an engine control module fault, and air bags. Most serious is the engine stalling since the risk of an accident increases.

What is the 2008 Toyota Corolla Worth?

The 2012 Toyota Corolla is more expensive than a lot of other compact cars with a price range of $5,006 to $8,411, depending on the model and mileage. When new, the price range was $14,450 to $16,415. Depreciation is better than competitors, only dropping about 10% per year on the used market.

What Are the Models & Specs?

CE is the entry-level model offering 15-inch steel wheels, cloth seating, air conditioning, an AM/FM/CD stereo system with 4-speakers, adjustable driver’s seat, and folding rear seats.
S is in the middle of the lineup but adds new front and rear bumpers, a spoiler, leather steering wheel, and fog lights.
LE is the flagship model with 16-inch alloy wheels, sunroof, wood interior trim, power windows, keyless entry, and a 6-speaker stereo system.

126 HP 31-31 MPG

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126 HP 31-31 MPG

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126 HP 31-31 MPG

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How Long Will the 2008 Toyota Corolla Last?

A properly maintained 2008 Toyota Corolla can last over 300,000 miles, and is one of the longest-lasting compact cars on the market. Repair Pal estimates regular annual maintenance costs to be more affordable than other compact cars at $296 per year.

There are some common costly maintenance items buyers should be aware of on Corollas with over 100,000 miles. They include oil pumps costing $1,100, mass air flow sensors at $225, and alternators which cost about $380.

Kathy M

Yes it is very reliable. No it has no problems. I have had to replace the battery twice but that is because batteries don't last more than a couple of years.

Sean B

It needs a new air filter inside the glove compartment, has a hole in one of the pipes under the car, and has leakage in one of the pipes under the hood of the car.

Kim G

Yes, except that it hydroplanes easily. Also, the passenger airbag was recalled, but I am not overly concerned.

Judy B

Yes, except the paint faded and rusted like most dark blue and black corollas I see and know of people who drive them.

Nikki B

Yes it is a reliable car the only problem is that it is not super reliable in the snow since it is such a light vehicle.

Mandy R

Very reliable. I have drove it 10 hours to Florida and back twice over the summer. Great gas mileages!!

Shaun H

Very reliable. I couldn't ask for anything more. It has been one of my best cars I have ever owned other than my Lexus who is made by Toyota. I do not buy any other brand of cars. It is always been Toyota.

Kristine K

No problems other than an airbag recall and a sensor issue with the check engine light. Other than that I never had real work done to it other than replacing an old belt.

What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?

Technology is very basic in the 2008 Toyota Corolla, and is missing some features available on rivals.

Standard technology includes a simple 4-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo system.
Optional upgrades add AUX connectivity, 6-speaker stereo, or optional 8-speaker JBL stereo system.
Standard safety features include antilock brakes and air bags. Optional upgrades include traction control and brake assist.

What Engine Options are Available?

Only one engine is available in the 2008 Toyota Corolla, which is a 1.8L 4-cylinder with 126 horsepower. Performance is weak for the class, taking 10.1 seconds to go from 0 to 60 miles per hour.

What Color Options are Available?

How Big is the Corolla?

The 2008 Toyota Corolla is a compact sedan, similar in size to some rivals including the Civic. Passenger room is average for the class with less passenger room than some rivals, and the back seats are cramped for taller adults. There’s enough space to fit 3 to 4 suitcases in the 13.6 cubic feet of room in the trunk.

How Does the 2008 Toyota Corolla Compare to Other Cars?

Ranking 6^th out of 29 compact cars, based on owner reviews, the 2008 Toyota Corolla is near the top of the class.

A close competitor is the more affordable Honda Civic. The Civic has more technology available, and is a sportier car to drive. Where the Corolla comes out ahead is with significantly better reliability, and a more comfortable ride with a smoother suspension. Overall, the Corolla is a better choice for the 2008 model year, but the competition is closer in other years.

Another rival is the Ford Focus, which has a lower starting price. The Focus is a more engaging car to drive, and the interior materials feel better. On the other hand, the Corolla has significantly fewer complaints from owners, a lower cost of ownership, and a more comfortable cabin. The Corolla easily wins out here and is a better choice for shoppers.

Ranks #6 Small Cars by Owners

2008 Volkswagen R32

2008 Honda Fit

4.56

Tie

2008 Toyota Corolla

4.31

Final Verdict: Is the 2008 Toyota Corolla a Good Car?

Yes, the 2008 Toyota Corolla is a good car based on our research including 320 verified owner reviews, and 14 government and automotive websites. Where the Corolla excels is with outstanding long-term reliability, and great fuel economy. Some downsides include less technology than many rivals, and a weaker engine than rivals. Overall, the 2008 Corolla is a good car for buyers looking for a dependable daily driver.

Kathy M

Yes. I love it. I bought it new and haven't had any trouble at all. I keep up the maintenance and tires. I only have 98000 miles on it.

Sean B

Yes, very fast in terms of speed, very good on gas, a little worn out, but beats inspection every time I go to the dealer.

Kim G

Yes, it is low maintenance and extremely reliable. I have almost no issues, except that it hydroplanes easily.

Judy B

Yes, I have over 107,000 miles on it. I have had no major repairs to it, only the required maintenance.

Nikki B

Yes the carols is a reliable car and is inexpensive to maintain. They are durable and the cost to fill the tank is also inexpensive.

Mandy R

Yes it runs great. I never have any problems. I always keep my oil changed and everything is all good.

Shaun H

Yes I love it. It is great on gas and never breaks down. In my opinion Toyota makes the best vehicles on the market.

Kristine K

It is great I would highly recommend. I have had it for over ten years with no problems. Just take care of it, change the oil, spark plugs and battery when necessary. It has 190000 miles on it!

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

JohnMurphy on August 1, 2023

Engine blew

Well the AC leaks onto the floor started whenI bought the car at 55,000 dollars and now the timing belt went at 82,000 miles im gonna have to junk it or putnew engine in... Do not buy this c**p box

Doodoo Baggins on August 30, 2021

Reliability from a trusted manufacturer!

It’s 2021 and I have an 08. If you’re looking for power ,excitement and styling, don’t get your hopes up. But if it’s dependability you’re in the market for, I say go for it! First let’s start w the cons: I can barely reach the radio It struggles to accelerate (126hp) The body roll is real And the highway noise is unacceptable Pros: Trusted manufacturer Very comfortable (I’m 5-10” and even fit in back seat without issue) Lots Of cargo space (13.4cubic ft trunk w 60/40 seats) Amazing mpg (35+) Great visibility Great in winter Retains value (Mine has 162k miles and still worth $3800

kewang X on April 4, 2021

It is with suitable size for me. Neither too big or too small.

I really enjoyed my car. It is a compacted green car. It runs very smoothly and does very well in my daily life. Easy to drive.

Jon L on April 3, 2021

Reliability and taken care of

Very reliable, only complaint is car paint is weak

Amanda C on April 3, 2021

It's reliable for short trips

Reliable for short distances but would be worried to take it on a long road trip because of past maintenance issues. Brakes, battery, and engine have all be troublesome

Kathy M on April 3, 2021

Love n My Toyota Corolla!!

I bought my Toyota Corolla new. I have not had any problems whatsoever with it. I have driven it back and forth from Florida to Texas and Texas to North Carolina. Other than everyday maintenance this car just keeps going. I only have 85000 miles on it at this time.

Lida C on April 1, 2021

Needs better security. A loud alarm would be better..

Need more space inside but it still gets about 35 mph on a road trip. Good car for the money. Will continue to drive it.

Ariana G on March 27, 2021

Very reliable compact car

It is very reliable, also gets good gas mileage, it drives smoothly, there is plenty of space inside the car as well as the trunk

Sarah H on March 26, 2021

It is mine. It has a good amount of features even if it does not have them all.

It is reliable. It is run for at least 10 years. There are still more miles on it. It would still require more maintenance now that it is old. I wouldn't be able to take it on a road trip any time soon, but so far it is running smoothly.

Meredith S on March 22, 2021

Reliable and user friendly.

I do not mind my Toyota Corolla. It gets me to point A to point B. It performs as well as I need it to. It is always reliable. I have never been uncomfortable driving and the standard features are easy to use. I would purchase a Toyota Corolla again if given the opportunity.

Kyle S on March 22, 2021

Solid car for commuting or long distance trips

I have really enjoyed the car since purchasing it 3 years ago. The gas mileage is very solid and the it handles well. It does not drive too well in the snow though. In terms of reliability, I have added about 40k miles in the past 3 years or so and it has only required the standard level of maintenance. It really is a very solid car and I would recommend it to others.

Linda M on March 20, 2021

Nothing special for me needed a car.

Reliability rates at a 5 out of 10. . Performance the same. Problems are sensors for lights, they come on automatically when I turn car on and stay on as long as car is running even if I try to turn them off. Space inside of car is not enough leg room for front and back seat passengers at same time.

Elizabeth M on March 19, 2021

I have not had any major problems in the five years that I've had this vehicle. Regular maintenance works wonders. It gets me where I need to go; from the store every day and even trips out of state. It's moderately comfortable with basic features, but was also incredibly affordable with superb financing through the dealership.

The Corolla is a very sturdy vehicle. Not finicky or difficult to drive.

Victor I on March 15, 2021

The Toyota Corolla is a survivor.

I bought my Toyota as a secondhand salvaged car. However, it functions with little to no problems whatsoever. It is fantastic money saver, with the insane mileage it can get with just a single tank of gas.

Jane J on March 7, 2021

Affordable, comfortable and dependable. Low maintenance.

It has been an excellent, low maintenance, dependable vehicle. No problems in 135,000 miles. Very comfortable.

Lucinda F on March 7, 2021

It is a sturdy car. I love the manuel.

Toyota had recalls.I do enjoy the car, it is sturdy

Andrea F on February 28, 2021

Reliable Toyota Corolla S

I have really liked our toyota corolla. We have had a few problems with the front of the car. The bumper doesn't like to stay on and our grill fell off. It's been a reliable car though.

Lisa K on February 28, 2021

It will last you a long time but it is not going to impress anyone.

The crevice were the roof of the car meets the front passenger window leaks. The car feels small. It is a utilitarian car, it is not built for comfort or joy, it is just a means to get around.

Alicia A on February 25, 2021

A great car to fit a working person's daily needs.

The only problem I have ever had with this car was the ac compressor went out. It gets super gas mileage. It is a simple car without a lot of technology which is what I wanted. I have driven it to work for around 6 years and no problems! It serves my needs very well!

Regina K on February 23, 2021

Other people should know that it has good miles to the gallon.

I like that it runs well. I wish it was a newer vehicle, but overall it is a great car.

Barbara H on February 14, 2021

Very good reliable car. Easy to maintain.

Toyota is a very good car. This car will last a very long time. Car is very comfortable to ride in. This car is very easy to drive. This car is small enough to get into small parking spaces. This car is easy to drive due to its size being small. The paint on these cars are is very good and will last forever.

Adam B on February 14, 2021

It is hard to start when the engine is hot but not on a hot day the engine must be started and stopped after a few minutes for it to have a hard time starting.

What I like about my toyota is that is has a good air conditioner. But what I dislike is that it has hard time starting up when the engine is hot. I love the fact that it has never stranded me.

Connie A on February 14, 2021

Toyota reliability: as long as you do oil changes long lasting car

No problems, has been a reliable vehicle, No bells and whistles except cruise control which I use on long trips a lot. Comfort is medium not ultra plush but comfortable enough, I've been in 2 accidents with it and no serious injuries because I feel the car is well built and took the hits well

Angelica T on February 13, 2021

It works, it runs beyond amazement.

Love how great it runs. It has not had any issues. Sense I have got this car I have been at a up high satisfaction.

Bonnie H on February 11, 2021

My car is very reliable after have it for 10 years.

I love my car. It is easy to park because it is small. Gas mileage is wonderful. In the last 10 years, I have only had to repair my car one time.

Destiny A on February 8, 2021

It doesn't do too well when the roads are wet so takeoff slowly from stop lights

Gets me where I need to go safely. Everything works and it's very reliable.

Jonathan Z on February 6, 2021

It's a very reliable car that hasn't given me any problems, apart from the occasional flat tire.

It's reliable. It's pretty good on gas mileage. Features are basic. It's getting old.

Holden H on February 4, 2021

Toyota Corolla Review and Summary

This is a great car. I have over 200,000 miles on it and I have only had a couple major maintenance repairs. I have only had to change the alternator, battery, and a couple spark plugs. It is very comfortable, and has good vision on the road. It has Bluetooth a good stock radio and is smooth to drive.

Cristina D on February 1, 2021

Great mileage and can never go wrong buying Toyota.

I love the mileage I get on my vehicle. It's the right size for me because most of the time I drive alone. But when I have passengers they tell me it's very comfortable. The one thing I love the most is that it's a Toyota my family mostly will buy Toyota brand because of its resale value. It's also a very dependable car has many great reviews online. It looks very modern and I love the dark gray upholstery over all I would buy Toyota for my next vehicle.

Peter R on January 31, 2021

Good performance and reliability.

Does not have rear view camera to see behind vehicle or crossing in back of vehicle - good Audio system and original equipment.

Nora M on January 30, 2021

The air conditioning is insanely powerful, stronger than any other car I've been in.

It runs well and doesn't require too much gas, and has amazing air conditioning. It's not super new though, so it doesn't have a more advanced radio or phone compatibility, but it wasn't too expensive. It's a dark color so it can get hot in the summer.

Ashlee R on January 29, 2021

Great, reliable car that will not let you down

This vehicle is highly reliable for daily commute. It drives super smooth and has great gas mileage. It comfortably seats 4 people. The cargo area is also nice and spacious. The seats could be more comfortable. The look both inside and outside the car is very nice. On the freeway, the driving is as smooth as butter.

chris t on January 29, 2021

Toyota Corolla is a very safe and reliable car to own.

Very reliable vehicle. Low maintenance. Good gas mileage. Compact, easy to drive in areas with small spaces.

Phuong T on January 27, 2021

I like that my car has a simple design in my opinion.

My car gets the job done and takes me where I need to go. Also I do not need a lot of money to refill my gas.

Adrienne J on January 27, 2021

The most important is that the Lord help me to buy it without good credit although I had a co-signer.

I really like my Corolla because it's reliable. It also does not burn a lot of gas like other vehicles. The Lord help me to buy it years ago and helps it running on.

Chance V on January 25, 2021

The Gas mileage, dependability. It will never break down on you.

My car is the best car you can get. It is the most reliable car i have ever had. It has lasted me over 5 years and has 200,000 miles on it and it's still going strong.

Ann D on January 20, 2021

It is quite a good and smooth car considering the 200, 000 miles it has on it.

My car is small and compact, it is gray and I feel like it is an amazing car. It has over 200, 000 miles on it but still runs amazing and smoothly. It cannot really handle bumpy roads though. It is comfortable to drive in as well.

Denise S on January 15, 2021

Black Toyota Corolla, great for commuters.

Kelly C on January 12, 2021

It is very reliable and great on gas!

I love the size and gas mileage of my car. It is very reliable but I would like to have a built in nav system.

Kyle D on January 11, 2021

It will last for a long time. It is reliable and good for traveling

It has great mileage but looks outdated. I would just like to upgrade the interior

Bert C on January 10, 2021

Toyota Corolla: An ergonomists' dreamcar

The most reliable car I have ever owned. 180k miles going and still no major issues that have cropped up. Good fuel mileage, gets the job done. Exceedingly cost efficient.

Lindsay D on January 3, 2021

Highlight and interesting detail about Toyota Corolla is the gas per mileage.

Due to the year, needs an upgrade with the exterior and interior. The radio is pretty much old and can also use an upgrade. What I love about my vehicle is the quality of gas saving. $10 will put you exactly on half a tank of gas. The size of the vehicle is perfect. Although a sun roof would be nice added touch.

Tim F on January 1, 2021

Runs great and low mileage. The air conditioning works fantastic.

No power anything or keyless entry. It has low mileage which is a plus, runs great. Too small at times, wanted an SUV.

Paula A on December 31, 2020

It is definitely economic and easy to use and maneuver.

I wish it had a back up screen to show how far I am backing out and also more compartments. I also wish the air flow would be a bit better and gas was more efficient.

Shanna B on December 24, 2020

Toyota Corolla four door sedan

The car gets good gas mileage.its a sedan.we have no problems with the car. O like to drive to the pool and down the street from the house.it's a very fast car.I love it a lot.it's a decent one to use here every day for me.the car is called Corolla and it's tiny and quick and comfy inside it.

Rachel E on December 22, 2020

It's been a reliable vehicle no matter what the weather has been.

It's starting to need a lot of work that needs to be done which will be costly. It's been a great car though and has lasted a long time.

Chandler P on December 22, 2020

Definitely worth the money.

I have no problems with my Toyota. It is a safe and reliable vehicle. It has lasted me for ten years. And I have had zero problems from this vehicle. I would definitely recommend a Toyota vehicle to friends or family or anyone looking to find a vehicle that they're going to get their money's worth.

eldona m on December 13, 2020

It needs very few repairs in the last ten years, just regular maintenance

Its dependable. I can handle it easily, its gets great gas mileage, I can park it almost anywhere

Betty L on December 13, 2020

Love my Toyota. It is a sport type. Red

Love how it drives. Love how it takes curves. Very nice car. It's my favorite color. It's Red. It's comfortable And clean.

Hannah M on December 8, 2020

I like that it is reliable and safe. I dislike the fact that it doesn't have certain features, like an auxiliary input or a sunroof. I also would prefer if it had leather interior.

It has its issues, but it always gets you where you need to go.

Liliane F on December 5, 2020

Great on gas and very few major repairs need to be done.

I love that is good on gas and miles. I dislike the face that my sunroof is now starting to leak.

Alex Showalter

Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.