Toyota Blade 2006-2012 used car review

The Toyota Blade adds more power and a premium interior to the already excellent Corolla.

The Toyota Blade is a variant of the ever-popular Corolla. It combines the small hatchback with premium interior finishes, additional safety equipment and the engines normally found in the larger Camry. That means extra performance and comfort - although it comes at higher initial purchase cost and with additional fuel use. It is available only as a used import from Japan.

Although it’s based on the standard Corolla, the Blade's interior is a step above, thanks to the use of a suede-like material on the doors and dash top. The steering wheel features stereo controls and a button to control the trip computer displays set in the middle of the instrument pod’s round, back-lit dials. 

The CD player stereo, which will require a band expander to receive local stations, and climate control air-conditioning and transmission are all set high on the centre console to make them easy to reach. Storage space is plentiful - it includes two large glove boxes and an additional cubby in a triangular area under the centre console. Cupholders pop out from the far side of the dash.

The front seats are firm and supportive, thanks to large side bolsters. They are finished in a two-tone colour scheme. The rear seat space is average for a car this size - it is only wide enough for two adults and a child. A raised section in the centre position might annoy passengers seated here.

The boot is not the biggest in the class at 283 litres and two medium and two small cases are likely to fit. The rear seat can split 60/40 and fold forward to provide more space. Loads need to be lifted up and over the high lip which is a hassle with heavy items.

The Blade rides a little firmer than normal models although it's still comfortable. The car corners well with little body roll and plenty of grip. The steering lacks the feel of some sports hatches but its lightness will appeal when driving in the city. The upgraded brakes are very good.

Visibility is okay even though it has dark tints and window shades which can restrict your view. Some drivers might wish to add a reversing camera, which is not standard (although extremely common on all except base model cars). You can find a camera to fit yourself from $50 or have a professional do the job from $200.

We could not find a local tow rating for the Blade and, with its CVT transmission, it is hard to suggest it is the same as the local model, which has a more durable traditional automatic. The “Master” model has a five-speed automatic and might be more suited to towing.

The only repair is a full rebuild. It's probably better just to live with it unless the consumption is excessive. However, that would mean it is crucial to check, and top up, the oil regularly.

Both models offer more power and are heavier than the norm for this size of car so front tyre wear can be higher than expected. Make sure you check the tyres on cars you consider and add the cost of more frequent replacements to your budget.

This review covers the Toyota Blade for model years 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012.

Review vehicle supplied by Turners Cars.

*Our insurance estimates are based on a 35-year-old male with no accidents in the last two years, garaging the car in Mission Bay, Auckland. The car is not used for business and will cover 10,000km to 20,000km a year. We estimate with no option add-ons and $500 excess. Customise your estimate at Trade Me Insurance.