Right, firstly I had an Auris 1.8 hybrid estate for 3 years prior to the Lexus so will include that in my comparisons.
Auris was slow struggling at times on inclines and not great for overtaking, you had to work it hard for any results. The ride was ok but still felt like a small car. 3 years motoring and it needed nothing but servicing and a new set of tyres. Overall MPG 59.
Lexus was a transformation with plenty of power and appealing looks. I had the Advance model with lots of toys and really comfortable leather seats. It's the one and only car I was proud of and received lots of positive comments. Ride was always on the firm side and you knew it was a heavy well built car. Parking on an incline made it a challenge to open the heavy doors at times, I'm not getting any younger. Overall mpg 48.
Corolla, early days and first impressions are very positive. It feels bang up to date, looks sharp in gleaming red paintwork, drives well and gives me all the space I need. I've quickly found a good seating position and instantly feel at home.
Basic Icon model with no satnav, wing mirrors you fold manually and fewer electric toys. I'm old school and don't mind that one bit. Been told it's easy to setup google maps from my mobile with bang up to date maps unlike my Lexus.
It's a lively car, feels much lighter and more nimble than the Lexus and has so much more power than the Auris. Deliberately stayed in Eco mode on a local incline with no trouble, one that I had to work hard in the Auris. Technology advancements, this has lithium hybrid batteries, have really transformed a dull 1.8 hybrid to one that gives me total confidence.
The ride is a big improvement over both the Auris and Lexus, as mentioned the Auris felt like a small car and Lexus was on the firm side but this Corolla has a big car ride and is so much smoother.
Have noticed the Corolla is much quicker to drive in electric only mode and even on the motorway travelling in traffic at a steady 65, very impressive.
So far I'm totally happy with my choice.