I can put your mind at ease and do it for less than $25,000. A lot less than $25,000. Try $22,455, in fact.

The car I have in mind is Toyota's 2009 Corolla XRS. It's a treat to drive and is surprisingly luxurious and well-equipped. It also has an impeccable fit and finish inside. In fact, you'd never know you were driving a compact.

And guess what? It's pretty cool to look at, too.

Now, a little truth in disclosure:

I was introduced to the new model months ago at a press event. I liked it then, but I wasn't nearly as enthusiastic about it as I am now, after having lived with it for a week.

That's because the Corolla's charm is that it grows on you -- and that's a good thing. I've discovered some cars that "wow" you on the first glance aren't always winners when you calm down and take another look.

A replacement for the modestly styled, well-built but unspectacular 2008 version, the new Corolla is as different from its predecessor as night is from day.

There's the 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine backed by a five-speed automatic transmission. It is rated at 22 mpg city/30 highway.

Another strong point: There is a lot of standard equipment. The five-speed automatic has electric power steering, vehicle traction and stability control, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution, air conditioning and an audio system with MP3 player.

Also standard is a tilt and telescoping leather steering wheel and digital clock.

As a result of this long list, about the only major option that my car had was an audio system upgrade and a "power package" that included power windows and remote keyless entry.

All of that brought the final tab to $22,455.

There still were several things I would like to see changed on the Corolla, mainly the steering system. The electric power steering produces a numb, off-center feeling that requires small corrections from time to time to keep the car on course.

Car companies have become enamored of such systems because they save gasoline when compared with hydraulic systems. While there are some good electric steering systems out there, most are simply too wobbly for my taste.

Also, the engine gets noisy and strains when asked to accelerate quickly. During normal driving, however, the car feels fine -- even perky at times.

Corolla also has a terrific interior with brushed aluminum on the center console, legible gauges, controls in places where you would expect to find them, and decent ergonomics.

One of the biggest positives of the new Corolla is its roomy back seat. It's one of the few compacts in which I actually could use two car seats in the back and still have room for a child in between. Kudos, Toyota!