The EPA hasn’t rated all-wheel drive hybrid models yet, but we’ll update this space when that information becomes available.
We tested hatchbacks with the automatic and manual and they earned 40 and 36 mpg, respectively. The Corolla hatchback is rated up to 32 mpg city and 42 highway. The hybrid we tested earned 56 mpg on our 75-mph fuel-economy route the Corolla XSE sedan we tested saw 41 mpg. Comparatively, the government estimates the nonhybrid 169-hp 2.0-liter engine will earn up to 40 mpg highway. The EPA estimates the front-drive hybrid will earn 53 mpg city and 52 highway. 2023 Toyota Corolla Gets New AWD Hybrid TrimsĪlong with a fuel-efficient four-cylinder, the Corolla sedan offers an immensely thrifty hybrid model.While neither Corolla body style had impressive results in our 70-mph-to-zero braking test-requiring between 174 and 183 feet-their brake pedals were dependable and natural-feeling. Still, compared with athletic and engaging rivals, such as the Mazda 3 and Volkswagen Golf, the Corolla's progressive steering is satisfactory but not exemplary. The Corolla SE and XSE further separate themselves with a stiffer sport-tuned suspension and the latter's larger 18-inch wheels (everything else rides on either 15- or 16-inch rims). Their controlled body motions also provide better agility than previous iterations. Both the Corolla sedan and the hatchback have a pleasant ride quality that adequately isolates all but the worst bumps. Unfortunately, hard acceleration produced coarse engine sounds that diminished their refinement. The Toyota twins were quite prudent around town and steady on the highway, however. Our tests of the Corolla SE hatchback and the Corolla XSE sedan proved that even the strongest engine doesn't deliver adequate acceleration. While all hatchbacks share that same powertrain, the sedan also offers a hybrid powertrain. An optional six-speed manual is available for SE, and Apex SE models. The Corolla uses a 169-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder that sends power to the front wheels through a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
The list includes 18-inch wheels, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, front sport seats, and an 8.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Thankfully, the Corolla SE sedan still comes standard with plenty of features to keep us satisfied. We'd happily check that box, even though it voids the option packages that are otherwise available with the standard continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Along with a tauter suspension that makes it nicer to drive than the regular setup, it's available with a manual transmission. Finally, the base L trim has been removed, leaving LE models as the new entry-level Corolla. Corolla hatchbacks have a redesigned grille, LED headlights, and rear bumper with chrome accents. The SE and XSE models also get a new rear diffuser and fresh 18-inch Gloss Graphite wheels. Every Corolla receives minor visual tweaks like LED daytime driving lights and redesigned headlights for the SE, XSE, and XLE. The XSE and XLE now use a redesigned 7.0-inch gauge cluster all models get an updated 4.2-inch cluster. A new 8.0-inch infotainment screen replaces smaller displays on all Corollas as standard equipment. The 139-hp 1.8-liter sold with the L, LE, and XLE trims has been replaced by the 169-hp 2.0-liter previously only available with SE, XSE, and Apex. Corolla Hybrid models gain SE and XLE trim levels, while all-wheel drive is now optional for Hybrid SE and LE trims. Toyota makes significant trim-level and powertrain changes to the Corolla for 2023. 7 Toyota Corolla STARTING AT: $22,100 What's New for 2023?