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Toyota Corolla Hybrid

Behind the Wheel of the Popular 2021 Toyota Corolla Sedan

December 14, 2020 by admin 2 Comments


Toyota’s strong-selling Corolla gains an Apex edition.


2021 Toyota Corolla


The Toyota Corolla is the world’s best-selling model of all time. Thus, it truly needs no introduction. That said, the current iteration of Toyota’s compact car has seen some changes in recent years, including its first-ever hybrid model. Our review covers the gas-powered Corolla sedan. A Corolla hatchback is also available.


2021 Toyota Corolla


Toyota prices the 2021 Corolla from $19,925 to $28,210, plus a $955 destination charge. Eight trims are available: L, LE, SE, SE Nightshade, SE Apex Edition, XLE, XSE, and XSE Apex Edition. A Corolla Hybrid LE is marketed separately.

The Corolla seats five and comes with front-wheel drive. Customers have a choice of two engines paired with a continuously variable transmission. A 6-speed manual is available on select trims.

Now in its second year, the Corolla gains an Apex Edition, which layers over the SE and XSE trims. The Apex Edition comes with updated suspension changes, a body kit, and special 18-inch wheels. Other changes include adding Android Auto smartphone compatibility and two airbags. Most trims now include blind-spot monitoring with rear-cross traffic alert or make it available within a package upgrade.


2021 Toyota Corolla


Exterior

Not too long ago, the subcompact sedan market was dominated by a host of anonymous-looking models. At the time, customers didn’t seem to care much what their vehicles looked like – more important to them was the price, efficiency, and functionality.

But the times are a-changing and what customers accepted back then no longer applies today. These days, shoppers expect at least a modicum of styling inside and out. Happily, the Corolla goes beyond the basics to deliver a look that closely aligns with the larger and midsize Camry sedan, itself a former “anonymous” sedan.

The gaping grille on the Corolla makes for a bold statement as do the standard LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, and LED accent lights. This “cut above” look doesn’t end there with enough body sculpting and character lines present to lift the look considerably.

From the rear, the Corolla has standard LED tail and LED stop lights. A standard exhaust port gives way to twinned ports on some models, including with our XSE tester.

As for the wheels, only the base model comes with standard 15-inch steel covered wheels (16 inches on the LE). Most other trims have alloy wheels, measuring 16 inches on the XLE to 18 inches everywhere else.

The list of standard features includes power-controlled side mirrors, intermittent wipers, and the LED lighting array. Move up through the trim ranks and Toyota adds various color elements, including black-painted sport side rocker panels and a rear spoiler. Color-keyed elements, including the grille, side mirrors, and door handles are evident. A power tilt-and-slide moonroof and an adaptive front lighting system are also available.


2021 Toyota Corolla
2021 Toyota Corolla


Interior

The EPA classifies the 2021 Corolla as a midsize sedan. The way the government measures interiors causes some models to ease into the next higher class. We still classify the Corolla as a compact model, but it is a roomy one at that.

With space for five, the Corolla is most useful for four. But that doesn’t mean a fifth individual cannot fit. It’s just a bit too cozy for adults, although three youngsters may find the space manageable. Just watch your head when accessing or egressing the rear 60/40 split fold-down seat – you’re likely to bump it if you’re not careful. At least the legroom is tolerable for its class.

We credit Toyota with designing a cabin that’s straightforward and uncluttered. On some models, the dashboard is two-tone, while on others a singular color with contrast stitching is evident. You’ll find the usual and expected amounts of plastics inside, but most are relegated to out-of-the-way places. In other uses, such as the brightwork trim, the look is pleasing.

The list of standard features includes full power accessories, air conditioning, a tilt-and-telescopic steering column, and fabric-trimmed seats with manual control. Move up through the trim ranks and premium fabric or imitation leather seats can be found. In some cases, the driver seat is power controlled and heated.

Other upgrades include bronze interior trim stitching, keyless entry with push-button start, modified instrumentation, and a leather-trimmed steering wheel. We’re fans of push-button start although we do acknowledge some of our readers still prefer a key-flicked ignition experience.


2021 Toyota Corolla

Tech

We like Toyota’s attention to detail, including in all things technology. Even the base “L” trim sees a decent collection of useful features, beginning with a 7-inch touchscreen display. That’s a nice departure from the tiny 5-inch screens that once dominated the segment.

Other standard features include six speakers; Alexa Auto, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay compatibility; Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Connect, one USB media port, and one USB charge port. Toyota was behind the curve in smartphone compatibility, but it ironed things out with Apple to make CarPlay universally available and that’s a great thing!

Move away from the base model and the Corolla comes with an 8-inch touchscreen display and satellite radio. Depending on the trim or package available, other features available include additional USB ports, navigation, and a 9-speaker JBL audio system. Our test model had the JBL system and we found the sound dispersion and quality quite good for this small sedan. As for navigation, we didn’t use it as CarPlay took us where we needed to go. The same can be said for most smartphone owners as the driving direction apps are quite useful…and free!

Another feature that’s available on some trims is Qi-compatible wireless smartphone charging. This is one of our favorites too as it allows for a smartphone to charge without a cord. Located at the base of the center stack, the pad is easily accessible and entirely useful. It “read” our Apple phone even with a case in place; your experience may be different from ours, however.


See Also — First-Ever Toyota Corolla Hybrid Debuts


Safety

Toyota takes second place to no one regarding safety equipment. In fact, the Toyota brand typically offers more standard driver-assist features than a host of luxury brands. Thus, tremendous value is baked in when considering most any Toyota model, including the Corolla. Moreover, Toyota models typically score high in federal and industry crash tests. To wit, the Corolla is an IIHS “Top Safety Pick” as well as a 5-star recipient from the NHTSA. Those scores are laudable and precisely where we’d expect this small sedan to land.

As for the 2021 Corolla sedan, this one comes with the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 Package. It’s represented by several standard features, including automatic high beams, a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, full-speed range radar (adaptive) cruise control, lane tracing assist, and road sign assist. The last feature has become one of our favorites, although Apple CarPlay also lists the local speeds where available.

The only feature not available with the base model is blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. This one is standard on select trims or is available on certain other trims as part of a package upgrade. We find it useful, especially on the interstate where long trips beckon as well as on congested local highways. When you’re tired, it is simply easier to sideswipe someone.

In all, we found the Toyota safety package a useful enhancement for drivers. Our only fault, if you can call it that, is the system’s sensitivity when touching lines wherever the road curves or the side markers suddenly change. In these situations, the system gives three quick beeps, which is a decent way to warn drivers, but a bit irritating at times when you know you’ve stayed in your lane. Or at least you think you did!


See Also — Delicious Design: 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback


Performance

Toyota gives Corolla shoppers a choice of two four-cylinder engines. The standard 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine powers the L, LE, and XLE trims. This one makes 139 horsepower and 126 pound-feet of torque. We’ve driven Corollas with the base engine numerous times and it does what it needs to do and in an efficient manner.

Powering the other trims is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. This one raises the performance quotient considerably, supplying an output of 169 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. That’s a respectable amount for a naturally aspirated engine. Equally important, it supplies enough oomph to make a difference.

Our XSE edition with the upgraded engine features an independent MacPherson strut front suspension with a stabilizer bar and a multi-link system with a rear stabilizer bar. In fact, that’s the arrangement on all Corolla models, except on the Apex trims where increased stabilizer bar spring rates and coil spring rates prevail. All models feature power-assisted ventilated disc brakes up front and solid disc brakes on the rear wheels. An automatic electric parking brake is standard and that’s a feature we like.

The Corolla doesn’t deliver excitement, at least not on the models we’ve driven. A sport mode on the XSE supplied a slight change in engine behavior, but with a CVT present, it wasn’t profound. The Corolla’s electric-assisted steering is light to the touch. Its handling is about as engaging as you’d expect for this segment. In other words, the Corolla excels in all things efficiency, delivers a fair ride, and has firm brakes. Other attributes include efficiency – it gets up to 40 mpg and that’s with the larger engine under the hood.

All told, we think this is a recipe for success. The Corolla strikes a strong balance in all the attributes expected of a small car. Further, its current design brings in welcome elements that stray far from the Corolla’s econobox routes.


2021 Toyota Corolla


Competitive Set

The compact car segment may not have the sales cache it once did, thanks to crossovers consuming a significant chunk of the overall market. Even so, the manufacturers that are still in the mix act like demand is still strong and continue to overhaul and tweak these models — that’s good news for consumers looking for a bargain on a fresh model.

Gone from the market are such models as the Ford Focus, Dodge Dart, and the Chevrolet Cruze. The Mitsubishi Lancer is another model that has exited the segment. Thus, your only choice are the models supplied by a “foreign” manufacturer.

Besides the Corolla, other models to consider include the Honda Civic, Nissan Sentra, Mazda3, Volkswagen Jetta, Kia Forte, Hyundai Elantra, and the Subaru Impreza. Each model comes with front-wheel drive, except the Impreza which has standard all-wheel drive. The Impreza has an edge, which translates into a high-performance WTI model.


Our Recommendation


Start your search with any trim beyond the base “L” and you’ll find a nice long list of standard features. We know price-conscious shoppers want to keep their costs below $25,000 and that’s not difficult to do.

For $400 over the base model, the LE trim supplies keyless entry, automatic climate control, and an 8-inch touch-screen display. But if you want the larger engine, then start your search with the SE. Keep in mind that a 6-speed manual gearbox is standard; you’ll pay extra for the CVT.

Although not tested, the SE Apex Edition with its bronze and black side rocker panels and rear diffuser accent, 18-inch black flow-formed aluminum wheels, and lower sport-tuned suspension comes in around $26,000 before discounts. That’s just $800 more than our test XSE trim, which had 18-inch machine-alloy wheels, imitation leather seats, and heated front seats to show for it. Consider the Apex if a more drivable Corolla is your desire.


2021 Toyota Corolla Sedan Specifications


Toyota 2021 Corolla Sedan
Segment Compact Sedan
Price Range $19,925 to $28,210
Destination Charge $955
Engine No. 1 1.8-liter, I4
Horsepower 139 hp @ 6,100 rpm
Torque (lb.-ft.) 126 lb.-ft. @ 3,900 rpm
Transmission CVT
Engine No.2 2.0-liter, I4
Horsepower 169 hp @ 6,600 rpm
Torque (lb.-ft.) 151 lb.-ft. @ 4,400 rpm
Transmission 6-speed manual or CVT
Seating 5
Curb Weight (pounds) 2,910 to 3,150
Wheelbase (inches) 106.3
Length (inches) 182.3
Width (inches) 70.1
Height (inches) 55.9 or 56.5
Head room (f,r…inches) 38.3, 37.1
Leg room (f,r…inches) 42.3, 41.4
Shoulder room (f,r…inches) 54.8, 54.8
Hip room (f,r…inches) 53.0, 43.9
Storage (cubic feet) 13.1
Gross vehicle weight (pounds) NR
Towing (pounds) NR
Payload (pounds) NR
Fuel Regular
Fuel Tank (gallons) 13.2
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway/combined) 28/35/31 to 31/40/34
Manufacturing Plant Blue Springs, Mississippi

See Also — At a Glance: 2020 Toyota Corolla Sedan

Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: compact car, CVT, front-wheel drive, sedan, Toyota, Toyota Corolla, Toyota Corolla Hybrid, TOYOTA SAFETY SENSE

Efficient Hatchback:
2019 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid

July 29, 2019 by admin 5 Comments

The Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid is available in three trims.

We’ve passed the tipping point where crossovers and similar people movers are outselling cars across the United States. Truly, the majority of customers shopping for a new vehicle prefers a utility vehicle or pickup truck to the coupes, sedans, and wagons that once represented the car market.

An important sub-set of the market are hybrid electric vehicles, popularized by the Toyota Prius, but also offered by a variety of manufacturers, including Hyundai. Indeed, Hyundai has been producing hybrid vehicles about as long as have Toyota and Honda, but it wasn’t until 2011 that the first Sonata Hybrid rolled out stateside.

Today, Hyundai has a lot more to show for it than its midsize Sonata Hybrid. Beginning in 2017, the automaker released its Ioniq line of electrified vehicles, which now includes hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric variants. Auto Trends has tested two: the standard hybrid and the electric variant, the latter just briefly at a Hyundai media event in 2017.

The Ioniq line takes aim at the Toyota Prius, which is comprised of standard and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. Toyota doesn’t have an all-electric Prius, although it does offer a fuel-cell Mirai, which competes with the Hyundai Nexo fuel-cell electric vehicle.

As for this review, our model is the 2019 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid Limited. The Ioniq is a compact sedan, whose nearest competitor beyond the Prius is the all-new 2020 Toyota Corolla Hybrid.



2019 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid Overview

Hyundai offers the 2019 Ioniq Hybrid in Blue ($22,400), SEL ($24,950), and Limited ($28,550) trims. You’ll also add a $930 destination charge to this front-wheel-drive model with room for five.

Here are the highlights of the 2019 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid:

1. Standard, loaded, and over-the-top trims.

Hyundai could have offered the Ioniq Hybrid in one trim, just like the Corolla Hybrid. Instead, you’ll find three trims: Blue, SEL, and Limited.

The Blue trim is the most efficient of the three (more about that later) and comes with standard automatic headlights, door handle approach lights, and 15-inch wheels. Other standard features include keyless entry with push-button start, a tilt-and-telescopic steering column, climate control, cloth seats, and a split-fold-down rear bench seat. Further, you’ll find full power accessories, an audio package with a 7-inch color display, and smartphone compatibility with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay included. This is no strip model as you can deduce.




The SEL trim is likely where most shoppers will start their search. This one adds heated front seats and a power-adjustable driver’s seat with adjustable lumbar support. You’ll also find such safety features as adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot detection with rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keep assist. Lastly, Hyundai adds a 7-inch LCD for the instrument panel.

At the top of the range is the Limited, which quite frankly brings in many premium features and offers the lone package option. Here, you’ll find high-definition headlights with LED accent lighting, automatic high beams, 17-inch alloy wheels, a power tilt-and-slide sunroof, and Hyundai Blue Link connectivity services.

Only the Limited trim offers the Ultimate package ($2,200). This package adds such things as dynamic bending light technology, which expands nighttime lighting as the headlights pivot slightly. You’ll also find navigation, an 8-inch color touchscreen display, an 8-speaker audio system, wireless device charging, and a cargo cover.

2. You’ll pay $3,450 more for one.

The Ioniq and Hyundai Elantra share a common platform. In fact, both models measure 106.3 inches long between the wheels. If you’re comparing hatchbacks, the Ioniq and Elantra GT are just $1,700 apart.

Averaging 55 mpg to the Elantra’s 35 mpg means huge savings at the pump. With gas costing an average of $2.65 per gallon, this means it costs $31.54 to fill an Ioniq Hybrid, while the Elantra comes in at $37.10. The hybrid has an 11.9-gallon fuel tank to the Elantra sedan’s 14.0-gallon tank.



For individuals driving 15,000 miles per year, the Elantra sedan would consume 428.57 gallons of gasoline, but just 272.73 in the hybrid. The fuel costs in the gas model would come in at $1,135.71, while the hybrid would cost $722.73. The difference is $412.98 annually, but that’s as long as gas prices hold steady.

How long will it take to recoup the extra cost of the Ioniq Hybrid over the Elantra sedan? About 8.35 years ($3,450 divided by $412.98). You’ll see a shorter recoupment period with the Elantra GT although it isn’t as efficient as the sedan.

3. Super fuel-efficient.

On paper, the Hyundai Ioniq is as fuel-efficient as they come. The standard Blue model carries an EPA rating of 57 mpg in the city and 59 mpg on the highway for a combined 58 mpg. For the other two trims, the rating comes in at 55 mpg in the city, 54 mpg on the highway, and 55 mpg combined.

These numbers are incredible and come in slightly higher than the standard-bearing Toyota Prius and its top 56 mpg rating. But what’s achieved on paper is often different in real life. Factors such as weather conditions and driving habits must be considered. Indeed, at least some of my drive time took place with the mercury approaching 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Optimum conditions for a hybrid are generally in the 70s. Cold weather can impact fuel economy too.

Like other hybrids, the Ioniq prominently posts fuel economy information on the instrument panel to get you to drive conservatively. As with every hybrid I drive, I routinely ease up on the gas pedal and ease down on the brake pedal to maximize efficiency.

My fuel economy ranged as high as 60.1 mpg, before finishing at 49.3 mpg.

On the Road

The Hyundai Ioniq is motivated by a 104-horsepower gas engine with an electric motor adding its own power as needed. Under full throttle, the Ioniq delivers a combined 139 horsepower and that’s close to the 147 horsepower of the Elantra.

Also when operating under full throttle, the Ioniq demonstrates that it isn’t merely an economy car. It isn’t especially fast, but it’ll get you down a freeway entrance ramp with confidence. Steering is light and sufficiently weighted; handling is competent. This car delivers braking with only a minimal amount of squishiness was noticed.

Unlike some competing models, Hyundai eschews a continuously variable transmission, choosing a six-speed dual-clutch automatic to route power to the front wheels. The transmission shifts smoothly while also keeping engine noise from whining.



Parting Thoughts: 2019 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid

As long as fuel prices remain relatively low (below $3 per gallon), hybrid electric vehicles remain a tough sell. But if you’re looking to conserve fuel and do your part to limit emissions, then a hybrid makes sense. Importantly, range anxiety isn’t a concern as it is with pure electric models.

Hyundai may not have the hybrid recognition of Toyota, but it is a factor in the market. Importantly, its Ioniq line gives customers a variety of options not matched by any other model. Keep in mind that the Ioniq Electric is available in select states: California, Connecticut, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Vermont, while the other two models are available everywhere Hyundai dealers are found.


2019 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid Specifications


Hyundai 2019 Ioniq Hybrid
Segment Compact hatchback
Base Sticker Price $23,330 (including a $930 destination charge)
Price as tested $31,760
Standard Engine 1.6-liter, inline-four
Horsepower 139 @ 5,700 RPMs
Torque (lb.-ft.) 109 @ 4,000 RPMs
Transmission Six-speed dual-clutch automatic
Seating 5
Curb Weight (pounds) 2,966 to 3,115
Wheelbase (inches) 106.3
Length (inches) 176.0
Width (inches) 71.7
Height (inches) 56.9
Head room (f,r…inches) 39.1, 37.4
Leg room (f,r…inches) 42.2, 35.7
Shoulder room (f,r…inches) 56.1, 55.0
Hip room (f,r…inches) 53.8, 52.9
Storage (cubic feet) 26.5
Gross vehicle weight (pounds) 3,935
Towing (pounds) NR
Payload (pounds) NR
Fuel Regular
Fuel Tank (gallons) 11.9
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway) 55/54/55 city/highway/combined
Manufacturing Plant Ulsan, South Korea


See Also — Nothing Ironic About the Hyundai Ioniq

2019 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: front-wheel drive, HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLE, Hyundai, Hyundai Elantra, Hyundai Elantra GT, Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid, Toyota Corolla Hybrid, Toyota Prius

First-Ever Toyota Corolla Hybrid Debuts

July 25, 2019 by admin 5 Comments

A Corolla Hybrid for your consideration.

For the first time ever, we have a Toyota Corolla Hybrid.

The Prius launched Toyota into the hybrid sphere, a market it has controlled for more than two decades. And no wonder: the Prius has long delivered the best combination of fuel efficiency, passenger-carrying capacity, and utility of any competing model. Quite easily, the Prius line outsells all other competitors combined, although it hardly is the only Toyota hybrid available today.

Indeed, through the intervening years, Toyota has brought its “hybrid synergy drive” system to the Camry and Avalon sedans as well as to its RAV4 and Highlander crossovers. Moreover, it has offered up to four Prius variants, although that count currently stands at two, including the brand’s first-ever plug-in hybrid.

Not a Prius

So, what’s kept Toyota from developing a Corolla hybrid? After all, the Corolla is the brand’s top-selling model in the world and one of its oldest nameplates — it dates to 1966. Well, there is one reason we haven’t seen one and that’s due to the Prius itself. Both models are similar in size, therefore offering a Corolla hybrid would only siphon Prius sales.

But everything is different now. Car sales are in a free-fall as crossovers continue to gobble up more of the market. Witness Toyota’s RAV4: it is now the brand’s best-selling model of any kind, as it even outsells the Camry, Toyota’s previous standard-bearer.

Toyota probably isn’t all that concerned about the shift as the RAV4 does offer a hybrid option. Nevertheless, with a new platform in place supporting multiple models, including the current Prius and Corolla, spreading those costs to create a Corolla Hybrid makes sense.

Trouble is, the Corolla Hybrid is simply a very nice car and will likely poach not a few Prius devotees.


The 2020 Corolla sedan launches this model’s 12th generation.

2020 Toyota Corolla Hybrid Overview

If you want a 2020 Corolla Hybrid, Toyota offers it in LE trim only. Otherwise, if you prefer trim choices, the Prius comes in L, LE, XLE, and Limited for front-wheel-drive models and LE and XLE with all-wheel drive. We’re not sure why only one trim is offered, but at least it comes well equipped.

The front-wheel-drive Corolla Hybrid shares the same 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine in the Prius and has an electric motor. A continuously variable automatic transmission routes power to the front wheels.

Here are the highlights of the 2020 Corolla Hybrid:

1. The Corolla family tripled in size for 2020.

The Corolla line now boasts three models with the sedan and hybrid debuting one year after the all-new hatchback arrived (we reviewed that model here). The hybrid, though, is only available with the sedan — you’ll have to opt for a Prius if you want a hatchback. Notably, the three models complete the launch of the Corolla’s 12th generation.

2. You’ll pay $3,000 more for one.

Sit a Corolla LE and Corolla LE Hybrid side by side and the fuel sipper will cost you three grand more. That’s a noteworthy difference, but the fuel economy edge justifies it. Indeed, when comparatively equipped the hybrid averages 52 mpg and the gas model achieves 33 mpg. Of course, that 19 mpg difference translates into savings at the pump. With gas costing an average of $2.65 per gallon, that means it costs $34.98 to fill an empty Corolla or Corolla Hybrid. Both models have a 13.2-gallon fuel tank.

Importantly, the savings mean more for people who drive their vehicles further.



For instance, for an individual driving 15,000 miles per year, they would use 454.54 gallons of gasoline in the standard sedan, but just 288.46 in the hybrid. The fuel costs in the gas model would run $1,204.53. In the hybrid, the cost is $764.42. The difference is $440.11 annually, as long as gas prices are constant. Under this scenario, the extra cost would be recouped in 6.8 years. That’s important, especially if you keep your car for at least 10 years.

Certainly, gas prices do fluctuate. When they’re low, the time to recoup is extended by months, if not years. On the contrary, higher fuel costs greatly reduce the recoupment period accordingly. In fact, if you live in California or Hawaii, you’re already paying as much a dollar a gallon more for gasoline than what consumers pay in several other states. Check out GasBuddy.com for current gas prices.

3. Equipped, not stripped.

No worries: Toyota isn’t delivering a bare-bones model with the 2020 Corolla Hybrid. Indeed, as we’ll soon find out, this model is well equipped. Unfortunately, leather seats are not available! Nor are power-controlled front seats.

That said, you’ll find the roster of exterior equipment includes LED lights (headlights, daytime running lights, tail, and stop lights), heated side mirrors, and 15-inch alloy wheels. You’ll also find keyless entry with push-button start.

Inside, Toyota supplies fabric-covered seats, automatic climate control, and a tilt-and-telescoping steering column. Among tech items, Toyota includes an 8-inch color screen, a six-speaker audio system, Bluetooth, two USB ports, Siri Eyes Free, and Apple CarPlay compatibility (sorry, still no Android Auto).

4. Safety features galore.

We’re still waiting for one more crash test score to come in, but we can tell you that the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has awarded the sedan with a Top Safety rating. On the other hand, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gives the hatchback a top 5-star rating. In like manner, we think the sedan will also garner a top score.

What sets the Toyota Corolla Hybrid apart from its competitors is its long list of standard driver-assist features. Under the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 umbrella, you’ll find a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection (with low light pedestrian detection and daytime cyclist detection); lane departure alert with steering assist and road edge detection with a sway warning system; automatic high beams; full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control (adaptive cruise control with full stop and go); road sign assist, and lane-tracing assist. This last feature keeps the car centered in the lane when adaptive cruise control is active and lane markers are visible.

You can’t find all these features with most competing models. Even some luxury cars aren’t as generously equipped or you’ll be charged extra by sometimes bundling items under a high-cost package option.


An 8-inch touchscreen display occupies the center stack.

On the Road

Fuel efficiency is the name of the game with the Corolla Hybrid and it does everything right in this department. In particular, this model earns an EPA-estimated 53 mpg in the city and 52 mpg on the highway for a combined 52 mpg. My fuel economy ranged as high as 57.2 mpg, before finishing at 56.5 mpg.

What’s outstanding besides the stellar fuel economy is that the weather conditions were extreme on most days — the temperature approached 100 degrees at the beginning of the week and stayed in the 90s until the heatwave broke the day before my lender went back. Hybrids operate best under optimum weather conditions — not too hot and not too cold — therefore, the Corolla Hybrid performed strongly regardless.

As with any electrified vehicle, I always attempt to maximize fuel economy. I don’t engage in hypermiling, but I do ease up the gas pedal and press gently on the brake at most times. You’re coaxed to do that too, as the Corolla Hybrid gives you an “eco score” at the end of your drive, which is based on your driving behavior. I scored a “71” after one drive, which is a C- in my book.

If you need to floor the gas pedal, the Corolla Hybrid complies, but the run-up to 60 mph will take you about 10 seconds. The gas engine and electric motor combine for a sedate 121 horsepower, which underscores that this sedan is geared toward efficiency. Light-to-the-touch steering and direct handling are two of its strong suits. We also like that braking has improved over earlier Priuses — they’re firmer than ever with the inherent squishiness essentially a non-factor.

Parting Thoughts: 2020 Toyota Corolla Hybrid

Like not a small number of people, I’m skeptical when it comes to vehicle electrification — the cost, supposed benefits, and in some cases range anxiety play in. But when it comes to hybrids, my thinking has modified as the vehicles offered are more efficient than ever and nice-looking too.

And that’s part of Toyota’s strategy — if you were put off by the Prius, but are a Corolla fan, then here you go. Yes, we understand that car model sales are crashing, but the Corolla Hybrid may do its part to stem the slide. That doesn’t bode well for competitors or even for the Prius, but if the whole electric car movement has you interested, a Toyota hybrid offers a logical value proposition.


The Corolla shares its hybrid system with the Prius.

2020 Toyota Corolla Hybrid Specifications


Toyota 2020 Corolla Hybrid
Segment Compact sedan
Base Sticker Price $23,880 (including a $930 destination charge)
Price as tested $24,524 (est.)
Standard Engine 1.8-liter, inline-four
Horsepower 121 @ 5,200 RPMs
Torque (lb.-ft.) 105 @ 3,600 RPMs
Transmission Continuously variable automatic
Seating 5
Curb Weight (pounds) 3,050
Wheelbase (inches) 106.3
Length (inches) 182.3
Width (inches) 70.1
Height (inches) 56.5
Head room (f,r…inches) 38.3, 37.1
Leg room (f,r…inches) TBD
Shoulder room (f,r…inches) 54.8, 54.8
Hip room (f,r…inches) 53.0, 43.9
Storage (cubic feet) 13.1
Gross vehicle weight (pounds) NR
Towing (pounds) NR
Payload (pounds) NR
Fuel Regular
Fuel Tank (gallons) 13.2
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway) 53/52/52 city/highway/combined
Manufacturing Plant Aichi, Japan
Blue hybrid badging is one distinction from the standard model.

See Also — All-Wheel-Drive Exclusive: Toyota Sienna

2020 Toyota Corolla hybrid photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: FUEL EFFICIENCY, hybrid, Toyota, Toyota Corolla, Toyota Corolla Hatchback, Toyota Corolla Hybrid, Toyota Prius, TOYOTA SAFETY SENSE

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Recent Posts

  • The Mazda CX-5 Brings a Premium Touch to the Compact Crossover Utility Vehicle Segment
  • 4 Car Upholstery Cleaning Tips
  • The 14 Brands of Stellantis
  • Peugeot May Not Return to the U.S. Market After All
  • Next-Generation Sedona Minivan Will Be Renamed the Kia Carnival
  • GM Launches BrightDrop, Its Commercial EV Brand
  • The Refreshed and Handsome
    Lexus IS 350 F Sport
  • What We Know About the All-New 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
  • The All-New and Formidable 2021 Nissan Rogue Crossover
  • Fuel-Efficiency and AWD Champion: 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
  • Midsize Performance Master: 2021 Hyundai Sonata N-Line
  • Performance Hatchback: The All-New 2021 Mazda Mazda3 Turbo!
  • NACTOY Finalists For 2021 Offer Familiar and Futuristic Choices
  • Super Trooper: Nissan Titan Pickup
  • Behind the Wheel of the Popular 2021 Toyota Corolla Sedan
  • Lucid Motors Completes Arizona Factory
  • A Robust Turbodiesel Comes to the Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  • Mid-Engine Masterpiece: The Eighth-Generation Chevrolet Corvette Stingray
  • Compact Performance:
    2021 Cadillac CT4-V
  • All-Wheel Drive Supplies the Nissan Altima With a Competitive Edge
  • Return of the Toyota Venza!
  • Lexus Brings a Convertible to the Gorgeous LC 500 Line
  • Stellantis Logo Revealed by Peugeot, Fiat Chrysler Ahead of Spring Merger
  • Preview: 2021 Nissan Rogue Crossover
  • How to Fix a Broken Rivian Vehicle
  • Cadillac Gets Most Things Right
    With the XT6 Crossover
  • The High Potency Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody Coupe
  • The All-New Chevrolet Trailblazer Forges Urban Paths
  • The Small Infiniti QX50 is Big on Tech and Engineering Features
  • Toyota Brings the TRD Treatment to the Midsize Camry Sedan
  • The Kia K5 Outclasses Most Competitors, Including the Departing Optima
  • Can the Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road Handle Tough Terrain?
  • Subaru WRX Showcases Its Performance Chops
  • Infiniti Overhauls QX80 Trims and Makes This Important Safety Feature Standard
  • Ford F-250 Super Duty and a Trail-Stomping Tremor Package
  • A Cut Above: Mazda’s Mazda3
  • The Highly Efficient Hyundai Ioniq
  • Volkswagen Atlas Revels in its Strengths
  • General Motors Deepens Partnership With Honda, Takes Stake in Nikola
  • Smart Concept: Jeep Grand Wagoneer
  • More Than an Encore: Buick Encore GX
  • Got a Recall? There’s an App for That.
  • Refreshed Nissan Titan Makes Its Case
  • BMW M235i: Not Your Typical Coupe
  • Hot Stuff: Lexus RC F Sport Coupe
  • Will the Electric Vehicle Boom Create New-Found Dependencies for Foreign Minerals?
  • Rumors? We Got Them!
  • About Bollinger Motors, EV Startup
  • Raptor Fighter: Ram 1500 TRX!
  • White Space Wonder: 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport
January 2021
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