The Toyota Corolla has been the king of consumer-friendly vehicles since it hit the market all the way back in 1968. This small Japanese sedan arrived on American shores in an age when massive muscle cars still ruled the streets. But while it may not have looked like much, it became an instant hit with drivers searching for an affordable and efficient alternative to the gas-guzzling models of the day. Increasing environmental awareness and the gas crisis of the early 1970s solidified the Corolla’s position in the market, a position that it still holds today. The 2023 Toyota Corolla remains an amazing choice for anyone who wants to keep their transportation costs down.
Although the SUV continues to generate excitement and grow in popularity, Toyota has proven that the four-door sedan can still be an appealing vehicle with a penchant for style. The Corolla sports an aerodynamic design that’s certain to build excitement at dealerships. It also offers plenty of options, including a hatchback, a hybrid, and even a high-speed all-wheel drive rally car! Many of the adjustments made for the new model year have to do with technology and the vehicles’ powertrain, which we’ll be examining as we get further into the Corolla.
Less Expensive Than the Competition
They say that you get what you pay for. But Toyota has always seemed to defy this saying, somehow managing to offer incredibly reliable vehicles for lower-than-average prices. The starting price for the 2023 Toyota Corolla sits at $21,550, which is lower than the compact cars from competitors. For instance, the Mazda3 starts at $22,550, and the popular Honda Civic begins at no less than $25,050. Just as impressively, the 2023 Toyota Corolla hybrid is one of the least expensive electrified vehicles on the market, with a base price of just $22,800. It is difficult to argue against a car that delivers so much for so little. However, Toyota doesn’t stop there and gives you more for your money in every way possible.
Economical Powertrain Options
Just as it did when the brand made a significant impact during the energy crises of the 1970s, Toyota has always strived to offer vehicles that go farther for less money. No matter which Corolla you choose, you can rest assured that it will get exceptional fuel economy. With the cost of fuel being rather unpredictable in recent history, this should come as a relief to many consumers.
The 2023 Toyota Corolla’s standard engine offering is a 2.0L four-cylinder, generating 169 hp. This engine powers both the Corolla sedan and the Corolla hatchback and is paired with a continuously variable transmission for superior fuel economy. However, unlike a traditional CVT, Toyota includes a physical first gear for remarkable acceleration. Whether you choose the sedan or the hatchback, this powertrain is rated for 32 MPG in the city and 41 MPG on the highway.
The Corolla sedan is also available in a hybrid version. This incredibly efficient car uses the same 1.8L hybrid engine as the famed Toyota Prius, stretching the fuel economy to 53 MPG in the city and 46 MPG on the highway. While you might not expect it, the Corolla hybrid is also available with electric all-wheel drive for additional traction in bad weather. However, this option will reduce fuel economy to 51 MPG in the city and 44 MPG on the highway.
Some drivers might not like the fact the 2023 Corolla is no longer available with a six-speed manual transmission, but the fuel savings from both of these economical powertrains is certainly enough to make up for its absence. Plus, if you really want a high-performance model, the all-new GR Corolla is more than up to the task with its manual transmission, all-wheel drive system, and stunning 300-hp turbocharged engine. While its estimated fuel economy of 24 MPG combined may not live up to the Corolla name, you’ll probably be having so much fun you won’t care.
A Tantalizing Interior
It’s a common assumption that choosing a vehicle that’s big on practicality and affordability means sacrificing comfort and amenities. When it comes to the 2023 Toyota Corolla, this is certainly not the case. This year, in particular, saw a fair amount of upgrades to the interior to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience behind the wheel. The now-standard eight-inch infotainment screen is placed in an upright position on the dashboard, putting it at eye-level with the steering wheel so drivers can maintain their focus on the road ahead. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility is included, as well as a Wi-Fi hotspot and SiriusXM.
If you don’t mind paying a little for some high-end extras, the option to do so is there. Additional features like ambient lighting, heated front seats, and dual-zone climate control make any commute thoroughly enjoyable. An upgraded JBL stereo system is also available, which is ideal for drowning out the worries of the world. While the 2023 Corolla may be incredibly affordable, Toyota has not cut any corners with its best-selling compact car.
Driving Assistance and Safety
While gas prices continue to ebb and flow like the tides, Toyota’s long-standing commitment to consumer needs has remained unchanged since the first Corolla. In an age where safety and driver-assistance features are growing more advanced every year, Toyota makes them more accessible for the driver on an average income.
The 2023 Toyota Corolla is packed with a variety of standard safety and driver-assistance features as part of the Safety Sense 3.0 suite. Toyota’s Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection warns the driver before a potential front-end collision and can automatically apply the brakes to prevent an accident. Toyota’s Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control monitors traffic to ensure a safe following distance, allowing for proper reaction time. It is combined with Lane Tracing Assist to help keep you in your lane.
Automatic High Beams and Road Sign Assist are two more beneficial aids to visibility. However, Proactive Driving Assist is the crown jewel. This advanced system monitors your surroundings and provides gentle braking and steering inputs to help take corners and avoid traffic and obstructions on the road. It’s remarkable that Toyota has made more features standard and less out of reach of the average consumer. Safety shouldn’t come with a price tag, and the 2023 Toyota Corolla embraces this concept.
The Tradition of Consumer-Friendly Perfection Continues
While many manufacturers claim to have the best interests of consumers in mind, few demonstrate it in their products. Toyota continues to be the standard bearer for consumer-friendly cars that retain their value for many years. In this proud tradition, the 2023 Toyota Corolla might be one of the crowning achievements for the brand.
Not only does the Corolla sell at a price that fits the income of the average consumer, but the available powertrains carry on Toyota’s long and celebrated reputation for going farther on less fuel. In an era where advanced safety and driver-assistance features are commonly restricted to high trim levels or expensive packages, Toyota gives consumers what they need as standard equipment. It does this not because the brand wants to sell its vehicles in high quantities but because it’s the right thing to do.
