The Toyota Corolla is a smart pick in the small sedan class. We give it high marks for its smooth ride comfort, high-quality interior, and comprehensive list of advanced safety features. Holding it back is a smaller-than-average trunk and slow acceleration.
Kurt Niebuhr has worked in the automotive industry since 2005. A automotive photographer by trade, Kurt is now one of Edmunds' high-performance test drivers. He's driven and photographed hundreds, if not thousands, of vehicles all over the world, so Kurt's library of automotive experiences would certainly make for a good book. When not dreaming about getting his racing license or trying to buy out-of-date film for his cameras, Kurt can usually be found cursing at his 1966 Mustang.
Pros
Easy-to-use controls
Comfortable ride quality
High fuel economy
Cons
Slow acceleration
Too much road noise on the highway
Less rear headroom and storage space than most rivals
What's new
Minor styling and powertrain updates
Next-generation infotainment systems debuts
Enhanced driver assist and collision avoidance technologies
Discontinued L, XLE and Apex Edition trims
Part of the 12th Corolla generation introduced for 2020
Overview
Everybody has a Toyota Corolla story. This compact car made Toyota a household brand in the U.S. well before there was a Camry, a RAV4 or a Tacoma, making a name for itself with its dependability, fuel efficiency and practicality. Those traits continue to define the modern Toyota Corolla, which gets numerous updates for the 2023 model year.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2023 Toyota Corolla LE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.50 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
The hot news for 2023 is the introduction of the rally-inspired GR Corolla. We cover this high-performance hatchback in a separate review, so if the standard Corolla looks a bit tame to you, the GR should be exactly what you're looking for. Toyota also expands the Corolla Hybrid lineup for 2023, adding several trim levels to make that high-mileage version of the sedan more appealing. You can read all about it in our separate review of the Corolla Hybrid.
Here, we're focused on the volume-selling Corolla sedan models. In addition to styling updates, the 2023 Corolla gets some technology enhancements. Toyota has upgraded the touchscreen interface to include a lot more features than the prior system. There's available navigation, more robust voice command capabilities for many of the car's features and controls ("Hey, Toyota" is the prompt), and the ability to receive over-the-air updates for new features and upgrades. It also supports wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration.
The Corolla will also come equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, the latest driver assistance software suite from the automaker. This is a step forward from the 2022 model, which features the previous generation of the suite. Feature sets are similar, but Toyota says the system is better at detecting hazards.
Additionally, the popular LE trim level now serves as the entry point to the lineup and adds a more powerful standard engine for 2023. With the arrival of the GR Corolla, Toyota has also discontinued the Apex Edition versions this year. Fans of manual transmissions will no longer be able to get one with the Corolla SE trim level either.
Otherwise, the 2023 Corolla sedan continues as a solid pick for a small sedan. In addition to its appealing, easy-to-drive nature, the Corolla excels in the areas of reliability, efficiency and practicality. But there are also some more highly rated sedans that are worth considering, such as the Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra and Mazda 3. Read our Expert Rating below to get our test team's full report on the Corolla.
Edmunds Expert Rating
Our VerdictThe Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
Average
7.4
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
The Toyota Corolla is a smart pick in the small sedan class. We give it high marks for its smooth ride comfort, high-quality interior, and comprehensive list of advanced safety features. Holding it back is a smaller-than-average trunk and slow acceleration.
How does the Corolla drive? Acceleration is a bit underwhelming for the class (0-60 mph took 8.8 seconds in our testing), which means you'll likely be flooring the pedal when getting onto highways. Passing slower traffic requires a little extra planning and a heavy foot. Emergency braking performance is adequate, however, and braking force is easy to control for smooth stops.
We tested the Corolla XSE, which is supposed to be the sporty trim level. Alas, we quickly discovered that it's not that sporty. It leans a lot when you go around turns, and its tires don't offer much grip. But as a routine daily driver, the Corolla does just fine. It's easy to maneuver around town, and the operation of its continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is generally unobtrusive.
Comfort
7.0/10
How comfortable is the Corolla? The Corolla's ride quality is smooth over a variety of road surfaces, and the front seats are comfortable. Whether you're tall or small, there are enough adjustments and sufficient range within those adjustments to find your preferred position. We do prefer the cloth seats since they breathe better than the available simulated leather on hot days.
Road noise is ever present. It gets so loud on the highway that you'll have to crank the stereo to overcome it. The engine sounds labored under hard acceleration, but the continuously variable transmission's simulated gear changes help reduce the droning sound that is otherwise typical for a CVT.
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How’s the interior? The Corolla's interior benefits from a simple, easy-to-use layout. The controls are right where you want them and are logically grouped. The number of buttons is sensible, with just enough to be useful but not so many that it looks cluttered.
It's also easy to get in and out of the car. Front passengers have plenty of room, and the driver has clear sight lines to both the front and rear. Seating for rear passengers is tighter, especially with regard to headroom. Adult occupants' heads might be close to the roof. The Honda Civic is better in this respect.
Technology
7.5/10
How’s the tech? The Corolla's 8-inch screen feels big in the small car, and it looks sharp and modern. But it can be slow to respond; we noticed lag when using the navigation system and longish waits for responses to voice input. In the Corolla, the touchscreen doesn't integrate with other vehicle systems (like climate control and driver aids) as it does in some other Toyota models.
The shortcuts for primary functions are useful, but some of the virtual buttons are small and easy to miss with your finger in a moving car. Toyota's app and connected features — like remote start, phone as a key, and car finder — are nice to have, but all require a monthly subscription to use, and it's a shame remote start is only available through the app.
On the plus side, the Corolla Hybrid's advanced driver aids work well, although we wish blind-spot warning offered an auditory warning instead of just a visual one. The lane keeping assistance system is particularly good. It centers the car in the lane without being overly aggressive. Our test car's upgraded JBL-branded stereo is also a hit, with excellent volume and sound quality for a small car.
Storage
7.5/10
How’s the storage? The Corolla has a slightly smaller trunk (13 cubic feet) than its primary competition. It should still be enough for typical use. Unfortunately, the rear seatbacks don't fold flat with the trunk floor, which could complicate loading longer and bulkier cargo.
Storage for personal items is also on the small side. There are just enough places for your phone and the like, but many competitors give you more. On the plus side, there seems to be ample space for infant and child safety seats. The clearly marked car seat anchors should help with installation.
Fuel Economy
8.5/10
How’s the fuel economy? The EPA estimate for the Corolla XSE with the 2.0-liter engine and CVT automatic (the car we tested) is 34 mpg in combined city/highway driving. That's a strong showing from what is the most powerful engine in the Corolla lineup. The Corolla easily exceeded that estimate on our 115-mile evaluation route, returning an impressive 40.2 mpg. For the ultimate in mileage, check out the Corolla Hybrid.
Value
7.5/10
Is the Corolla a good value? The Corolla is competitive against the top entrants in the small sedan class. The cabin is upscale and is solidly put-together. Toyota's reputation for reliability figures into most shoppers' decisions, but there are other aspects to consider. You also get two years of free scheduled maintenance, which is unusual in this class.
Wildcard
7.5/10
The latest Corolla brings a fresh and modern style without unnecessary trinkets and vents. It's also more enjoyable to drive than before, but other sedans in the class are noticeably more entertaining. The overarching themes are capability and competence.
The sleek and modern styling of this current generation makes the previous Corolla seem generic by comparison. The more aggressive body treatments for the XSE trim make it even more attractive.
Which Corolla does Edmunds recommend?
The entry-level LE trim should be a solid pick for most Corolla buyers. It offers a more powerful engine for 2023 and comes with the new infotainment system and safety features, making it a good value in a compact car.
Toyota Corolla models
The 2023 Toyota Corolla comes in three trim levels: LE, SE and XSE. Keep reading for our editors' curated breakdown of each trim's features and options.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
All Corollas also come with:
Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the Corolla and the car in front)
Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
Lane departure mitigation (warns you of a lane departure when a turn signal isn't used and can automatically steer to maintain lane position)
Lane keeping system (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane)
SE
Based on the LE trim level, the SE is the sporty Corolla sedan thanks to:
18-inch dark gray alloy wheels
Sportier exterior trim accents
Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters
Sport-bolstered front seats
Proximity keyless entry with push-button start
XSE
Has the SE's sporty features along with:
LED headlights and accent lighting
Sunroof
Upgraded driver information display
Synthetic leather upholstery
Power-adjustable driver's seat
Heated front seats
Blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic warning (alerts you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while in reverse)
Some of the features listed can be added to a supporting trim as options. Additionally, a premium JBL sound system is optional on the SE and XSE trims.
Purchased LE model. Can't beat the price quality smoothness of transmission and engine quiet ride great handling. My first toyota. Have owned 5 compact cars over the years all different brands this 2022 is a winner by very large margin. The engine has plenty of power. Glad I bought a Toyota.
This update: After 6 months still feel the same about the Corolla a great car, gas mileage in … line with ratings, glad I purchased.
UPDATE: 2 years 15k miles later no problems, like the free toyota maintenance, ride and handling very good , engine has good pick up and acceleration great all around cost effective vehicle. Would purchase again.
Toyota Corolla '22 saved my husband's life in wrec
5 out of 5 stars
Emmy, 11/01/2022
2022 Toyota Corolla SE Nightshade 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT)
This review is very emotional for me but I want future customers to know the impressive manufacturing of this car that saved my husband's life. My husband unfortunately went 300ft over a cliff and rolled 9 times with this car. It is a miracle that he walked away with no broken bones and solely a head concussion. The frame of the car remained primarily in tact and the air bag feature kept … him in a bubble. I am so grateful he was in this car compared to any older model car that we owned. Once the opportunity is available and insurance is settled (highly recommend getting Gap insurance) I will be purchasing another new Corolla.
22 SE
4 out of 5 stars
David Wolleon, 03/30/2022
2022 Toyota Corolla SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT)
I really like the look of the new Corolla SE. I like that it comes with all the safety features. I don’t like the noisy engine and that it only comes with one USB port in the front. It’s a great vehicle for every day commuting.
Traded My Tesla for it, no regrets
5 out of 5 stars
Imi, 02/25/2022
2022 Toyota Corolla SE Nightshade 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT)
I ws always skeptical about the corcorols drive quality as I was coming from Tesla model 3 Sr+. Let me tell you this, thus car has it all and half the payments of Tesla. My Tesla could only be driven 200 kms on a full charge and that was ridiculous 😒. Way happier with this car.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2023 Toyota Corolla, so we've included reviews for other years of the Corolla since its last redesign.
The Hyundai Elantra makes a strong case for itself in a competitive class with its combination of excellent fuel economy, long list of standard features, and roomy interior. As with the Corolla, we're not enamored with the Elantra's underpowered base engine but other more powerful engines are available. Toyota enjoys a reputation for reliability, but Hyundai's longer warranty should be factored in as well.
With its recent redesign, the Honda Civic has kept its place as Edmunds' highest-ranked small sedan. It boasts pleasing interior design and good fuel economy and it's more fun to drive than the Corolla. It also has a larger trunk and a more spacious interior. But if you're on a tight budget, the Corolla might win you over with its lower starting price.
With an interior that is genuinely more upscale in both design and materials than those in many entry-level luxury cars, the Mazda comes off as the more premium small sedan of the two. The Mazda is also fun to drive and offers a class rarity of all-wheel drive. But the Mazda can get expensive, especially with its more powerful engine, making the Corolla a better budget-conscious choice.
Warns if a front collision is imminent and applies the brakes if you don't respond in time.
Lane Departure Alert w/Steering Assist
Warns if you are drifting out of your lane and corrects the steering if you don't respond in time.
Automatic High Beams
Activates high beams automatically on dark roads and deactivates them when the system detects an oncoming vehicle.
NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Driver
5 / 5
Passenger
5 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Driver
5 / 5
Passenger
5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Rating
Front Seat
5 / 5
Back Seat
5 / 5
Rollover
Rating
Rollover
4 / 5
Dynamic Test Result
No Tip
Risk Of Rollover
10.5%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Acceptable
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Acceptable
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good
2023 Toyota Corolla First Impressions
by the Edmunds Experts
•1/13/2022
What is the Toyota Corolla?
The Corolla is the versatile entry-level model in the Toyota family of vehicles. It comes in many flavors, ranging from economically packaged (small sedan) to fully packaged (Apex) to hotly rumored and far from confirmed (GR). It's also been around for a long time, as it entered its 12th generation in 2020.
That doesn't mean the vehicle has grown stale. The latest generation significantly updated the styling of the Corolla and introduced a hatchback version, giving consumers yet another choice when looking at Toyota's smallest vehicle. No significant changes are expected for the 2023 model, but rumors of a sporty import are flying.
What to know about the GR Corolla
Toyota teased the GR Corolla (GR for Gazoo Racing, Toyota's performance division) on Instagram. It's a slightly chunkier version of the GR Yaris available in Japan, which bolstered rumors of production spawned from the usual places (low-resolution photos leaked on the internet). The Yaris is powered by a 268-hp 1.6-liter engine. We don't know for sure which engine a Corolla GR would get, but it's rumored the same powerplant will appear in a Corolla GR.
Does that guarantee you'll be able to get a sporty version of Toyota's most economical vehicle in late 2022? No. But that won't keep us from getting our hopes up.
Edmunds says
Toyota has never messed with the Corolla's successful formula despite years of tweaks at the margins. The 2023 Toyota Corolla remains a solid value as a reliable small sedan with great fuel economy and sensible styling. That's given the Corolla tremendous staying power alongside rivals like the Honda Civic, Kia Forte and Mazda 3 over the years.
FAQ
Is the Toyota Corolla a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2023 Corolla both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.4 out of 10. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2023 Corolla gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 43 reviews) What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the Corolla has 13.1 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Toyota Corolla. Learn more
What's new in the 2023 Toyota Corolla?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2023 Toyota Corolla:
Minor styling and powertrain updates
Next-generation infotainment systems debuts
Enhanced driver assist and collision avoidance technologies
Discontinued L, XLE and Apex Edition trims
Part of the 12th Corolla generation introduced for 2020
To determine whether the Toyota Corolla is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the Corolla. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the Corolla's 4-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2023 Toyota Corolla a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2023 Toyota Corolla is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2023 Corolla and gave it a 7.4 out of 10. Our consumer reviews show that the 2023 Corolla gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 43 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2023 Corolla is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2023 Toyota Corolla?
The least-expensive 2023 Toyota Corolla is the 2023 Toyota Corolla LE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $21,700.
Other versions include:
LE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT) which starts at $21,700
SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT) which starts at $24,140
XSE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT) which starts at $26,850
If you're interested in the Toyota Corolla, the next question is, which Corolla model is right for you? Corolla variants include LE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT), SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT), and XSE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT). For a full list of Corolla models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more