2025 Toyota Corolla Hybrid

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.

How’s the fuel economy? The Corolla Hybrid ranges from up to an estimated 50 mpg combined down to 44 mpg combined for our AWD SE trim test car. There are more efficient choices than the front-wheel-drive models, but none have a lower starting price. The AWD Corolla Hybrid is one of the most efficient AWD hybrids you can buy (even if they seem downright thirsty for a compact hybrid). On our real-world test route, the Corolla averaged just over 41 mpg, likely in part due to how much harder the gas engine has to work on hills and at freeway speeds.