2018 Toyota Corolla iM Review
Price Range: $14,998 - $19,990





+83
Edmunds' Expert Review

by Cameron Rogers
Manager, Written Content
Cameron Rogers has worked in the automotive industry since 2013. He has tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. As a manager of written content, he writes and edits the reviews that help consumers find their perfect car. Favorite cars that he's driven during his tenure at Edmunds include the 991-era Porsche 911 Turbo S, Rolls-Royce Ghost and several generations of Honda Odyssey (really).
Pros
- Provides exceptional value, with tons of features at a low price
- Ride is comfortable and composed on bumpy roads
- Front seats remain supportive on long drives
Cons
- One of the slowest cars in a segment not known for speed
- Most rivals are more enjoyable to drive
- Rear visibility is compromised by thick roof pillars
- Cabin is smaller in the back than some competitors
What’s new
The Toyota Corolla iM is unchanged for 2018.
Vehicle overview
A compact sedan is an excellent choice if good fuel economy, a low price and everyday ease of use top your list of vehicular requirements. But the small dimensions naturally necessitate a similarly compact cargo area, which is not great if you want to take a spur-of-the-moment road trip with your friends. Luckily, most are available in a more practical hatchback body style. The 2018 Toyota Corolla iM is essentially a hatchback variant of the ubiquitous Corolla, and its single available trim takes a lot of guesswork out of the shopping experience.
For sale nearby
13 listings
- $12,459great price$2,440 below market
- 94,591 miles
- 3 accidents, 2 owners, personal use only
- 4cyl automatic
- National Motors of Ellicott City (40 mi away)
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- USB Inputs
- Multi-Zone Climate C...
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Located in Ellicott City, MD
All our vehicles are Maryland State Inspected and come with a AutoCheck History Report. We are proud to include a limited warranty on all cars at no a...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
31 Combined MPG (28 City/36 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: JTNKARJE5JJ556834
Stock: 556834
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 04-30-2025 - $10,995good price$1,016 below market
- 121,476 miles
- No accidents, 3 owners, corporate fleet vehicle
- 4cyl manual
- AutoTrend & Trucks (54 mi away)
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- USB Inputs
- Multi-Zone Climate C...
Close
Located in Fredericksburg, VA
Finding the right used car can create some real headaches when mileage and condition is a factor. you can feel confident that this one is in prime co...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: No
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
30 Combined MPG (27 City/35 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: JTNKARJE0JJ572469
Stock: ATT-572469
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 03-06-2025
The Corolla iM carries many of the sedan's benefits and pitfalls. On one hand, the ride and seats are comfortable, materials quality is good, and the user interface is intuitive. Plus, you get a ton of standard features for the money. Unfortunately, the cargo area is smaller than competitors' and the back seat is pretty cramped. It's also not much fun to drive, with painfully slow acceleration from its underpowered four-cylinder. Overall, the Corolla iM is a decent choice that looks good on paper thanks to its robust features list. But we think shoppers would be happier paying a little extra for a more well-rounded small hatchback.
Notably, we picked the 2018 Toyota Corolla iM as one of Edmunds' Best Used Cars, Trucks and SUVs.
Edmunds' Expert Rating
7.5 / 10The 2018 Toyota Corolla iM offers a lot for the money, with a lower price tag than many rivals and a more expansive features list. But shoppers should think twice due to its lack of driving excitement and small cabin and cargo area.
Trim tested
Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the identical (except for the name) 2016 Scion iM (1.8L inline-4 | CVT automatic | FWD).
NOTE: Since this test was conducted, the currentToyota Corolla iM has received some revisions, including standard automatic high-beam control, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking in 2017. Our findings remain applicable to this year's Corolla iM.
Scorecard
Overall | 7.5 / 10 |
Driving | 6.0 |
Comfort | 8.5 |
Interior | 7.5 |
Utility | 7.5 |
Driving
6.0The Toyota Corolla iM is noticeably sharper to drive than the Corolla sedan, and although pleasant to drive, it's not as engaging as top competitors. The 137-horsepower iM is underpowered, and it perpetually shows, letting down the entire car. The CVT automatic, however, behaves nicely.
Acceleration
5.0Acceleration is ultra-smooth and quiet with the gas pedal partially pressed down, but at full throttle the 1.8-liter four-cylinder is noisy and totally gutless. A 0-60-mph time of 10 seconds is 1.5 seconds slower than class average and basically tied for class-worst.
Braking
7.5The iM's brake pedal feels firm and consistent during normal driving. In our simulated-panic stop, the iM came to a halt from 60 mph in a class-average 122 feet.
Steering
6.0Some road feel is transmitted when pushing the Corolla iM hard around a corner, but otherwise the steering is pretty numb and lifeless compared to the segment best. It does not provide you with any extra feel for the road or encourage you to drive with enthusiasm.
Handling
7.0This lightweight car with small dimensions is reasonably responsive and nimble. It changes directions well, but noticeable amounts of body roll reduce confidence. Though it doesn't encourage you to drive enthusiastically, it doesn't dissuade like the Corolla sedan does.
Drivability
8.5The CVT is better than most, providing smooth acceleration and simulating shifts under hard acceleration. Engaging Sport mode will cause the engine to hold revs, especially when going up- or downhill. Cruise control does a fine job holding a set speed downhill. This is a very easy car to drive.
Comfort
8.5For a car that started out as a Scion (not necessarily known for comfort, tranquility or general refinement), the iM offers a genuinely comfortable and controlled ride and seats that are impressively supportive and comfortable. A noisy engine is one of the only faults.
Seat comfort
8.5The Corolla iM features some of the most comfortable and supportive front seats in the segment, with ample adjustment even for tall drivers. They remain a nice place to sit even on long drives. The back seat is flat, but a long cushion and suitable height make it comfy enough for adults.
Ride comfort
8.5Big road undulations give the iM some trouble, but otherwise the car's impressively controlled suspension soaks up bumps very well. The sophisticated ride is a standout attribute.
Noise & vibration
7.0There is some noticeable wind noise on each side of the car aft of the rear doors. Beyond that, both wind noise and road noise are kept very nicely quelled. The underpowered engine is noisy and not a pleasure to hear — and you do hear it a lot.
Interior
7.5For many, the Corolla iM will be a very agreeable daily driver. Its user-friendly controls, abundant features and high-quality cabin materials will certainly be appreciated, though its so-so backward visibility and a lack of backseat room could be cause for concern.
Ease of use
9.0Controls are well-placed and simple, including those for the standard touchscreen interface. Its menus make sense, its buttons are of a reasonable size, and reactions are very quick. Auto climate controls are a nice touch in this segment.
Getting in/getting out
7.0The Corolla iM's doors are large and light, making them easy to open. Even with a smallish back seat, getting into the back isn't difficult. The rear roofline isn't aggressively raked, reducing the chances of conking your head.
Roominess
7.0There is less backseat legroom than in a Kia Forte 5, Mazda 3 or Volkswagen Golf, but it's not cramped. There's a suitable amount of rear legroom and headroom. Even tall folks will find ample space all around in front.
Visibility
6.5A small rear window and big rear roof pillars diminish the driver's rear visibility. A sharply angled windshield and a high dash don't help either, but at least the front pillars are thin. A rearview camera is standard, but no other driver aids are even optional.
Quality
8.5The iM's cabin is mostly monochrome, with ample amounts of black plastic all around, but at least the surfaces you see and touch most often are soft. There's even a padded driver leg rest. The switchgear throughout the cabin, especially climate controls, looks and feels very nice.
Utility
7.5The Toyota Corolla iM has many small item bins and storage areas throughout its cabin. The cargo area is smaller than those of some competing hatchbacks, but not by a significant amount.
Small-item storage
There are two cupholders in the front near the shifter, two in the back under the armrest and one in each door. The under-armrest bin is fairly deep, but the cellphone bin under the center stack doesn't allow much room for USB wires.
Cargo space
Cargo capacity is a bit smaller than other hatchbacks in this class, with only 20.8 cubic feet available behind the rear seats. (For comparison, a Civic hatchback boasts 25.7 cubic feet.) In short, it's more versatile than a sedan but less so than other hatchbacks.
Which Corolla iM does Edmunds recommend?
The 2018 Toyota Corolla iM hatchback comes in a single, well-equipped trim level, with a wealth of standard options. These include automatic headlights, heated mirrors, dual-zone climate control, a touchscreen infotainment display and advanced driver aids. However, there are several dealer-installed options and accessories worth considering, such as a rear spoiler, interior ambient lighting and navigation. Unless you absolutely need these odds and ends, we recommend sticking with the standard Corolla iM and enjoying its comparatively low price.
2018 Toyota Corolla iM models
Introduced to the Scion brand in 2016 and brought under the Toyota umbrella last year, the Corolla iM is essentially a hatchback version of the Corolla sedan. Unlike the Corolla, the 2018 iM is sold in a single trim level, but it's actually a little less expensive than a comparably equipped Corolla. It's not quite as customizable, though, since your only real choices are color, transmission and selection of dealer-installed accessories.
Under the hood of the 2018 Toyota Corolla iM is a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine (137 horsepower, 126 pound-feet) that drives the front wheels through a six-speed manual transmission or continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights with auto high-beam control, LED daytime running lights and taillights, a rear spoiler, heated and power-folding mirrors, a leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, a driver information display, a height-adjustable driver seat and 60/40-split folding rear seats.
With the iM, you also get a rearview camera, Bluetooth, a 7-inch touchscreen, and a six-speaker sound system with a USB port and HD radio. Standard advanced safety systems include lane departure warning and forward collision warning with automatic braking.
The are no factory options available, but notable dealer accessories include interior ambient lighting, a navigation system and various sport body enhancements.

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Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2018 Toyota Corolla iM 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 6M) 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 $3.01 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$123/mo for Corolla iM Base
Corolla iM Base
vs
$158/mo
Avg. Compact Car
See Edmunds pricing data
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Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
4.5 out of 5 stars4.5/5Excellent
#2 out of 46 among Compact Cars
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Toyota Corolla iM from 2008-2022.$423/yr
vs. $416/yr
for Average Compact Car
for Average Compact Car
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).0.46x/yr
vs. 1.01x/yr
for Average Compact Car
for Average Compact Car
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).7.4%
vs. 10.4%
for Average Compact Car
for Average Compact Car
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Toyota Corolla iM Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(59%)
4(24%)
3(9%)
2(6%)
1(2%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
I am impressed
5 out of 5 starsDoug Lower, 12/25/2016
2017 Toyota Corolla iM 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 6M)
I have owned over a hundred vehicles, and I have to say this vehicle has a lot of bang for the buck. I am impressed with the interior quality, it is nicer than my RAV 4 hybrid. I purchased the vehicle for $16,800. You cannot touch other vehicles for the price. I have owned many Toyota products and you cannot beat the quality. I am very satisfied with the engine/transmission combo. I am … not sure how the CVT performs, but the manual is great with this engine. The ride is superb. It is a great looking vehicle and the spring green color is uplifting during these drab winter days. I love all the standard safety features that Toyota now includes with all their vehicles for 17. I tried out all the competition before buying , they were more expensive and quality or size was not to my liking. I am happy with the 1.8 in this vehicle , great performance with great economy. I would not want a bigger engine. I had the 2.4 in my TC and XB and the mileage could have been better. I look for good looks, reliability, economy, resale value, nice ride, competent handling, and safety, and hatchback versatility, this vehicle delivers.
my new matrix for senior citizen!
5 out of 5 starsA.Shepherd, 01/21/2017
2017 Toyota Corolla iM 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl CVT)
I traded a 9 year old matrix on new IM cvt .If the IM is as reliable as the XR was then Ill be a happy camper. I did have to give up cargo capacity and towing capabilities so time will tell how much that'll be missed, but made a huge gain in handling , comfort,and fuel economy. Added bonus...auto insurance lower due to all the advanced safety features. Overall I am very satisfied with … the value and contrary to some reviews, I find the engine and transmission performance quiet and responsive,returning mpg's in the high 30's low 40's. Only complaint is the projector beam headlamps..very sharp cutoff and not a wide enough path.Will probably solve with driving/fog lamps at some point.
Awesome daily driver car!
5 out of 5 starsGTI, 01/20/2017
2017 Toyota Corolla iM 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl CVT)
This is really a great car, easy to drive and great on gas. The cabin is nice and the materials look and feel terrific for its class, The ride is rather firm but never too harsh. The seats are fantastic!!! The power is more than enough for normal driving, and I have never found the engine noise too loud. Transmission is silky smooth.
iM Hatch AKA Scion iM
5 out of 5 starsMatthew, 01/22/2018
2018 Toyota Corolla iM 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl CVT)
I bought my Scion iM the week Toyota said it was killing off the Scion brand.I have owned my iM about a year and half now I am now up to 8,700 miles and I still love it !! Local driving I am getting26- 28 mpg on highway trips I have hit 43.4 mpg .I love all the standard features and I have added front L.E.D fog lights they are offered in the aftermarket world not through dealers.I have … also installed a cold air intake setup so it helps make it takeoff a lot better.This winter I bought four Bridgestone Blizzaks snow tires and separate winter rims for better traction in the snow ,the stock tires give you the mpg but not so great in winter conditions .Curt enterprises makes a hitch that bolts into the rear frame so installing a bicycle rack is a breeze.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2018 Toyota Corolla iM, so we've included reviews for other years of the Corolla iM since its last redesign.
2018 Corolla iM Highlights
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $18,850 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 30 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $123/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 20.8 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Our experts like the Corolla iM models:
- Lane Departure Alert
- Sounds an audible alert if sensors detect the Corolla iM is moving outside its lane.
- Pre-Collision System
- Detects if a front collision is imminent and, if so, automatically applies the brakes to lessen or avoid the impact.
- Hill Start Assist
- Holds the brakes for up to 2 seconds while the driver switches from the brake to gas pedal while starting up a hill.
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintNot Tested
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