2020 Toyota Corolla
What’s new
- The 2020 Toyota Corolla has been fully redesigned
- Kicks off the 12th Corolla generation
Pros & Cons
- Long list of standard advanced safety features
- Interior is solidly built and has high-quality materials
- Comfortable ride quality
- Strong fuel economy numbers
- No Android Auto support
- Even the sporty trims are a little slow and not much fun to drive
- Less rear-seat headroom than roomier rivals
2020 Toyota Corolla pricing
in Ashburn, VA
2020 Toyota Corolla Review
The 2020 Toyota Corolla gets a full redesign that makes it more competitive against some very strong rivals. This time around, the Corolla sheds a lot of the uninspired personality and lackluster materials that held back previous generations. It now looks a lot sharper, and the interior exceeds expectations for the class.
Joining this sedan in the lineup are Corolla Hybrid and Corolla Hatchback variants (each reviewed separately). Whichever Corolla you go with, there are plenty of features to make you feel like you're getting the most out of your investment. These include advanced safety features, adaptive cruise control and Apple CarPlay on all models.
This latest 2020 Corolla represents one of the most significant redesigns in its long history. It's now a serious competitor against the Honda Civic and the Mazda 3, whereas previous generations often came across as though Toyota was simply phoning it in or relying on its reputation for reliability. If you've been turned off by the last round of Corollas, it may be time for you to come back.
Our verdict
7.5 / 10How does it drive?
7.0We 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.
How comfortable is it?
7.5Road noise increases noticeably on coarse asphalt surfaces, and you'll hear some extra wind noise around the mirrors at highway speeds. The noise isn't offensive, and the cabin is otherwise pleasantly quiet.
How’s the interior?
8.0It's also easy to get in and out of the car. There's plenty of room for front passengers, 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.
How’s the tech?
7.5Many advanced safety features are included as part of the standard Toyota Safety Sense suite, and almost all are well-tuned to be as unobtrusive as possible. The lane departure warning system is the outlier, and it can be oversensitive and annoying with its frequent beeping. The adaptive cruise control is praiseworthy for its smooth braking and acceleration.
How’s the storage?
7.5Storage 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 seats. The clearly marked car seat anchors should help with installation.
How economical is it?
8.5Is it a good value?
7.5Wildcard
7.5Which Corolla does Edmunds recommend?
Toyota Corolla models
The 2020 Toyota Corolla is available in five trim levels: L, LE, SE, XLE and XSE. The L, LE and XLE are powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine (139 horsepower, 126 lb-ft of torque) that is paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) that drives the front wheels. The SE and the XLE get a 2.0-liter engine (169 hp, 151 lb-ft) and a specialized CVT automatic with paddle shifters. The SE is also eligible for a six-speed manual transmission.
Standard features for the base L trim include 15-inch steel wheels, LED headlights, automatic high beams, adaptive cruise control, air conditioning, four-way manually adjustable front seats, and 60/40-split folding rear seats. You also get Toyota's Safety Connect emergency communications, Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi hotspot, a 7-inch touchscreen, a USB port, a rearview camera, Apple CarPlay, and a six-speaker sound system. Advanced safety features include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist and a traffic sign reader.
The LE trim adds 16-inch wheels, heated mirrors, remote keyless entry, automatic climate control, upgraded upholstery, a rear-seat center armrest, front and rear cupholders, and an additional USB charge port.
The sporty SE spices things up with 18-inch alloy wheels, upgraded headlights, sporty exterior treatments, sport front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. If you opt for the manual transmission, you'll also get keyless entry and ignition, selectable drive modes, and a sunroof (these are optional with the CVT automatic).
The XLE reverts to the 1.8-liter engine and goes with 16-inch alloy wheels, selectable drive modes, a virtual instrument panel, simulated-leather upholstery (SofTex), a power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, an 8-inch touchscreen, satellite radio, and blind-spot monitoring. The XSE combines the SE and XLE trims by giving you the more powerful 2.0-liter engine and CVT automatic, 18-inch wheels and power-adjustable sport seats.
Some of the Corolla's features found on the higher trims are optional on the lower trims. A nine-speaker JBL premium audio system is offered on SE trims and above (includes navigation and a wireless charging pad on the XLE and the XSE). Adaptive headlights and interior ambient lighting are available on the XSE and the XLE only.
Sponsored cars related to the Corolla
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2020 Toyota Corolla.
Trending topics in reviews
- interior
- handling & steering
- road noise
- technology
- value
- transmission
- comfort
- dashboard
- appearance
- reliability & manufacturing quality
- engine
- driving experience
- seats
- safety
- maintenance & parts
- fuel efficiency
- visibility
- electrical system
- doors
- wheels & tires
- steering wheel
- infotainment system
- lights
- acceleration
- sound system
- spaciousness
- climate control
- towing
- warranty
- ride quality
- brakes
Most helpful consumer reviews
This is my 4th Corolla. I still have two 2014's. The 2020 Corolla is the best one yet. I have owned it about a month and I have been very impressed with the redesign and all the new safety features. Very comfortable and easy to drive. So much quieter and smoother than the previous models. Definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a reasonably priced, solidly built, reliable car that is very fuel efficient.
For me this car is perfection. I am 70 and needed the included safety features. I was blown away with how much I enjoy driving the car. Responsive and always predictable, smooth shifts, good power, nice braking even when it gives it's opinion on brake force. First day I had it, took my sister on a 700 mile medical trip. Torrential rain, 60 % freeway, 30% coast range, 10 % big city and stop and go getting out of city. MPG ave 36.9 I felt safe in all the situations. I am person who traded in a Prius a few years ago because the seats made me cry. This car seat felt the same after 18 hours as it did at the start. Toyota knocked it out of the park as far as I am concerned. First time I have named a car.
Excellent vehicle. Peppy with the 2.0 motor. Much improved exterior styling. Doesn’t have the terrible cvt drone like other cars. Well worth the money. Love the fit and finish of Toyota vehicles.
My first car was a Toyota Corolla, and I loved it, but when it came time to get a new car after ten years, I wanted more horsepower. The 2.0 engine is awesome! I love the way they made it so that I can still get off red lights or in an out of traffic quickly. I love the feel of the Corolla. Also, this car handles like a dream. It takes curves and corners very well (MUCH improvement over my last Corolla). I do wish they would improve the graphics on the view screen. They are kind of bland which is weird because the backup camera is awesome and has super bright colors. I feel like this new generation looks so much better than the past, but it still has everything that makes Corollas amazing. I recommend the upgrade to push button start and leather wrapped steering wheel.
Features & Specs
| LE 4dr Sedan 1.8L 4cyl CVT | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $20,050 |
| MPG | 30 city / 38 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | Continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 139 hp @ 6100 rpm |
| SE 4dr Sedan 2.0L 4cyl CVT | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $22,050 |
| MPG | 31 city / 40 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | Continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 169 hp @ 6600 rpm |
| L 4dr Sedan 1.8L 4cyl CVT | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $19,600 |
| MPG | 30 city / 38 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | Continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 139 hp @ 6100 rpm |
| XSE 4dr Sedan 2.0L 4cyl CVT | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $25,550 |
| MPG | 31 city / 38 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | Continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 169 hp @ 6600 rpm |
Safety
Our experts’ favorite Corolla safety features:
- Pre-Collision System
- Warns if a front collision is imminent and applies the brakes if the driver doesn'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.
| Side Impact Test | Good |
|---|---|
| Roof Strength Test | Good |
| Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint | Good |
| IIHS Small Overlap Front Test | Not Tested |
| Moderate Overlap Front Test | Good |
Toyota Corolla vs. the competition
Toyota Corolla vs. Honda Civic
These are two of the most popular small sedans around. We like the Civic for its turbocharged engine upgrade, sporty handling, comfortable ride, spacious cabin and long list of features. But we're not fans of its overly sensitive advanced safety features and slow responses from the adaptive cruise. This new Corolla makes the battle with the Civic closer than before.
Toyota Corolla vs. Kia Forte
The Kia Forte is all-new for 2019 and remains a very strong value in the class. You get more features for the money, along with a generous warranty. On top of that, we like the Forte for its high fuel economy and easy-to-use tech. But it does have a somewhat stiff ride quality, and the back seats aren't as roomy as those in some rivals.
Toyota Corolla vs. Mazda 3
The Mazda 3 receives a full redesign for 2019. The new Mazda 3 is one of the most attractively styled sedans in its class. And if history serves as a guide, it may be one of the more engaging to drive as well. We give it high marks for its interior refinement and very comfortable seats.
FAQ
Is the Toyota Corolla a good car?
What's new in the 2020 Toyota Corolla?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2020 Toyota Corolla:
- The 2020 Toyota Corolla has been fully redesigned
- Kicks off the 12th Corolla generation
Is the Toyota Corolla reliable?
Is the 2020 Toyota Corolla a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2020 Toyota Corolla?
The least-expensive 2020 Toyota Corolla is the 2020 Toyota Corolla L 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $19,600.
Other versions include:
- LE 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT) which starts at $20,050
- SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT) which starts at $22,050
- L 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT) which starts at $19,600
- XSE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT) which starts at $25,550
- XLE 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT) which starts at $24,050
- SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 6M) which starts at $22,750
- SE Nightshade 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT) which starts at $22,750
What are the different models of Toyota Corolla?
More about the 2020 Toyota Corolla
2020 Toyota Corolla Overview
The 2020 Toyota Corolla is offered in the following submodels: Corolla Sedan. Available styles include LE 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT), SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT), L 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT), XSE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT), XLE 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT), SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 6M), and SE Nightshade 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT).
What do people think of the 2020 Toyota Corolla?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2020 Toyota Corolla and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2020 Corolla 3.7 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2020 Corolla.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2020 Toyota Corolla and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2020 Corolla featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2020 Toyota Corolla?
2020 Toyota Corolla XLE 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT)
The 2020 Toyota Corolla XLE 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $25,679. The average price paid for a new 2020 Toyota Corolla XLE 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT) is trending $1,867 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $1,867 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $23,812.
The average savings for the 2020 Toyota Corolla XLE 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT) is 7.3% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 3 2020 Toyota Corolla XLE 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2020 Toyota Corolla SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT)
The 2020 Toyota Corolla SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $23,254. The average price paid for a new 2020 Toyota Corolla SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT) is trending $1,595 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $1,595 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $21,659.
The average savings for the 2020 Toyota Corolla SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT) is 6.9% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 76 2020 Toyota Corolla SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2020 Toyota Corolla LE 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT)
The 2020 Toyota Corolla LE 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $21,005. The average price paid for a new 2020 Toyota Corolla LE 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT) is trending $1,882 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $1,882 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $19,123.
The average savings for the 2020 Toyota Corolla LE 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT) is 9% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 130 2020 Toyota Corolla LE 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2020 Toyota Corolla L 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT)
The 2020 Toyota Corolla L 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $20,883. The average price paid for a new 2020 Toyota Corolla L 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT) is trending $1,586 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $1,586 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $19,297.
The average savings for the 2020 Toyota Corolla L 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT) is 7.6% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 4 2020 Toyota Corolla L 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2020 Toyota Corolla XSE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT)
The 2020 Toyota Corolla XSE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $26,962. The average price paid for a new 2020 Toyota Corolla XSE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT) is trending $1,433 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $1,433 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $25,529.
The average savings for the 2020 Toyota Corolla XSE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT) is 5.3% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 2 2020 Toyota Corolla XSE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2020 Toyota Corolla SE Nightshade 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT)
The 2020 Toyota Corolla SE Nightshade 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $24,412. The average price paid for a new 2020 Toyota Corolla SE Nightshade 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT) is trending $1,875 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $1,875 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $22,537.
The average savings for the 2020 Toyota Corolla SE Nightshade 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT) is 7.7% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 1 2020 Toyota Corolla SE Nightshade 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
Which 2020 Toyota Corollas are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2020 Toyota Corolla for sale near. There are currently 821 new 2020 Corollas listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $20,137 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2020 Toyota Corolla. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $3,631 on a used or CPO 2020 Corolla available from a dealership near you.
Can't find a new 2020 Toyota Corollas you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a new Toyota Corolla for sale - 2 great deals out of 12 listings starting at $19,307.
Find a new Toyota for sale - 2 great deals out of 7 listings starting at $16,988.
Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2020 Toyota Corolla?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Toyota lease specials