2020 Toyota Corolla
| MSRP | $21,157 |
|---|---|
| Edmunds suggests you pay | $19,253 |
What Should I Pay
2020 Toyota Corolla Review
- 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
- The 2020 Toyota Corolla has been fully redesigned
- Kicks off the 12th Corolla generation
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 | |
The Toyota Corolla is a strong competitor in the small-sedan class. We give the Corolla high marks for its 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. 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. | |
How comfortable is the Corolla? | |
The Corolla's ride quality is smooth, 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. Road 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? | |
The Corolla's interior benefits from a simple layout that is easy to use. 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. 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? | |
Toyota's recent infotainment systems have never managed to win us over, but this latest version is a marked improvement. That said, it's still not as intuitive or visually appealing as rival systems. Thankfully, Apple CarPlay is included and is our preferred interface, both in terms of on-screen and voice commands. Sadly, Android Auto is not offered. Many 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? | |
The Corolla has a smaller-capacity trunk than its primary competition, but only by a little. And it should still be enough for typical use. Unfortunately, the rear seatbacks don't fold flat with the trunk floor, which may 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 seats. The clearly marked car seat anchors should help with installation. | |
How’s the fuel economy? | |
The EPA rating for the 2.0-liter engine and CVT automatic is 34 mpg in combined city/highway driving. That's a strong showing from what is the most powerful engine in the lineup. The less powerful 1.8-liter engine is rated at 33 mpg combined. Want more? Check out the new Corolla Hybrid. | |
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 | |
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 capable and competent. | |
Which Corolla does Edmunds recommend?
Price is likely a critical factor if you're shopping for a Corolla, which is why we suggest checking out the LE trim. For the small price increase over the base L trim, you get upgrades that will make it feel less like an econobox. If your budget can handle another $2,000, we recommend the more powerful and sporty SE trim.
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 XSE 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.
Save as much as $2,497 with Edmunds Click on the model you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal.
2020 Toyota Corolla pricing
in Ashburn, VA
LE
1.8L 4cyl CVT
Edmunds suggests you pay$19,770
1 for sale in 20147
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2020 Toyota Corolla.
Trending topics in reviews
- driving experience
- comfort
- appearance
- engine
- fuel efficiency
- ride quality
- interior
- road noise
- handling & steering
- technology
- value
- dashboard
- maintenance & parts
- transmission
- reliability & manufacturing quality
- doors
- visibility
- seats
- lights
- safety
- electrical system
- infotainment system
- brakes
- wheels & tires
- steering wheel
- sound system
- spaciousness
- warranty
- climate control
- towing
- acceleration
Most helpful consumer reviews
5/5 stars, "Angel" for Goldilocks
Cindy,
LE 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT)
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.
5/5 stars, Best Car Ever!
Chris,
LE 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT)
I have owned the 2020 Toyota Corolla LE since May and I have fallen in love with it completely! I love the Apple CarPlay, lane assist, and dynamic radar cruise the most.
I have had nothing but good experiences with this car and I drive it about a thousand miles a week. The last 20K miles on this car have been nothing but pleasant.
If I had to have a complaint it would have to be that the screen has slow response rates when the car first starts up, and I wish it would just automatically load CarPlay instead of me having to select it.
Outside of this, the car is excellent for long road trips and driving around the city. I usually average 36-42 mpg on the interstate and generally average 33-39 mpg in town while running the auto climate control with eco mode turned on.
I have owned many different vehicles and after owning this 2020 Corolla I will not own any car but a Corolla! Even though I am 6' 1" I have plenty of leg room while driving, major improvement over the 2019 and older models.
10/10 recommend.
5/5 stars, Finally a 2.0 Corolla!
txwriter ,
SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT)
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.
5/5 stars, Great Car
Jeff,
LE 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT)
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.
Helpful shopping links
Features & Specs
- Base MSRP
- $19,600
- MPG & Fuel
- 30 City / 38 Hwy / 33 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 5 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: front wheel drive
- Transmission: Continuously variable-speed automatic
- Engine
- Inline 4 cylinder
- Horsepower: 139 hp @ 6100 rpm
- Torque: 126 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm
- Basic Warranty
- 3 yr./ 36000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 182.3 in. / Height: 56.5 in.
- Overall Width with Mirrors: N/A
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 70.1 in.
- Curb Weight: 2910 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 13.1 cu.ft.
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.
Toyota Corolla vs. the competition
2020 Toyota Corolla
2019 Honda Civic
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.
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FAQ
Is the Toyota Corolla a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2020 Corolla both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.5 out of 10. You probably care about Toyota Corolla fuel economy, so it's important to know that the Corolla gets an EPA-estimated 32 mpg to 34 mpg, depending on the configuration. 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 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?
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 average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2020 Toyota Corolla a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2020 Toyota Corolla is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2020 Corolla and gave it a 7.5 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2020 Corolla is a good car for you. Learn more
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
- SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 6M) which starts at $22,750
- 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 Nightshade 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT) which starts at $22,750
What are the different models of Toyota Corolla?
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 (1.8L 4cyl CVT), SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT), L 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT), and SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 6M). For a full list of Corolla models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more