The Toyota Corolla has long been among the best-selling cars in the U.S. with its agreeable pricing, sound pragmaticism, value orientation, and of course, Toyota’s solid reputation for reliability. More recently, the Corolla has become a shapeshifter. In addition to the compact sedan, there’s now a hatchback version, the performance-tuned GR Corolla, and the Corolla Cross crossover. Also added to the Corolla fray beginning in 2020 is the Corolla Hybrid, which furthers the model’s already notable efficiency.
The Corolla Hybrid isn’t too radical of a departure from the standard model as it also prioritizes small pragmaticism, a basic but feature-rich cabin, and the most agreeable driving dynamics. But where the Corolla Hybrid excels is in its value prospect. It is the most affordable new hybrid model of any kind on the market for 2023, and with returns of up to 50 combined mpg, it’s also among the most fuel efficient. Additionally, the Corolla Hybrid has been revamped for the 2023 model year, making it even more appealing for those who put a premium on value.
2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid
- Model
- 2023 Corolla Hybrid
- Engine:
- 1.8-Liter, Four-Cylinder Hybrid
- Power Output
- 138 HP
- Torque
- 105 LB-FT
- Range
- 50 Combined MPG
- Transmission
- CVT
- Driveline
- FWD/AWD
- MSRP
- $23,050-$26,850
- Keyless Entry And Ignition
- Most Affordable Hybrid On Sale
- Generous Safety Features
- Limited Cargo Space
- Not As Well-Equipped As Some Rivals
- Buzzy Engine
2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid Performance And Capability
All 2023 Corolla Hybrid models are powered by a 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine that pairs with either single or dual electric motors for a total output of 138 horsepower and 105 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard and includes a 70kW motor on the front axle. All-wheel drive is optional and adds a 30kW electric motor on the rear axle, though total power output remains unchanged. All models are fitted with a continuously variable transmission.
The 2023 Corolla Hybrid is slightly more powerful than the 2022 model, which delivered 121 horsepower. However, it's still far from a performance machine by any stretch of the imagination. A run from 0-60 mph takes nine seconds, and that time grows by more than a second when the battery needs a charge. Its lack of overall grunt makes hard acceleration a frequent occurrence, and the buzzy engine note pervades the cabin.
The GR Corolla is meant to be the performer of the group, however, with the Corolla Hybrid offering significant savings in fuel costs. And in that regard, it excels. The base LE and XLE models deliver an impressive 50 combined mpg (53 city/46 highway). The SE model, which features a Sport driving mode, delivers 47 combined mpg (50 city/43 highway) with the AWD model returning slightly less at 44 combined mpg.
The all-wheel drive LE version is rated by the EPA to deliver up to 48 combined mpg, giving the Corolla Hybrid excellent fuel economy throughout its range. A regenerative braking system and Eco driving mode can also help increase returns on fuel consumption.
An EV mode is offered, but it doesn’t offer typical all-electric driving. Instead, the driving mode allows for purely electric driving in extremely low-power situations and only for short distances, such as navigating a parking lot.
The Corolla Hybrid won’t necessarily zip by traffic while accelerating along the highway, but once it’s up to speed, its engine is less strained, and it makes for a relatively comfortable cruiser. Potholes and road imperfections will be felt by passengers, but the suspension keeps these bumps and lumps relatively mundane. The SE Infrared Edition, available with either front- or all-wheel drive, is a bit sportier with an upgraded suspension and firmer steering setup.
Exterior Styling
The 2023 Corolla Hybrid receives some visual updates. These include a new front fascia shared with the gas-powered Corolla with variances among the different trims available. For instance, the SE model sports a black mesh-pattern grille, a more aggressively styled front fascia, and a rear diffuser. SE models also wear 18-inch graphite-colored alloy wheels.
The 15-inch wheels that were standard on the 2022 model have been replaced by 16-inch units. LED headlights are now standard across the range. The color palette has also been updated. Black Sand Pearl and Blue Cush Metallic are no longer available, but Midnight Black Metallic and Underground, a dark gray, have been added.
Toyota has aimed to give the Corolla some visual flair, and it certainly has it in the front, but in profile and at the rear, the overall styling is still very much that of a typical economy car that prioritizes practicality over style. Those who want a bit more visual flair can opt for the SE Infrared Edition, which includes red trim inside and out, including a shifter and floor mats accented with red.
Exterior Dimensions
Length | 182.3 in. |
|---|---|
Width | 70.1 in. |
Height | 56.5 in. |
Wheelbase | 106.3 in. |
Ground Clearance | 5.3 in. |
Curb Weight | 2,850 lbs. |
Exterior Colors
Exterior Colors | Price |
|---|---|
Midnight Black | $0 |
Underground | $0 |
Classic Silver | $0 |
Celestite | $0 |
Ice Cap | $0 |
Blueprint | $0 |
Ruby Flare | $425 |
Windchill Pearl | $425 |
Interior Quality And Technology
Like the exterior, the Corolla’s cabin has some visual flair, but practicality is at the forefront. The cabin is laid out intuitively with a slim center console aft a traditional gear lever. The dash features a row of traditional switchgear and is topped by a standard eight-inch touchscreen. Toyota’s infotainment system is not the quickest or prettiest available, but it is easy to navigate. A 4.2-inch digital driver’s display is standard while the top-tier XLE model sports a seven-inch unit.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity are standard with four USB-C ports and a six-speaker sound system, but that’s about as far as the Corolla Hybrid’s tech goes. A nine-speaker JBL sound system or wireless charging pad are available, but only in the top model, further emphasizing the Corolla’s economical focus.
The base LE model comes standard with automatic climate control, but buyers can opt for the LE Convenience Package which adds keyless entry and ignition, heated side mirrors, and other features. The LE Premium Package includes all the same kit and adds a sunroof.
The SE, in addition to its visual and suspension/steering upgrades, has some of these features as standard, with a sunroof or nine-speak JBL sound system available. The top-tier XLE sports synthetic leather upholstery (all other models get cloth seats), heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, a larger driver’s display, and navigation.
The Corolla’s passenger space is respectable given its small overall dimensions, but adults will be a bit squeezed into the rear seats with 34.8 inches of rear legroom and 37 inches of headroom. Of course, that’s pretty much on par for the segment.
For cargo, the Corolla Hybrid leaves some room for improvement. Its trunk offers 13 cubic feet of storage space, which is below many of its rivals, and hinges that dip into the trunk area cut down on usable space. The rear seats do not fold flat. In the cabin, the door pockets are encumbered by the door panel, but there is a small cubby forward of the gear shifter.
Interior Dimensions
Seating Capacity | 5 |
|---|---|
Headroom (front) | 38.3 in. |
Headroom (second row) | 37.1 in. |
Legroom (front) | 42.3 in. |
Legroom (second row) | 34.8 in. |
Shoulder room (front) | 54 in. |
Shoulder room (second row) | 51.7 in. |
Cargo Room | 13.1 cu.-ft. |
2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid Pricing And Availability
The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid is available now with prices starting at $23,050, making it the cheapest hybrid car on the market, with the XLE topping the range at $26,850 MSRP. All models have either stand-alone or optional packages available, including the Infrared Edition available for SE models.
2023 Toyota Corolla Price
Trim | Price |
|---|---|
LE | $23,050 |
SE | $25,490 |
SE Infrared | $26,025 |
XLE | $26,850 |
Safety
The Corolla Hybrid’s value is increased by its ample standard safety features and driver’s aids. All models are fitted with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which includes forward automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection and daytime cyclist detection, Obstacle Anticipation and Deceleration Assists, lane-departure alert with steering assist, automatic high beams, smart cruise control, and other features.
The 2023 Corolla Hybrid earns a five-out-of-five star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It scored 5/5 ratings in all frontal and side crash ratings with a 4/5 rating for rollover resistance. The 2023 Toyota Corolla was given the Top Safety Pick award by the IIHS.
Main Competition
For its value and efficiency, the Corolla Hybrid doesn’t have a long list of competition, but it most closely rivals the Hyundai Elantra Hybrid and its Toyota stablemate, the Prius. Both models are actually more efficient than the Corolla. The Elantra Hybrid is rated for up to 54 combined mpg with the Prius offering 57 combined. The Prius is also the most powerful model of the three with 194 horsepower. The Hyundai has just five more ponies than the Corolla Hybrid.
The Elantra is notably more spacious for both passengers and cargo with 11 more cubic feet of total passenger space and a full cubic foot more trunk space, but the Corolla is larger in both categories than the Prius. The Elantra Hybrid comes more generously equipped as standard, but it starts at $25,665, making it thousands of dollars more expensive in the economically focused segment. The Corolla Hybrid is notably less expensive than the Prius, which starts at over $28,000.
Overall, the 2023 Corolla Hybrid should be on the shortlist for anyone seeking a sedan that prioritizes cost savings. It’s the most affordable way to get over 50 mpg, and that easily helps to overcome some its downsides. However, those willing to spend a bit more should certainly cross-shop the Toyota with the Elantra Hybrid, or perhaps stay at the Toyota dealership and consider the Prius.
FAQ
Q: How much is the 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid?
The 2023 Corolla Hybrid starts at $22,800 MSRP, making it the cheapest hybrid car on sale for 2023.
Q: How many miles per gallon does a 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid get?
According to the EPA, the most efficient 2023 Corolla Hybrid returns 50 combined mpg.
Q: What is the price of Toyota Corolla Hybrid?
The Corolla Hybrid starts at $22,800 for a base model with the top trim commanding $26,600.
Q: What are the changes in the 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid?
The Corolla Hybrid's exterior styling has been updated for 2023, and the model lineup has expanded with more trims, including a special Infrared Edition.