2023 Toyota Corolla: Hatchback, Sedan and Hybrid All Get Significant Upgrades
The 2023 Toyota Corolla range comes with upgrades to performance, safety, and multimedia. But the biggest shock is a price reduction.
Toyota has recently released all the details on the upcoming 2023 Toyota Corolla models. This includes the fun hatchback, the practical sedan, and the efficient hybrid. Across the board each model sees significant upgrades to the styling, the performance, and the technology to make the 2023 models the most advanced and desirable yet. Each model may appeal to a different type of buyer, but everyone should be pleased with the changes that Toyota has in store.
With the SUV craze that has gripped the world the Corolla is now outsold by the RAV4 and Highlander. In the car division it is outsold by the Camry. But that doesn’t mean the Corolla is no longer a very important car for Toyota. They do still sell about a quarter of a million of them every year. So, updates to the Corolla range are always watched carefully. And for 2023 there will be plenty to watch as Toyota rolled out quite a few updates across the range.
Corolla Sedan
Performance, safety, technology, and looks will all be upgraded on the 2023 Toyota Corolla sedan. The most popular trim in the range gets a major performance boost. The Corolla LE (which is now the base model as the L trim is discontinued for 2023) gets the 169-horsepower 2.0L Dynamic Force four-cylinder engine used in all other Corolla gas models. It replaces the previous 139-horsepower 1.8L. The engine shaves a full 2 seconds off the 0 to 60 mph time. It not only improves performance but the combined EPA rating climbs from 33 mpg combined to 35 mpg combined for the new engine.
Sedan Models
The Corolla Sedan is offered in three model grades for 2023. The LE model is the new base level. The SE and XSE give a touch more sport with added standard Smart Key, and enhanced Sport driving mode tuning and red interior accents replacing blue. The XLE trim is now hybrid only. “The XSE also gains a redesigned 7-inch Fully Digital Gauge Cluster. All other grades feature an updated 4.2-inch MID located between the tachometer and speedometer, allowing the driver to view either analog or digital speedometers.” All trims come with a CVT transmission, but the XSE grade also features paddle shifters to engage 10 pre-set ratios to offer a sportier feel. The SE and XSE grades are available with a JBL Premium Audio system with 9 speakers, including an 800-watt amplifier and 10-in. subwoofer.
Sedan Style
All 2023 Corolla sedans benefit from new front fascia styling and LED running lights. The LE adds an updated rear bumper design, while the SE and XSE feature new 18-inch Gloss Graphite-colored alloy wheels. The SE and XSE also get a gloss black mesh-pattern lower grille and new LED headlights. “For the 2023 Corolla Sedan, Midnight Black Metallic replaces Black Sand Pearl, and Underground replaces Blue Cush Metallic. Colors carrying over for 2023 include Ice Cap, Classic Silver Metallic, Celestite and Blueprint. Wind Chill Pearl and Ruby Flare Pearl remain available for extra cost.”
Sedan Safety and Technology
“For 2023, Toyota Safety Sense technology in Corolla evolves to version 3.0 and includes enhanced versions of the following: Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD). Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA). Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC). Lane Tracing Assist (LTA). Road Sign Assist (RSA). Automatic High Beams (AHB).” All 2023 Corolla sedans come with 8 airbags, and Toyota’s Star Safety System. A rear backup camera is also standard.
All 2023 Corolla and Corolla Hybrid models debut a new standard next-generation 8-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia system. “Users can interact with the new system’s design through intuitive touch and voice activation controls. With Drive Connect, Toyota’s latest available Connected Service, users have access to Intelligent Assistant, Cloud Navigation and Destination Assist. All Corolla models come with a host of Connected Services available on all grades. Safety Connect, now with up to a 10-year trial subscription for 2023, includes an Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), 24/7 Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Automatic Collision Notification, Stolen Vehicle Locator and Collision Assistance. Service Connect, also with up to a 10-year trial subscription for 2023, offers drivers the capability of receiving Vehicle Health Reports, Maintenance Alerts and reminders.”
2023 Corolla Hatchback
Many of the same changes we see on the sedan carry over to the hatchback model. But there are a few key differences. The hatchback is bit bolder than the sedan and that is evident in the new paint colors. Blue Crush Metallic replaces Galactic Aqua Mica, while Inferno replaces Blue Flame. There is also the option for a two-tone look with the available Midnight Black Metallic roof. On the more practical side, the available Enhanced Cargo Space option adds six cubic feet of space by lowering the cargo floor, made possible by switching out the spare tire for a tire repair kit. The hatchback also gets styling updates similar to the sedan model with revised lighting.
2023 Corolla Hybrid
When was the last time you heard about a price DECREASE on anything? Well, the starting MSRP of the 2023 Corolla Hybrid will be $1,250 lower than the 2022 model. The Corolla Hybrid range also expands from a single model grade to five grades in 2023. There is the Corolla Hybrid LE grade which gets the price reduction. “The Hybrid LE is now joined by a new LE AWD grade, sporty SE and SE AWD grades and a premium focused XLE. The XLE grade is now only available as a hybrid for 2023.” On top of that there is a new Hybrid SE Infrared Edition for 2023. It is available in both FWD and AWD versions. The Infrared Edition is distinct due to its red trim accenting the exterior and interior. The red contrasts with the available Ice Cap, Midnight Black Metallic or all-new Underground exterior colors.
Corolla Hybrid Powertrain
The Hybrid is for those that prioritize efficiency but a little more power never hurts. The revised hybrid system increases total output to 134 horsepower, up from 121. Torque also increases to 156 pound-feet, up 10 on last year. Combined EPA rating improves to 47 mpg. Also, AWD is newly available on the 2023 Corolla Hybrid. Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive employs a separate rear-mounted electric motor to power the rear wheels when needed. Combined fuel economy for the AWD model is 44 mpg. Much of the interior and technology and safety upgrades from the Sedan and Hatchback carry over to the Hybrid.
Pricing
We know the price of the Hybrid LE is being reduced from the 2022 model year. However, Toyota has not yet announced the pricing points for all of the various models and grades. This information will be made available later this year. If you are looking for a practical sedan, hatch or hybrid Toyota has got you covered with the 2023 Corolla lineup. Of course, if you like to combine practicality with crazy amounts of fun and performance there is always the GR Corolla.
Images: Toyota
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