A Complete Review of the Toyota Corolla

August 11th, 2022 by

Everything you need to know about the 2017–2021 models

The Toyota Corolla is a dependable compact sedan known for its affordability and excellent fuel efficiency. Ideal for everyone from first-time drivers to families and commuters, the popular Corolla is backed by the trusted Toyota brand and has earned high marks for safety.

The Corolla, which seats five, became the best-selling car in the world less than a decade after its debut in 1974, according to Motor and Wheels. Toyota has since sold more than 51 million units as of 2021. The Corolla even accounts for one out of every five Toyotas sold.

In addition, the newer model years feature the Corolla Hybrid and Corolla Hatchback.

In this review, we explore the pros and cons of the 2017–2021 models and include information on safety and performance features, price ranges, how the Corolla ranks, and more.

Table of Contents

Toyota Corolla Scorecard

Here is our ranking for the Toyota Corolla. We chose these ratings when compared with similar vehicles.

  • Interior – 6.8/10
  • Performance – 6.9/10
  • Safety – 9.7/10 (5/5 front and side crash test rating; 4/5 for rollovers)
  • Reliability – 8.5/10
  • Fuel economy – 6.5/10 (gas only models)
  • Value – 8/10
  • Overall rating – 8/10

Pros and Cons of a Toyota Corolla

This information was compiled based on our own insights, as well as from U.S. News & World Report, Kelley Blue Book, Cars.com, and Car and Driver.

Toyota Corolla Interior Features

The exact features will vary depending on the model year and trim, but here are some of the most common:

  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Backup camera
  • Interior accents
  • Lane departure warning
  • Side-impact airbags
  • Bluetooth
  • Keyless entry
  • Satellite radio ready
  • Wifi hotspot

Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity are available in the newer models.

Toyota Corolla Performance Features

The Corolla ranks high in terms of fuel economy. The exact number of miles per gallon (MPG) will depend on the model year, but expect a range of 30–36 MPG (combined), according to the latest numbers from the U.S. Department of Energy.

If you’re looking to maximize your mileage, consider the Toyota Corolla Hatchback, which earns an estimated 36 MPG, or the Corolla Hybrid, which is the most fuel efficient option at 52 MPG.

The Corolla offers a relatively smooth, comfortable ride. Though it might not be the sportiest vehicle with the most powerful engine, it’s easy to maneuver and handles well.

Toyota Corolla Safety Features

The Corolla is known for its advanced safety features and high ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Many of the newer models feature the latest safety features, including:

  • Backup camera
  • Lane departure warning
  • Blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
  • Star Safety System
  • Toyota Safety Sense 2.0
  • Side-impact airbags

How Does the Toyota Corolla Rank?

Here’s how this popular sedan stacks up against similar vehicles:

2021 Toyota Corolla

2020 Toyota Corolla

2019 Toyota Corolla

2018 Toyota Corolla

2017 Toyota Corolla

The Toyota brand also received top honors from Kelley Blue Book for Best Resale Value Brand in 2021. In addition, the 2017-2021 Corolla models ranked by the NHTSA receive 5/5 overall safety ratings.

Corolla models since 2014 have been labeled one of the Best Used Cars for Teens Under $20,000 by Consumer Reports.

Toyota Corolla Model Comparison

2021 Toyota Corolla

There were a few enhancements and changes to the 2021 Corolla, including the standardization of Android Auto and availability of rear cross-traffic alert. According to a review on Kelley Blue Book, “the 2021 Toyota Corolla comes packed with safety and driver-assistance features that cost extra in an Audi, tech you still can’t get in a BMW, and refined driving manners that could have passed for a Lexus not that long ago.”

The 2021 Corolla is available in five trims — L, LE, SE, XLE, and XSE.

2020 Toyota Corolla

The Corolla was fully re-designed in 2020 to include updated styling, standard Apple CarPlay capabilities, and standard advanced safety features. You can still expect excellent fuel economy, in addition to a roomy back seat and a comfortable driving experience.

2019 Toyota Corolla 

There were no changes to the 2019 Corolla, but this was the year the Corolla Hatchback was introduced, replacing Toyota’s Corolla iM. This option offers a sportier alternative to the standard Corolla, though other hatchbacks may provide better traction in the snow.

2018 Toyota Corolla 

There were no major changes to the 2018 models. The infotainment system is easy to use, and the Corolla maintains excellent gas mileage and a high predicted reliability rating. Advanced safety features include forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking.

2017 Toyota Corolla 

The 2017 Corolla experienced a small interior and exterior refresh. Standard equipment, including Toyota’s Safety Sense features and rearview camera, are also included in this model year. The Corolla comes in seven trims — L, LE, LE Eco, SE, XLE, the 50th Anniversary Special Edition, and XSE. All trims are equipped with the Safety Sense package, which includes lane departure warning, pedestrian detection, and more.

Is the Toyota Corolla a Good Vehicle?

In a word — yes. The Corolla is a reliable vehicle that comes highly recommended. It offers above-average gas mileage, and its affordability makes it a great choice for first-time drivers. It may not be the sportiest compact sedan (or the most exciting to drive), and the engine may be sluggish and noisy compared to its competitors, but the pros outweigh the cons in terms of value, reliability, and safety.

Should I Buy a Toyota Corolla?

If you’re looking for a reliable, budget-friendly pre-owned sedan, the Corolla is an excellent choice that offers a smooth, comfortable ride. You can expect a stylish, safe, and efficient vehicle that lives up to its dependable reputation.

Cost of a Toyota Corolla

The cost will depend on model year, trim level, mileage, and overall condition of the vehicle, but in general, a pre-owned Corolla ranges from $18,000 to $23,000.

Toyota Corolla Insurance

Your car insurance will vary, depending on a number of factors. These include:

  • Driver’s age, gender, and marital status
  • Driving record
  • Make, model, and year of the vehicle
  • Annual mileage
  • State requirements
  • Credit history
  • Where the vehicle is regularly parked
  • Vehicle’s safety features
  • Type of insurance coverage
  • Deductible

The good news — you may be able to save with popular auto discounts, such as:

  • Safe driving records
  • Good student
  • New customer
  • Automatic payment
  • Anti-lock brakes and other safety features

Also, many insurance companies will offer a discount if you pay your premium in full and have bundled policies, such as homeowners or renter’s insurance or multiple vehicles.

Even though the rates will vary, here are some numbers to keep in mind, according to The Zebra, an insurance comparison site:

  • The average cost of insurance for a Corolla is $135/month
  • Insurance for a Corolla is $6 more expensive than the average vehicle
  • Annual price ranges to insure a 2020 Toyota Corolla ranged from $792–$1,632.

Moneygeek offers an average of $1,273 to insure a Corolla, noting that “rates can change by as much as $340 per year depending on how old the car is, with older models having cheaper insurance rates.”

Toyota Corolla vs. the Competition

The Corolla ranks in the middle of the pack compared to its competitors, which include the Honda Civic, Mazda3, Honda Insight, Hyundai Elantra, Kia Forte, and Nissan Sentra. Some of these options offer an enhanced style and a more fun-to-drive experience, in addition to ample cargo room.

The Corolla and the Civic are the only vehicles in this class to receive a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

In terms of cost, Corolla’s starting price is typically higher than the Kia Forte and Jetta but lower than the Mazda and Civic. The Civic’s backseat is roomier, whereas the Corolla seats are more comfortable.

If you want to stay in the Toyota family, consider the Corolla Hybrid, Toyota Prius, or Camry.

Find Your Next Toyota Corolla With Merchants Auto

Are you ready to take the Toyota Corolla for a spin? Whether you’re looking at this vehicle in particular or another type of compact sedan, we’re here to help!

Merchants Auto is the largest pre-owned dealership in New Hampshire. The inventory on our 26-acre lot is always changing. We have thousands of vehicles to choose from with more than 30 different makes — including hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, pickups, sports cars, fuel-efficient models, compact cars, and work vans.

We strive to save our customers time and money, and our ultimate goal is to provide an enjoyable and hassle-free car buying experience. We want you to be completely satisfied with your purchase, which is why Merchants Auto allows you to return your vehicle for a full refund within 7 days or 500 miles, whichever comes first.

Shop our inventory online or contact us today to see what we have in stock!

Posted in Models, Used Cars