The Toyota Corolla, a name synonymous with reliability and familiarity, requires little introduction. This updated review builds on insights first shared in June, with no significant alterations in pricing or specifications over the past six months aside from the phase-out of petrol variants.
In this revised edition, we present the latest information on pricing and features. You can access the original review here.
WATCH: Enjoy Paul’s video review of the 2020 Toyota Corolla Hatch ZR Hybrid.
The Corolla stands alongside the Volkswagen Golf as one of the most recognized vehicles globally. Having enjoyed a stint as the world’s best-selling car, Toyota has produced around 50 million units since the Corolla’s debut in the 1960s.
Chances are that you or someone close to you has owned or at least ridden in a Corolla—these vehicles are omnipresent, especially as they frequently populate rideshare services like Uber. Despite a challenging automotive landscape where passenger cars are gradually losing favor, the Corolla perseveres, consistently ranking among Australia’s top-selling vehicles.
This review focuses on the Toyota Corolla Sedan Ascent Sport Hybrid, the entry-level version of Toyota’s beloved small sedan featuring hybrid technology.
Known for its dependability and efficiency, the Corolla faces increased competition from emerging players, particularly from Chinese brands. For instance, the Corolla Sedan has a similar price point as the all-electric GWM Ora at $35,990 drive-away.
While not direct competitors, many Australian consumers are exploring unique alternatives. Does the Corolla Hybrid still hold its ground as a leading choice in this market?
Pricing Overview
The Corolla lineup has transitioned to hybrid-only variants, with the Ascent Sport Hybrid starting at $32,110 before on-road costs.
| Model | Price before on-road costs |
|---|---|
| 2025 Toyota Corolla Ascent Sport Hybrid hatch | $32,110 |
| 2025 Toyota Corolla Ascent Sport Hybrid sedan | $32,230 |
| 2025 Toyota Corolla SX Hybrid sedan | $34,920 |
| 2025 Toyota Corolla SX Hybrid hatch | $35,260 |
| 2025 Toyota Corolla ZR Hybrid hatch | $39,100 |
| 2025 Toyota Corolla ZR Hybrid sedan | $40,260 |
Interior Features
The Corolla excels as an economy vehicle, with the base model providing straightforward functionality and solid construction. Cost-saving measures are apparent in elements such as hard plastic door panels and a basic urethane steering wheel. Yet, despite its simplicity, the cabin is designed for comfort and practicality.
The driver’s environment features a straightforward 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster, while the 8.0-inch central touchscreen showcases Toyota’s latest interface, complete with standard navigation for hybrid models and seamless connectivity for smartphones.
While the technology may not be as sophisticated as that found in higher-end vehicles, it operates reliably and efficiently. A complimentary 12-month subscription to Toyota Connected Services enhances the ownership experience, providing services like emergency calls and vehicle tracking, albeit with a subsequent monthly fee.
With ample storage and user-friendly design, the Corolla proves well-suited for everyday tasks. Those utilizing the rear seats will appreciate the sedan’s expanded legroom, further aided by its longer wheelbase compared to the hatchback variant.
As for cargo capacity, the Corolla sedan offers a generous 470 liters of boot space, starkly contrasting with the hatch’s 217L, making it an excellent choice for practicality.
Performance and Driving Experience
Under the hood lies Toyota’s latest fifth-generation hybrid technology, boasting improved power and efficiency. The 1.8-liter, four-cylinder hybrid engine delivers a combined output of 103kW, supported by a new lithium-ion battery that improves power management and reduces weight by 14%.
In actual driving conditions, the Corolla Hybrid feels more responsive than its predecessor, showcasing improved low-end torque and an eagerness to engage in electric mode, particularly in urban environments where efficiency is critical.
Overall, the Corolla offers a comfortable and refined ride, with accurate handling and quality dynamics that reflect the enhancements brought about by Toyota’s New Global Architecture (TNGA). However, some road noise can be noticeable over rough surfaces, albeit not detracting significantly from the overall experience.
Safety Features
The Corolla boasts an impressive five-star ANCAP safety rating thanks to comprehensive testing. Standard safety equipment includes a suite of advanced features such as adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, and traffic sign recognition, all designed to enhance driver and passenger safety.
Conclusion
Enduring as a favorite for many, the Toyota Corolla consistently reinforces its reputation as a reliable, efficient, and spacious vehicle. This latest iteration, particularly the Corolla Sedan, stands out for its practicality and value, appealing to both individual buyers and commercial fleets alike.
In an era increasingly dominated by SUVs, the Corolla maintains its foothold, proving that even amid changing preferences, a well-rounded sedan can still carve out its niche successfully.
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Source:www.carexpert.com.au
