They are saying “if it ain’t broke, don’t repair it”, and Toyota appears to have taken that to coronary heart with its evergreen Corolla.
There’s good cause for that too, as a result of despite the fact that the present Twelfth-generation mannequin was launched means again in 2018, it’s nonetheless Australia’s best-selling small automobile by a really good distance.
With 11,322 deliveries to the top of July this yr, the Corolla hatch and sedan stays way more standard than it closest rivals, together with the Hyundai i30 (6472) and Mazda 3 (6443). Granted, the present i30 hatch dates again to 2016 and has been facelifted twice, whereas the most recent Mazda 3 hatch and sedan was launched in 2019.
However age clearly isn’t a difficulty for patrons, since these are Australia’s three hottest small hatchbacks by a big margin, led by the Corolla vary regardless of providing fewer decisions than ever following the axing of all non-hybrid variations of Toyota’s core passenger fashions final yr.
Then once more, it does have the benefit of a hybrid powertrain over the opposite two hatches, which isn’t in any respect frequent on this section. Past this, there’s the equally priced i30 Sedan Hybrid, whereas the Honda Civic and Cupra Leon hatches additionally supply hybrid energy however for rather more cash.
The present Corolla Hybrid has modified so little previously few years that the press automobile Toyota loaned to us first entered circulation as an up to date mannequin in 2023, which is why you see the model’s old-style ‘Hybrid’ badges as a substitute of the newer ‘HEV’ ones in our imagery.
Among the many 2023 updates was a refreshed 1.8-litre powertrain and a revised electrical motor to supply elevated energy, plus very minor beauty tweaks, new wheel designs, and a brand new infotainment system with linked companies. There have been no actual adjustments since then, apart from the removing of the petrol-only variants as talked about.
Regardless of this, even newer, smaller and considerably cheaper hatchbacks can’t get near the Corolla’s enduring reputation, even when its gross sales have been down 28.6 per cent within the first seven months of this yr. The brand new MG 3 (out there with hybrid energy) has discovered 5770 new houses in the identical interval, whereas one other comparatively new gentle hatch within the Suzuki Swift Hybrid has recorded 2279 registrations.
What’s it concerning the Corolla that retains bringing Aussies again? Is it badge loyalty, or is it merely that good?
How a lot does the Toyota Corolla value?
The SX sits in the midst of the three-level Corolla Hybrid vary, and the hatch physique model is priced at $35,260 earlier than on-roads. It’s the one trim degree the place the sedan is cheaper than the hatch.
| Mannequin | Value earlier than on-road prices |
|---|---|
| 2025 Toyota Corolla Ascent Sport Hybrid hatch | $32,110 |
| 2025 Toyota Corolla Ascent Sport Hybrid sedan | $32,320 |
| 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 |
For context, though it’s a wholly totally different kettle of fish, the GR Corolla scorching hatch is price a point out. It prices $67,990 earlier than on-roads for the guide, and $70,490 earlier than on-roads for the auto.
Not like its smaller however mechanically associated GR Yaris three-door sibling, the GR Corolla has the identical five-door physique as the usual hybrid hatch however comes with a number of bespoke panels just like the entrance fenders, entrance bumper, bonnet, and roof.
In any other case, the Corolla SX Hybrid examined right here is analogous in value to its equal i30 and Mazda 3 rivals. Evaluating hatch physique kinds solely, the i30 begins at $36,000 earlier than on-roads for the N Line, whereas the Mazda 3 begins at $31,310 earlier than on-roads for the Pure. The extra comparable Mazda 3 is the Evolve SP at $37,110 earlier than on-roads.
There’s additionally the Subaru Impreza 2.0R hatch ($35,990 earlier than on-roads), and the sedan-only Kia K4 Sport ($35,190 earlier than on-roads).
To see how the Toyota Corolla stacks up towards its rivals, use our comparability software
What’s the Toyota Corolla like on the within?
Dated, however simply as useful because it’s ever been.
Don’t look forward to finding many luxuries in right here, as a result of the Corolla is merely right here to serve a function. For that cause, you’ll be greeted with fabric upholstery and a plethora of laborious, scratchy plastics, however the cabin remains to be a pleasant place to be.
That’s partly on account of top-notch ergonomics. The seats and steering wheel supply a superb vary of adjustment, even when there’s no energy seat adjustment, which makes it simple to get snug. These seats are additionally cushiony, whereas the fabric upholstery is pleasant on chilly mornings.
Then there’s the leather-wrapped steering wheel that comes with the SX, which is completely sized when it comes to rim thickness and diameter, and feels good within the arms. Its buttons are completed in uninteresting black plastic and are totally bodily, which makes them simple to make use of on the transfer.
The one reminders that this can be a budget-oriented automobile include the opposite materials decisions right here, because the dashboard and steering wheel boss look low cost, and there are different nasty plastics right here and there – even when you shouldn’t be touching these areas too usually.
In entrance of the wheel is Toyota’s part-digital hybrid instrument show, measuring 7.0 inches in SX spec. There’s hardly any customisation right here, but it surely appears the half and gives a great deal of info utilizing the directional buttons on the left of the steering wheel.
The infotainment system to the left is a equally aged unit. At 8.0 inches it’s small by fashionable requirements, and it sits in a cumbersome piano black housing atop the dashboard.
It’s additionally surrounded by thick black bezels, with a small quantity knob on the suitable. The display is no less than sharp and responsive, powered by Toyota’s fashionable person interface and introduced in a graphic design that appears good and features reliably.
Smartphone mirroring can also be wi-fi as normal, and we had no points with Apple CarPlay apart from typical drop-outs beneath a few of Melbourne’s toll gantries.
Under that may be a bodily local weather management system, comprising a row of silver-finished buttons in a sea of piano black. There’s no doubting its performance and it’s far preferable to any screen-focused association, however that materials will get smudged very quickly.
Extra of it’s discovered across the gear selector, which was already trying fairly second-rate in our tester. The gear shifter itself is massive and completed in leather-based, and also you’ll discover a handful of bodily driving-related buttons close by, together with extra scratchy plastic.
Surprisingly, the SX is fitted with a wi-fi telephone charger in entrance of the gear selector, which didn’t get my telephone too scorching whereas charging. You’ll additionally discover a single USB-C port on the dashboard in entrance of the passenger seat.
There are two cupholders tucked beneath the comfortable central armrest, which covers a small storage field. Inside is a second USB-C port, however in any other case the cabin is a case of what you see is what you get – though I just like the closed-in atmosphere created by the black headliner.
That is particularly evident within the rear seats, because the window line swoops up in the direction of the again of the facet doorways. There aren’t any facilities like USB ports and even air vents again right here, which isn’t uncommon within the mainstream small-car section, even when the value level right here suggests it needs to be.
Rear occupants get extra of the identical fabric upholstery, which is extra susceptible to staining than different fabric trim if you happen to’re transporting youngsters. The bench seats are comfortable, however area for absolutely grown passengers is restricted as a result of automobile’s tight packaging.
Headroom is compromised particularly, whereas legroom will probably be advantageous as long as the entrance passengers aren’t too tall. The center rear seat is very squishy, and there’s a driveline tunnel regardless of this being a front-wheel drive automobile.
This homes the exhaust beneath, and the driveshaft within the all-wheel drive GR Corolla.
The boot’s comparatively small, and the Corolla’s compact rear-end makes for a slender load area. I managed to suit a golf bag and trolley in it whereas protecting the parcel shelf in place, however that was like a recreation of Tetris and there was no area left over for the rest.
At 217 litres, it’s a lot smaller than the cargo capability of the i30 hatch (395L) and the Mazda 3 hatch (295L). It’s even smaller than the notoriously compromised Impreza, which is quoted at 291L.
Nonetheless, you do get a big, flat load ground and an low lip to slip issues over when loading up. On both facet are deep storage cubbies, however you’ll need to take away the parcel shelf to suit taller objects.
You may cling the boot ground on the parcel shelf utilizing the ground’s hook and the shelf’s loop, which retains it out of the best way to entry the space-saver spare.
| Dimensions | Toyota Corolla Hatch |
|---|---|
| Size | 4375mm |
| Width | 1790mm |
| Peak | 1435mm |
| Wheelbase | 2640mm |
| Cargo capability (VDA) | 217L |
To see how the Toyota Corolla stacks up towards its rivals, use our comparability software
What’s beneath the bonnet?
Powering the Corolla vary is a 1.8-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine, paired with a hybrid transaxle to supply peak energy output of 103kW (Toyota doesn’t state a mixed torque determine). Drive is distributed to the entrance wheels by means of a constantly variable automated transmission (CVT).
| Specs | Toyota Corolla Hybrid |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.8L 4cyl hybrid |
| Engine energy | 72kW |
| Engine torque | 142Nm |
| Peak system outputs | 103kW |
| Battery | 1.3kWh li-ion |
| Transmission | CVT |
| Drive sort | Entrance-wheel drive |
| Kerb weight | 1400kg |
| Gas economic system (claimed) | 4.0L/100km |
| Gas economic system (as examined) | 4.0L/100km |
| Gas tank capability | 43L |
| Gas requirement | 91-octane common unleaded |
| CO2 emissions | 85g/km |
| Emissions normal | Euro 5 |
Our week with the automobile predominantly concerned freeway driving, but in addition included some suburban stints in heavy Melbourne site visitors, so we have been nonetheless very impressed that we matched Toyota’s gasoline economic system declare.
To see how the Toyota Corolla stacks up towards its rivals, use our comparability software
How does the Toyota Corolla drive?
The Corolla has lengthy been an unremarkable automobile to drive, no less than in garden-variety (non-GR) type.
Subsequently the ‘whitegoods on wheels’ label isn’t totally unjustified right here, however the Corolla is no less than a supremely environment friendly electrical equipment. Few automobiles match the gasoline economic system claims of their producers, however the truth the SX Hybrid did in our arms says lots concerning the prowess of Toyota’s hybrid powertrains.
The true-world gasoline consumption of petrol-electric Toyotas continues to impress us, because it did most lately with the most recent hybrid Camry. Relating to the Corolla, you’ll discover it’s easy and brisk sufficient beneath acceleration, providing acceptable efficiency for an economic system automobile.
The engine will make some noise if you happen to lay into the throttle, revving away in a dreary style that’s typical for a lot of CVT-equipped powertrains. Nonetheless, the hybrid system provides some poke, and the general expertise is indicative of a segment-leading hybrid.
You’ll discover the Corolla makes an attempt to drive in electrical mode the place potential, and there’s a button to lock it into that mode, though it deactivates past speeds of round 40km/h. This contributes to its economic system benefit, and there aren’t any complaints right here.
The Corolla additionally gives a well-balanced chassis, and it’s these stable bones that type the foundations of the very achieved GR Corolla.
Even so, some could also be pleasantly shocked by simply how properly composed non-performance variations of the Corolla truly are. Mainstream hybrid variations just like the SX don’t really feel sporty per se, however they do supply direct steering and a comparatively taut suspension setup that does properly to minimise physique roll in bends.
It’s additionally tough to unsettle the Corolla in regular driving, even on tough Victorian roads at 100km/h or extra. It evokes confidence, making it simple to drive the automobile in on a regular basis conditions with none sudden behaviour with regards to journey, dealing with, and braking.
There’s additionally a slight regenerative braking impact when charging the hybrid battery in ‘B’ mode. A handful of drive modes are on supply, with solely minor adjustments between every – Sport mode sharpens throttle response barely, Eco mode focuses on saving gasoline, and Regular mode is… properly, regular.
Supporting all this is a wonderful driving place and powerful outward visibility.
Small automobiles are often all the time simple to put on the highway, however the massive facet home windows make head checks within the Corolla simple, alongside the assist of blind-spot monitoring. You additionally get entrance and rear sensors in addition to an honest reversing digital camera to help with parking – there’s no surround-view monitor, although.
On freeways, you might have the benefit of adaptive cruise management, which doesn’t really feel fairly as superior as within the latest Toyotas, however does a superb job of matching the velocity of site visitors round you and reacting to adjustments in situations.
It’s rounded off with a lane-centring system that observe lanes properly. The automobile is hesitant to use sturdy steering drive round tighter bends, however the system is competent sufficient to be dependable nearly in all places else.
In any other case, every little thing’s largely as you’d anticipate for a Corolla. Refinement is sweet however not excellent, with highway and wind noise saved at acceptable however not low ranges.
The 16-inch wheels of the SX variant enable for tyres with extra compliant sidewalls, which iron out minor bumps like tram tracks higher than the 18s on the top-spec ZR. This contributes to raised general journey consolation and makes the SX excellent for on a regular basis commuting.
The Corolla’s electrical mode can also be good for lower-speed, inner-city environments, making it a convincing all-rounder as long as you don’t have to hold a number of cargo.
Its easy driver help techniques additionally imply there aren’t any beeps and bongs, and we’re joyful to report the automobile didn’t annoy us in any respect.
To see how the Toyota Corolla stacks up towards its rivals, use our comparability software
What do you get?
The Corolla is obtainable in three grades – Ascent Sport, SX, and ZR.
2025 Toyota Corolla Ascent Sport tools highlights:
- 16-inch alloy wheels
- House-saver spare wheel
- Computerized bi-LED headlights
- Computerized high-beam
- Heated, power-folding mirrors
- LED daytime operating lights and tail lights
- Material upholstery
- 4.2-inch instrument cluster display (sedan)
- 7.0-inch instrument cluster display (hatch)
- 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Wi-fi Apple CarPlay
- Wired Android Auto
- DAB+ digital radio
- Satellite tv for pc navigation
- Illuminated vainness mirrors
- Rear seat reminder
- 6-speaker sound system
- Air-conditioning
- Toyota Related Companies (12-month subscription)
- Keyless entry and begin
Corolla SX provides:
- 7.0-inch driver cluster show
- LED fog lights
- Electrical parking brake
- Rain-sensing wipers
- Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
- Leatherette-wrapped steering wheel, shifter
- Wi-fi telephone charger
- USB charging port
- Satellite tv for pc navigation
- Auto-folding facet mirrors
- Keyless entry and begin
- Privateness glass
- Distant local weather management pre-conditioning
Corolla ZR provides:
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- Tyre restore equipment
- 9-speaker JBL sound system
- Entrance sports activities seats
- 8-way energy driver’s seat incl. lumbar
- Leatherette seat accents
- Heated entrance seats
- Head-up show
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
- Ambient lighting
- Electrical sunroof (sedan)
To see how the Toyota Corolla stacks up towards its rivals, use our comparability software
Is the Toyota Corolla protected?
Toyota Corolla automobiles constructed from January 1, 2025 are ‘unrated’ by impartial auto security physique ANCAP, because the five-star score it awarded in 2018 has expired.
Customary security tools consists of:
- 7 airbags incl. driver’s knee
- Adaptive cruise management
- Autonomous emergency braking
- Pedestrian, Bike owner, Motorbike detection
- Junction help
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Emergency steering help
- Lane departure warning
- Lane hold help
- Lane Hint Help
- Site visitors signal recognition
- Reversing digital camera
- Protected exit help
SX and up add:
- Entrance and rear parking sensors
- Rear cross-traffic alert
To see how the Toyota Corolla stacks up towards its rivals, use our comparability software
How a lot does the Toyota Corolla value to run?
The Corolla is backed by Toyota Australia’s five-year, unlimited-kilometre guarantee, which extends to seven years for the engine and driveline offered the automobile is serviced on time and inside the Japanese model’s nationwide dealer community.
| Servicing and Guarantee | Toyota Corolla Hybrid |
|---|---|
| Guarantee | 5 years, limitless kilometres |
| Roadside help | $99 or $139 per yr, relying on plan |
| Service intervals | 12 months or 15,000km |
| Capped-price servicing | 5 years ($250 every) |
| Complete capped-price service value | $1250 |
To see how the Toyota Corolla stacks up towards its rivals, use our comparability software
CarExpert’s Tackle the Toyota Corolla SX Hybrid hatch
The Corolla continues to justify its segment-leading standing, even amongst a sea of sturdy rivals and eager newcomers.
There’s a level of familiarity that makes it simple for almost any driver to really feel snug behind the wheel, which can also be true for many different fashionable Toyotas. It’s this that makes the Corolla enticing for a broad vary of Aussie automobile patrons, who after dwelling with the automobile for quite a lot of days will begin to see actual advantages for his or her wallets.
Whereas the composed journey and assured dealing with will probably be a bonus for a lot of, dependable security and multimedia tech and nice-feeling inside contact factors will make long-term possession simpler. As you’d anticipate from Toyota, construct high quality is top-notch and, despite the fact that our tester had been abused by many journalists, we had no materials high quality considerations to talk of both.
All that makes for a automobile that’s simple to advocate, for the reason that hybrid system alone is sufficient to win tangible brownie factors over its direct rivals. In fact, a decrease asking value would additional enhance it, since a sub-$30,000 Corolla could be a correct commuter discount nowadays.
Aside from that, the Twelfth-gen Corolla hasn’t worsened with age, and the SX continues to hit a candy spot for a lot of.
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