Toyota Corolla cars

About the Toyota Corolla

The Corolla is Toyota’s answer to the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus, and it certainly hasn’t disappointed the tens of millions of people who have bought one over the years.  

It first came out in 1966 and has gone on to become the world’s best-selling car, closely followed by the Toyota RAV4.  

Most models are now hybrid-only, making them appealing to both taxi drivers – who can’t get enough of them – and families who appreciate its fuel economy and comfort.  

It’s a great option for almost any motorist who needs something reliable for everyday use.  

Other than the Focus and Golf, the Corolla is also up against the Honda Civic, Mazda 3 and Hyundai Elantra. Some would argue that the Corolla has the edge thanks to its brilliant value for money and sleek appeal.

What features does the Toyota Corolla have?

Like all of Toyota’s models, the Corolla features a well-thought-out interior that offers great standard technology and comfortable seats.  

Every newer model comes as standard with an eight-inch touchscreen that's powered by Toyota’s Touch 2 with Go infotainment system. This system features a DAB radio, Bluetooth, voice activation, and Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.  

There are various different features across the different trims, with the GR Sport models being the flashiest with large wheels, sports seats, and a heads-up display, and the Excell model being the real range-topper.  

Because there are two different body styles of Corolla, each gets a slightly different boot size. The hatchback gets either a 361-litre or 313-litre boot, with the hybrid getting the smaller size because of its larger battery.  

Saloon models get a more spacious 470 litres of boot space, which tops that found in the Audi A3 saloon and BMW 3 Series.  

You can see the full range of features available in each model by checking our latest used Toyota Corolla listings.

What's the Toyota Corolla like to drive?

In its current form, the Corolla is available with the choice of two hybrid engines.  

The first is the more affordable 1.8-litre hybrid that produces 122hp, and is the same engine used in the tried-and-tested Prius model. This one is ideal if you’re after low running costs and a great all-round daily driver.  

There's also the 2.0-litre 184hp hybrid, which gives you that little bit more performance while still being economical.   

Both hybrid variants are fitted with the same automatic gearbox, while older petrol-only variants come with a manual gearbox and are slightly less efficient but still offer great durability.