2021 Toyota Corolla Hybrid
The Simple Sedan Made More Efficient
What used to be basic and boring is no longer the case. The compact sedan Toyota Corolla’s got swift contours with good proportions to stand out well in the modern car crowd. And the interior isn’t bad either with an overall clean and welcoming design. But its aesthetics is just the tip of the iceberg. What makes the Corolla really stand out among others is the availability of Toyota’s hybrid powertrain that’s promised to deliver exceptional fuel economy and reliability along with it. All without compromising the ride quality nor the practicality either.
We’ve witnessed automakers in the past attempting to hybridize an existing sedan platform by stuffing the extra battery pack in the trunk; thus, compromising cargo capacity. But this is certainly not the case with the Toyota Corolla hybrid as its nickel-metal hydride battery pack is installed underneath the rear passenger seat. The rear trunk offers full-size capacity and cargo space can be further increased with its 60/40 folding rear seats. Speaking of which, rear seating legroom is adequate for two full-size adults although a third passenger in the back will be a slightly tight squeeze.
Despite adopting the 1.8L four-cylinder hybrid powertrain from its Prius sibling, the Corolla feels different. While the Prius is an all-out fuel-efficient machine, the Corolla Hybrid is a bit more human-centric with base 16″ wheels that are upgradable to 18″ with the SE trim, a quieter cabin space and a more natural and balanced suspension setup. The Corolla Hybrid also picks up LED headlamps and available moonroof for enhanced cosmetics and added practicality as well.
Standard Safety Sense 2.0 continues to be one of the best perks that offers advanced safety tech that gets you pre-collission warning, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist and Road Edge Detection (LDA), automatic high beam, and dynamic radar cruise control.
An 8″ infotainment touch screen manages all multimedia business that is also compatible with Android Auto and Apple Car Play. Available Qi wireless smartphone charger and an upgraded 7″ Digital Speedometer display are available for purchase upgrade.
Rated at just 121 horsepower is not a lot by any stretch. But thanks to the instantaneous torque delivery from its electric motor, low-end acceleration is sufficient for most occasions and highway or lane merges didn’t prove to be an issue either when the engine kicks in at higher revs while working in tandem with the electric motor. Fuel economy scores an exceptional 4.5L/100km with up to 1,000 km of range in a single tank. That’s just shy of 0.2 L/100km compared to the Prius rated at 4.7L/100km.
Common to all hybrid powertrains in Toyota’s lineup is the CVT transmission that generally hasn’t received the most positive criticism in the car community. Despite the fact, the Toyota Corolla Hybrid works seamlessly well with it with smooth acceleration with the ability to remain at lower engine revs in city driving and highway cruising – an essential for ride quality and comfort.
Ease of driving was a notable accolade in a week’s worth spent with the Toyota Corolla Hybrid. Despite hauling an added battery pack and electric motor, it still felt light and nimble primarily thanks to its enhanced multi-link rear suspensions and added engineering efforts spent on developing a stiffer chassis.
The Toyota Corolla is only offered in one trim with a base price of just $25,090. An $2,000 premium package adds an 8-way adjustable driver seat, rear bumper protection, wireless smartphone charging, heated leather wrapped steering wheel, interior ambient lighting and upgraded Softex synthetic leather seats. That being said, the Toyota Corolla Hybrid doesn’t exactly fit in the bargain basement section and there aren’t any other trims to choose from. Still, its good looks, quality interior and exceptional fuel economy justifies the asking price destined to be a long-term keeper.
Specifications
- Vehicle : 2021 Toyota Corolla
- Model : Corolla Hybrid + Premium Package Upgrade
- Price as Tested : $27,090
- Vehicle Type : Compact Sedna
- Seating Capacity : 2+3
- Powertrain Configuration : FWD
- Engine : 1.8L 4-cylinder Hybrid
- Transmission : CVT
- Horsepower : 121horsepower
Pros
- Good overall and modern exterior design
- Quality and comforting interior
- Exceptional fuel economy backed by Toyota’s hybrid powertrain
- Feels light and nimble and easy to drive
Cons
- Lack of models and other options to choose from