Pros: Competitive pricing; pleasant interior with simple, straightforward dashboard layout; good close-quarters maneuverability; rear-seat legroom is among the best in the class
Cons: Not as quiet as class-leading compact cars; driving personality is rather bland compared to rivals such as the Ford Focus and Mazda 3; gooseneck-style trunklid hinges intrude on trunk space
CG Says: The 2019 Toyota Corolla Sedan is unchanged, but there is also a new Corolla Hatchback (see separate review) that replaces the Corolla iM. The 2019 Toyota Corolla Sedan is a compact with front-wheel drive. Two 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engines are offered. All models, except the LE Eco, are powered by a 132-horsepower 4-cylinder engine that is paired with a 6-speed manual or CVT automatic transmission. The LE Eco’s engine is tuned to produce 140 hp and better fuel economy. Its sole transmission is the CVT automatic. Available features include pre-collision system with pedestrian alert; lane-departure warning and mitigation; and adaptive cruise control. Corolla retains a conservative, practical character that appeals to a broad range of compact-car shoppers who just want reliable transportation. There are plenty of compact cars (including the Corolla Hatchback) that are more engaging and enjoyable to drive, and several that have more-upscale trimmings, but this mainstream Toyota’s unassuming personality and reputation for reliability will still attract many buyers.
Class | Compact Car |
Body Style(s) | 4-door sedan |
Passenger Count | 5 |
Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive |
Manufacturer | Toyota |
Nation of Manufacture | Canada |
Base Prices | L: $19,620 LE: $20,055 LE Eco: $20,455 XLE: $23,055 SE: $21,565 XSE: $23,800 |
Base Engine 1.8-liter 4-cylinder (L, LE, SE, XLE, XSE) |
Horsepower 132 |
Std. Transmission 6-speed manual |
Avail. Transmission CVT |
EPA City Range (mpg) 27-28 |
EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 35-36 |
Optional Engine 1.8-liter 4-cylinder (LE Eco) |
Horsepower 140 |
Std. Transmission CVT |
Avail. Transmission NA |
EPA City Range (mpg) 29-30 |
EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 38-40 |
Test Drive: 2020 Toyota Corolla XSE
Test Drive: 2020 Toyota Corolla Hybrid
First Spin: 2020 Toyota Corolla Sedan
First Spin: 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback
2018 New York Auto Show: 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback
Test Drive: 2018 Toyota Corolla SE
Quick Spin: 2016 Toyota Corolla S Premium
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Test Drive: 2014 Toyota Corolla S Premium