The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid: Cheaper to Run Than a Fully Electric Car
The 2023 Toyota Corolla is an impressive car that has received some exciting updates, particularly with its new hybrid drivetrain. This includes a more powerful and lighter 1.8-liter petrol engine and an improved electric motor. While the exterior changes are minimal, there are some minor updates to the front grille, fog light bezel, LED headlights, and new color options.
Inside, the Corolla retains its conservative design but now offers improved build quality, comfortable seating, and a new 10.5-inch infotainment system with better graphics and user-friendly interface. The 1.8-liter version of the Corolla provides good fuel economy and decent boot space, while the 2-liter version offers more power and efficiency.
One of the most significant updates to the 2023 Corolla is its hybrid drivetrain. The new system combines a 1.8-liter petrol engine with an electric motor, which provides a total output of 121 horsepower. This is a significant improvement over the previous generation, which only offered 90 horsepower. The new system also features a lighter and more powerful petrol engine, which provides better acceleration and fuel efficiency.
The Corolla's exterior design has also been updated, albeit in a subtle way. The front grille has been slightly revised, and the fog light bezel has been updated to give the car a more modern look. The LED headlights have also been updated to provide better visibility, particularly in low-light conditions. The car is available in several new color options, including Celestite Gray Metallic and Blueprint.
Inside the car, the Corolla retains its conservative design, but there have been some significant updates to improve the overall quality of the interior. The dashboard has been redesigned to provide a more modern look, and the materials used throughout the cabin feel more premium than in previous models. The seats are also more comfortable, with improved lumbar support and better cushioning.
The most significant update to the Corolla's interior is the new infotainment system. The car now features a 10.5-inch touchscreen display, which is larger than the previous generation's 8-inch display. The new system is more user-friendly, with better graphics and a more intuitive interface. The system also features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which allows drivers to access their favorite apps and music on the go.
The 1.8-liter version of the Corolla provides good fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 53 mpg in the city and 52 mpg on the highway. The 2-liter version provides more power, with an EPA-estimated 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. However, it is less fuel-efficient, with an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway.
The Corolla delivers a quiet and comfortable ride, with minimal road noise and good insulation from outside sounds. The car handles well, with good grip and minimal body lean. However, the acceleration can be sluggish due to the CVT gearbox. As a result, it is recommended to opt for the 1.8-liter version and choose the entry-level trim for better value.
Interestingly, the Corolla's fuel efficiency makes it potentially cheaper to run than a fully electric car, especially in urban driving conditions. The car's hybrid drivetrain allows it to run on electricity alone at low speeds, which reduces fuel consumption and emissions.
Despite its many strengths, the Corolla still faces stiff competition in its segment. The Honda Civic, for example, offers a more refined interior and better overall performance. The Mazda3 is also a strong competitor, with a more stylish exterior and better handling.
Overall, the 2023 Toyota Corolla is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable and efficient vehicle with some exciting updates to its hybrid drivetrain and infotainment system. The car's fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and user-friendly technology make it an excellent option for daily commuting and city driving.