2023 Toyota Corolla Arrives With New Tech and More Power

Toyota has been on a roll lately, ushering in a host of updates to keep its extensive lineup fresh and appealing. The still-new Tundra recently received a new package, for example, while the Camry gained an aesthetically pleasing Nightshade edition. Now, it's the turn of the Corolla. The lineup arrives in 2023 with extensive changes such as an upgraded hybrid system, available all-wheel drive, enhanced styling, and more muscular gas engines.

For the Corolla Sedan, Toyota has added standard LED daytime driving lights across the range. LE models receive a new rear bumper, while the more spirited SE and XSE trims gain a sporty-looking rear diffuser and new 18-inch Gloss Graphite wheels. Along with the XLE, the SE and XSE are also privy to revised LED headlights.

The Corolla Hatchback hasn't been forgotten, either. A new grille with chrome trim and redesigned LED headlights freshens up the front facia while, round back, you'll find a new bumper. The tasty-looking 18-inch wheels are also available for the hatch.

New color choices for the sedan include Underground and Midnight Black Metallic, while the hatchback is now available with vivid Inferno and Blue Crush Metallic hues; the latter was previously only available on the sedan. The cabin has also benefitted from a series of changes, such as a new seven-inch driver's display on the XSE and XLE. Other trim levels make do with a smaller 4.2-inch item. Both are feature-rich and do, at least, allow for customization.

But the big news centers around the new infotainment system. The eight-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia system is now equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and Bluetooth; it's also capable of handling over-the-air updates. The available Drive Connect feature brings technology like Intelligent Assistant and Cloud Navigation to the fray, allowing for voice command and cutting-edge route guidance, respectively.

The SE, XSE, and XLE models can be specified with a nine-speaker JBL sound system which includes a 10-inch subwoofer and 800-watt amplifier. Lesser models come equipped with cloth upholstery, supplanted by SofTex in higher grades.

Other optional amenities include a wireless charging pad and ambient lighting which, when paired with the upmarket Piano Black interior trim, lends the cabin a plusher feel. But what of the changes under the hood? Well, there's plenty to get excited about. The gas-powered LE derivative gains a more powerful 2.0-liter engine with 169 horsepower, supplanting the 139-hp 1.8-liter unit.

Not only is it quicker than before, but more economical too. Toyota estimates a 34 mpg combined figure. But if excellent gas mileage is at the top of your list, look no further than the Corolla Hybrid. Now available with all-wheel-drive, the number of electrified offerings has grown to accommodate four new trim choices. The LE can be specified with AWD and is joined by the SE, SE AWD, and XLE Hybrids.

The specification may differ, but all electrified Corolla's utilize the same 1.8-liter engine with two motor generators. There's more power on tap; we expect it to mirror the 194 hp output of the all-new Corolla Cross Hybrid.

The newly designed lithium-ion battery is now housed under the rear bench, not only improving trunk space but handling, too - this change has lowered the Corolla Hybrid's center of gravity. Aside from traction control, eight airbags, and several other driver aids, all 2023 models have been bestowed with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0.

This comprehensive suite of safety features includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, radar-guided cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic high beams among other things. Those craving more safety kit will be pleased to know the Corolla is available with front and rear parking assist, as an optional extra.

Save for the Japanese-built Hybrid, the hatch and sedan will roll down the production line at Toyota's Mississippi plant. As the world's best-selling nameplate, these updates will only keep the Corolla at the top of its game. With the advent of the Cross Hybrid, there truly is a Corolla for everyone. Toyota hasn't announced pricing for 2023, but we don't anticipate excessive changes.