The Toyota Corolla has been updated for 2023. Here’s how much you can expect to pay and what’s changed.
You can spot the new Corollas only if you look really carefully. The hatch gains a wider foglamp bezel. The sedan grille has received the smallest of changes. Both vehicles gain Bi-LED headlamps and daytime running lights. There are also some small cosmetic additions at the rear, with the hatch gaining some chrome, while the sedan gets a gloss-black piece on the bumper.
The hatch runs on 16-inch alloy wheels and a full-size spare (XS grade), while the XR has 18-inch units plus a space-saver. The sedan XS/XR HEV has 16-inch alloys and a full-size spare, while the XR has 18-inch wheels with a space-saver.
Sadly, the 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine has been discontinued globally. South Africa will be receiving two engines, all running a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The 1.8-litre hybrid petrol engine delivers 103 kW, which is a 14% increase over the outgoing motor.
The new 5th-generation hybrid system makes its debut on the Corolla and Toyota reckons a better driving experience with improved economy is on offer. A new 18.1 kWh battery is standard, which weighs 14% less than the 4th-gen hybrid setup.
The 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine has also seen an increase in outputs, with 126 kW and 203 Nm.
Customers will have 8 colours to choose from for the Corolla hatch, while the Corolla sedan has 7 shades on offer.
Corolla Hatchback Features
XS
- LED Auto high beam headlights
- LED daytime running lights
- Toyota Safety Sense (Pre-crash, Lane-keeping, Adaptive cruise control, Blind spot)
- New design display audio (Bluetooth, 6 speakers, reverse camera, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay)
- 7-inch Multi-Info Display
- 4x USB ports
XR (Above content plus:)
- Bi-LED Auto high beam headlights
- Auto rain sensing
- Park distance control front and rear with intelligent clearance sonar
- 12.3-inch Multi-Info Display
- Wireless Apple CarPlay
- Sporty leather + Suede Seat Trim
Corolla Sedan Trim Features
XS
- Bi-LED Auto high beam headlights
- Sporty leather + suede seat trim
- LED front personal lamp
- Toyota Safety Sense (Pre-crash, Lane-keeping, Adaptive cruise control)
- New design display audio (Bluetooth, USB-A, 6-speakers, reverse camera, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay)
- Front heated seats
- Powered driver seat with lumbar support
- Multi-function display (7-inch)
- 4x USB
- Wireless charger
XR (The above content plus:)
- Auto rain sensing wipers
- Blind Spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert and safe exit assist
- New design display audio with navigation and wireless Apple CarPlay
How much does the updated Toyota Corolla cost in South Africa?
All Corolla models are sold with a 6-services/90 000 km service plan (intervals set at 15 000 km). Petrol models carry a 3-year/100 000km warranty, while hybrid models hold an 8-year/195 000 km warranty plan. Service and warranty plan extensions can also be purchased from any Toyota dealer (220 outlets).
Corolla Hatchback
Corolla Hatch 1.8 Xs Hybrid – R 490 900
Corolla Hatch 1.8 Xr Hybrid – R 528 400
Corolla Hatch 1.8 Xr Hybrid Bi-tone – R 538 800
Corolla Hatch 2.0 Xr CVT – R 517 100
Corolla Hatch 2.0 Xr CVT Bi-tone – R 529 000
Corolla Sedan
Corolla 1.8 Xs Hybrid – R 502 600
Corolla 1.8 Xr Hybrid – R 521 800
Corolla 2.0 Xr CVT – R 517 100
