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Toyota Corolla

EPA MPG: NA
Average Retail Price
$3,325 - $3,675

RECALL ALERT:
There are 5 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

Road Test

While a good car, the Corolla is not one of the best in this crowded and competitive market segment. It does fairly well in most major areas of performance and design, but it doesn't stand out in any of them.

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2002 Sedans & Hatchbacks Reliability

No Data Available

Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap
Acceptable
IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver
NA
IIHS Side Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Side-Crash
NA

Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap
Acceptable
IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver
NA
IIHS Side Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Side-Crash
NA

Toyota vs. Other New Car Brands

Toyota vs. Other New Car Brands

Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap
Acceptable
IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver
NA
IIHS Side Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Side-Crash
NA

2002 Small sedans/hatchbacks Ratings

$3,325 - $3,675
economy-icon
EPA MPG NA
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$2,775
economy-icon
EPA MPG NA
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$2,775 - $3,425
economy-icon
EPA MPG 28 mpg
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$3,025 - $4,825
economy-icon
EPA MPG 34 mpg
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$2,850
economy-icon
EPA MPG NA
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
Features & Specs
Body Style
    sedan
Seating
2 front, 3 rear
Drive Wheels
Front
Engines Available
  • 1.8-liter 4 (125 hp)
Transmissions Available
  • 3-speed automatic
  • 5-speed manual
  • 4-speed automatic
Warranty
Coverage varies among versions of this vehicle

In most cases, automotive warranties are based on the vehicle identification number (VIN), and the warranty will be valid regardless of ownership. The dealership can tell you exactly how much warranty is left.

Read more about extended warranties
Model History
2020-
Current Generation

The redesigned Corolla sedan is fuel efficient, but the new styling has compromised the rear seat room and made it harder to get in or out of, because of its lower stance and curvier body. The hybrid version gets an impressive 48 mpg overall. Both the hybrid and the 1.8-liter engine accelerate leisurely, and the continuously variable transmission amplifies engine noise. A more powerful 169-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder comes on the higher trim lines and on the hatchback. Toyota improved the Corolla's handling agility without sacrificing ride quality. The controls are easy to use and Apple CarPlay compatibility is standard. Automatic emergency braking comes standard. Blind spot warning is an option, except on the hybrid where it's not available at all. This was remedied for 2021; blind spot warning and rear cross traffic warning became available on the hybrid model as a stand-alone package. A substantially refreshed model debuted for 2023, highlighted by exterior trim updates, adding the more trims to the hybrid line. The base 1.8-liter engine was replaced by a 169-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Sadly, the manual transmission option was dropped, but all-wheel drive became optional. All models came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen.

2014-2019
2014 Redesign Year

The 2014 Corolla grew in size, but continued to return a frugal 32 mpg overall. Interior room rivals some midsized sedans with a roomy rear seat. Ride comfort is commendable and handling is responsive. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) amplifies engine drone when climbing hills or merging, but is unobtrusive in ordinary everyday loafing around. The controls are simple and you get a touchscreen infotainment system, as well as all of the latest in connectivity. Automatic climate control comes standard on LE and above trims; this convenience is unusual in this class. 2017 brought standard forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking, impressive at this price. Overall, a recent vintage Corolla is one of the best used car values.

2009-2013
2009 Redesign Year

Redesigned for 2009, the Corolla grew a bit larger and acquired a significantly quieter and more economical 1.8-liter four-cylinder. Side curtain airbags became standard and provided much better crash protection than older Corolla models. Stability control became standard in 2010. Engines and transmissions operate smoothly, while the car gets a commendable 32 mpg. The ride is relatively comfortable and handling is secure but uninspiring. Although the interior is humdrum, easy to use controls and a relatively roomy cabin give the Corolla an edge over other small sedans. Even the mid-trim LE comes nicely equipped.

2003-2008
2003 Redesign Year
Historically, the Corolla has hit the small sedan sweet spot of practical size, good performance, and admirable fuel economy. As long as you're not looking for a fun-to-drive driving experience, the Corolla is a solid choice. It's one of the quietest in its class, but engine drone can sometimes be pronounced. Expect 29 mpg overall. While ride quality is absorbent and unobtrusive, handling is uninspiring -- though secure. The cabin offers good access and a decent rear seat, but the driving position is a bit compromised due to a steering wheel that's too far away. Stability control and side curtain airbags were rare options for the pre-2009 Corolla, so it might be tricky to find one thus equipped. Without curtain airbags, the car scored a Poor in IIHS crash tests. If your budget permits, we recommend a 2009 or later Corolla, as these provide much better crash protection.