Image Source Toyota South Africa

The last year of 2022, the five-door Toyota Corolla was on sale for $23,550. Right now, the same version is on sale for $24,650. A price increase of $1,100 that is perfectly justified. In fact, we are looking at a compact hybrid with an excellent quality-price ratio.

And the reason why the offer price of the Toyota Corolla 2023 has increased by $1,100 is a profound technical and technological review of the compact Japanese hybrid. It has debuted a fifth-generation full-hybrid mechanics, and in this entry-level version, its combined power has gone from 122 HP to 140 HP. The reason is that its electric motor now develops 95 HP and its battery and electrical system have been thoroughly reviewed, with the aim of optimizing both performance and consumption. This is especially evident in the entry level versions.

Its 0 to 100 km/h has improved by no less than 1.8 seconds, reducing to 9.1 seconds. Its carbon dioxide emissions have been reduced by 2 g/km, lowering the approved consumption according to the WLTP cycle by 0.1 l/100 km. Its features are more competitive, and Toyota has also solved another of the Corolla's traditional gaps: its technological aspect. It now boasts a completely digital 12.3-inch panel and a new, latest-generation Smart Connect infotainment system with a 10.5-inch screen.

2023 Toyota Corolla: 18 Interior Photos | U.S. NewsImage Source Toyota South Africa

It has adaptive cruise control, a complete active safety suite – Toyota Safety Sense, with traffic sign reading or lane departure warning – and amenities such as a rear view camera, LED headlights or 16-inch wheels.

On all gas-powered 2023 Corolla models, the standard Dynamic Shift continuously variable transmission has distinctive performance thanks to a set of gears used as "first" gear for take-off acceleration, before seamlessly transitioning to the pulley system the CVT. The synchronization of the increase in engine revolutions and vehicle speed gives a sensation of linear acceleration.

Comfort for all occupants

The Corolla cabin offers an attractive design that surrounds the driver while providing a spacious environment for all passengers. High-gloss materials are combined with matte elements—silver accents with piano black tones and available contrast stitching—contributing to a premium look and feel.

Latest generation multimedia

All 2023 Corolla and Corolla Hybrid models debut a new standard 8-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia system designed and developed by Toyota's Connected Technologies team. The new multi-talent system offers a wide range of enhanced connectivity and convenience features and can be updated over the air (OTA).