Toyota presents the new features affecting the entire range of the Corolla Electric Hybrid for 2023

Without a doubt, Toyota got it spot on in 1966 when it launched the first generation of the Corolla, a model that has held up remarkably well over time, adapting both to the needs and preferences of drivers and to the technology available. A good example is that there are now no fewer than twelve generations, with more than 50 million units sold worldwide, a record figure reached last year, which makes it the best-selling car in the world.

That is why Toyota never takes its eye off it and, every so often, introduces new features that keep it up to date, such as the one that concerns us now: a tune-up that does not affect the exterior or interior design to any great extent, but does bring important new features in terms of engines and technological and safety equipment that can be fitted, all of it obviously aimed at its three available body styles (hatchback, Touring and saloon).

The exterior changes focus mainly on the front, more specifically on the grille and the mesh that forms it, now with a new pattern in the mesh, as well as bevelled fog lights and the new design of the wheels. There will also be new colours: Graphite Grey will be available for all body styles, while the hatchback and Touring Sport will be offered in the new Florida Blue and the saloon in Mediterranean Blue. Both blues change their tone depending on the light they receive and the viewing angle.

Inside the Toyota Corolla, a more premium ambience will now be perceived, thanks to new graphics, inserts and patterns for the upholstery, surfaces and finishes, adding greater depth. But the leap in quality is also to be found in the technology, as the 10.5-inch infotainment screen now includes high-definition graphics and features an anti-glare mechanism, while the versions with the mid and top trim levels receive new designs (Casual, Smart, Sport and Tough) for the 12.3-inch instrument cluster.

It is also worth noting that, regardless of the body style chosen, the Toyota Corolla will also include as standard four years’ access to Toyota Smart Connect or Toyota Smart Connect+, depending on the version, which gives access to a cloud-based navigation system and real-time traffic and route information. The driver will also be able to use the new voice control with natural language recognition and, in addition, access a series of remote services through the Toyota MyT app. Nor should we forget that Toyota has also improved some of its driver assistance systems, which are available depending on the version chosen.

Mechanically, the Toyota Corolla will continue with its hybrid system, which can be chosen with a 1,800 cc or 2,000 cc engine, but both have now increased their power, reaching 140 CV and 196 CV respectively, allowing them to go from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.2 and 7.5 seconds. This increase in power is due to the fact that the energy control unit has been improved and the transaxle has been redesigned, and a more powerful, smaller battery has also been fitted, which reduces the weight by 18 kilograms depending on the version. The hybrid control has also been recalibrated, reducing the rotational speed of the combustion engine during acceleration, providing better sensations during the acceleration phase.

Toyota Corolla GR Sport

Apart from the rest of the trim levels, the GR Sport trim, which gives the Corolla a sportier image, has also been improved, both aesthetically and in terms of standard equipment. It now comes with new 18-inch wheels and a new rear bumper that also includes a new lower protection. Inside, the seat design changes, including the GR logo embossed on the headrest and new hexagonal micro-patterns on the silver strips that border the reinforcements and the central section.

In terms of equipment, the Toyota Corolla GR Sport will certainly be up to the mark, but for Spain Toyota has confirmed there will be a trim called GR Sport Premium that will include very interesting elements such as:

• Bi-LED headlights with Adaptive Dynamic High Beam
• Premium JBL audio system with 8 speakers
• 10-inch head-up display
• Blind spot detection with safe exit assist
• Toyota Skyview panoramic roof
• New exclusive leather upholstery
• Adaptive variable suspension (optional)

Toyota has confirmed that the new Corolla Electric Hybrid will be available in Spain in the first quarter of 2023, so when the time comes we will learn more specifically about its equipment and price.

Technical specifications of this car

SedanToyota Corolla12 versions · from 31,400 €