THIS UPGRADE HAS MADE ME LOVE IT! (2023 TOYOTA COROLLA HYBRID REVIEW)

EV Channels Review

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid receives a significant mid-life update, particularly to its powertrain, which has impressed the reviewer. While the exterior remains largely unchanged and somewhat uninspired, the interior offers functional improvements, including a snappier infotainment system and a new energy flow diagram. The SX trim, tested here, comes with an updated 8-inch infotainment display and a decent instrument cluster, though higher trims offer more. Positives include a comfortable ride thanks to the independent rear suspension and a refined driving experience, especially in EV mode around town, yielding impressive fuel economy (averaging 4.6L/100km in mixed driving, with potential for below 4L/100km in the city). The reviewer also praised the steering and the adaptive cruise control. However, the car is not without its drawbacks. Rear seat space and boot capacity (217 liters) are noted as significantly compromised, making it less practical than competitors like the Mazda 3 or i30. The seats lack sufficient lumbar support, and the reverse camera quality is deemed poor. Performance, while improved with the new hybrid system (103kW/142Nm), is still not exhilarating, with 0-100km/h times proving disappointing during testing. Despite these compromises, the reviewer concludes that the updated Corolla Hybrid is a compelling all-rounder for its price, especially for couples or individuals prioritizing comfort and fuel efficiency over maximum practicality.