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 headlightsLED daytime running lightsToyota 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 Display4x USB ports

XR (Above content plus:)

Bi-LED Auto high beam headlightsAuto rain sensingPark distance control front and rear with intelligent clearance sonar12.3-inch Multi-Info DisplayWireless Apple CarPlaySporty leather + Suede Seat Trim

Corolla Sedan Trim Features

XS

Bi-LED Auto high beam headlightsSporty leather + suede seat trimLED front personal lampToyota 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 seatsPowered driver seat with lumbar supportMulti-function display (7-inch)4x USBWireless charger

XR (The above content plus:)

Auto rain sensing wipersBlind Spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert and safe exit assistNew 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