Corolla Sedan

Make
Toyota
Segment
Sedan

While attending the first drive event for the 2019 RAV4, Toyota revealed the all-new 2020 Corolla sedan. Before the covers were pulled off, Toyota dropped the news that the 2020 Corolla would also include a US-first hybrid model. Now, the 2020 Corolla Hybrid is making its debut at the 2018 Los Angeles Auto Show and it is the most fuel-efficient Corolla ever with an estimated 50-plus mpg combined. The Honda Insight may need to watch its back because Toyota finally has a decent looking hybrid that isn't a Prius.

Power comes from a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine matched to two electric motors through a CVT. Like the Prius, total output is 121 horsepower. Toyota says its new nickel-metal hydride battery allows for a boost in battery performance without compromising rear seat room or cargo space. The battery is fitted cleverly under the rear seat, where it is securely out of the way.

Toyota also claims drivers will be surprised by the Corolla Hybrid's linear acceleration. The battery assist provides a subtle boost of power when pulling away to eliminate the "rubber band" effect felt in some hybrids. Hybrid Corolla models will also feature an EV mode, which can be used at low speeds in parking lots. Drivers will have even further control of the car with Normal, Eco, and Sport modes to change acceleration response.

Stopping the Corolla Hybrid is an electronically controlled brake system, which balances the traditional hydraulic brakes with the regenerative braking force of the electric motors. Hybrids can sometimes have an uneven braking feel when the regenerative brakes kick in, so we'll be interested to see how the Corolla Hybrid handles itself under braking.

15-inch alloy wheels with low rolling resistance tires are unique to the hybrid model while the multi-link rear suspension found on other Corolla models is still present. Inside, the Corolla Hybrid features an eight-inch Entune 3.0 audio system as standard along with Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa integration.

As with other Corolla models, all hybrids will include Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 as standard, which includes pre-collision warning, radar cruise control, lane departure alert with steer assist, lane tracing assist, automatic high beams, and road sign assist. Full fuel economy figures haven't been posted but Toyota estimates over 50 mpg combined. The Corolla Hybrid will go on sale in Spring 2019 after the gas model goes on sale.