Already thinking about the 2024 models, Toyota has just announced the Nightshade Editions for the Corolla Sedan and hatchback. As well as being available on the FWD models, the new package will, for the first time, be available on the improved Hybrid AWD models, offering even the fuel conscious the opportunity to add style to their vehicle.
The Nightshade Edition was first introduced on the 2020 Corolla and became popular with customers. This is likely because it wasn't based on the top-spec model but rather a mid-tier trim that already offered everything a customer could want at a reasonable price. Following in the footsteps of the 2023 Toyota Camry Nightshade Edition, the most prominent addition is a set of 18-inch bronze wheels.
We're not sure why, but bronze wheels and Toyotas go together like cookies and milk. It just works.
The package adds black accents galore, starting with the badging. The sport mesh grille has a gloss-black finish, black-painted rocker panels, black-capped side mirrors, shark fin antenna, rear lip spoiler, and lower diffuser. The hatchback also receives a unique large black Vented Sport Wing and a blacked-out roof to make it stand out when parked next to an average Corolla.
No changes have been made to the vehicle's drivetrains or chassis, but that's okay. The current Corolla range is already a riot to drive, thanks to Toyota's TNGA platform. In short, they're more fun than any humdrum hatch or sedan has any right to be.
The 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine produces a decent 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque, although the CVT does tame the vehicle's sporty ambitions. The hybrid is better, albeit weaker, producing 134 hp and 156 lb-ft of torque. With an EPA-estimated consumption figure of 47 mpg combined, we owners will likely not complain too loudly.
Inside, the vehicles have sports seats with fabric inserts, a 4.2-inch color multi-information display, an eight-inch touchscreen, and Safety Sense 3.0 standard. There aren't many color options available, but they all work.
The sedan can be ordered in Midnight Black Metallic, Classic Silver Metallic, and Ice Cap. The Corolla Hatchback has more options, including two-tone paint combinations. The available hues include Windchill Pearl with Midnight Black Metallic Roof, Classic Silver Metallic with Midnight Black Metallic Roof, and solid Midnight Black Metallic.
A JBL premium sound system can be added along with the SE Premium package, which also includes a power tilt/slide moonroof, wireless charging, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Toyota says these vehicles will arrive at dealerships in the fall of 2023. No pricing has been announced, but with the 2022 Corolla Nightshade Editions starting at $23,225, expect a few hundred to a thousand dollar increase. Now if we can only get those bronze wheels on the elusive GR Corolla.