2022 Toyota Corolla

2022 Toyota Corolla Review

　　The 2022 Toyota Corolla is now in its 12th generation. When a car model lives that long, you know it's doing something right. For decades, the Corolla has been the compact car that's known as a good value with high fuel economy and a reputation for reliability. This latest Corolla still lives up to these core values, only it adds flashier styling and a more premium-feeling interior than its predecessors. The Corolla is also available as a hatchback or a hybrid sedan variant, which we review separately.

　　There are no major changes for 2022, but last year brought the introduction of the Corolla Apex trim, which adds a few performance enhancements, plus some cosmetic features that are exclusive to that trim. Altogether, the Corolla is worth considering alongside other small sedan rivals such as the Honda Civic, Kia Forte and Mazda 3. Take a look at our detailed Corolla Expert Rating below to learn more.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Average

　　7.4

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

Performance

　　How does the Corolla drive? Acceleration is a bit underwhelming for the class (0-60 mph took 8.8 seconds in our testing), which means you'll likely be flooring the pedal when getting onto highways. Passing slower traffic requires a little extra planning and a heavy foot. Emergency braking performance is adequate, however, and braking force is easy to control for smooth stops.

　　We tested the Corolla XSE, which is supposed to be the sporty trim level. Alas, we quickly discovered that it's not that sporty. It leans a lot when you go around turns, and its tires don't offer much grip. But as a routine daily driver, the Corolla does just fine. It's easy to maneuver around town, and the operation of its continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is generally unobtrusive.

Comfort

　　How comfortable is the Corolla? The Corolla's ride quality is smooth over a variety of road surfaces, and the front seats are comfortable. Whether you're tall or small, there are enough adjustments and sufficient range within those adjustments to find your preferred position. We do prefer the cloth seats since they breathe better than the available simulated leather on hot days.

　　Road noise is ever present. It gets so loud on the highway that you'll have to crank the stereo to overcome it. The engine sounds labored under hard acceleration, but the continuously variable transmission's simulated gear changes help reduce the droning sound that is otherwise typical for a CVT.

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