2024 Toyota Corolla Sedan

2024 Toyota Corolla Review

　　Last year Toyota updated the Corolla sedan's infotainment and safety systems and surrendered the smaller 1.8-liter four-cylinder in favor of a 169-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder across all trims. And even though the Corolla was last redesigned for the 2020 model year, the 2024 Corolla will largely stay the same. The only exception is the returning Nightshade trim level, which was absent from the lineup last year. It includes blacked-out exterior styling elements alongside bronze wheels. Expect an all-new Corolla in 2025.

　　Like its big brother, the Camry, the Corolla is the safe choice in the compact sedan segment. Its reputation for reliability is strong but it's never been the most exciting small car you can buy. Its chassis and engine, though competitive, won't make driving enthusiasts light up like a Mazda 3 or Honda Civic Touring might.

　　The Corolla sedan comes with only one engine, while most competitors offer more powertrain choices. But the 2.0-liter four-cylinder makes more power and yields nearly identical combined fuel economy to the base engines in the Honda Civic and Hyundai Elantra. We measured an outstanding 40.2 mpg with this powertrain in a 2022 Corolla XSE. The Corolla is also only available with a continuously variable transmission, and all-wheel drive isn't an option unless you opt for the hybrid version, which we review separately.

　　The bottom line with the Corolla is simple: It's got a long legacy as a reliable and efficient compact car, and the newest model will likely live up to that legacy. But if you're looking for a small sedan that's lively and exciting to drive, there are several better choices. Check out our Expert Rating for our take on the Corolla's comfort, utility, tech and more.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Please note that this rating is based on a prior year and may change slightly once complete information about the 2024 Toyota Corolla becomes available.

　　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 synthetic 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.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below