May 3, 2019

The popular Toyota Corolla is getting even better. The first Corolla Hybrid will arrive in the spring of 2019 with all the updates of the all-new 2020 Corolla along with a hybrid powertrain. This sedan will come with the latest Safety Sense suite of advanced safety systems, new technology, and special hybrid badging. 

The Powertrain

The Corolla Hybrid will get the same Hybrid Synergy Drive system as the Prius. This includes a power-split transaxle with two motors that work alongside a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine. A nickel-metal hydride battery pack will charge the electric motors and combined the system will produce 121 horsepower. All the Corolla models will come with front-wheel drive and have Normal, Eco, and Sport driving modes to choose from. The Corolla Hybrid will also have an EV mode that will allow the driver to use pure electric power for short distances.

The Exterior Look

Toyota wants to make the hybrid version of the Corolla stand out from the rest of the models so it will come with its own 15-inch alloy wheels and feature special badging. New for 2020, the side mirrors sit up on top of the door to free up the glass just behind the windshield pillar, which also provides the driver with some extra visibility.

The Safety Systems

All hybrid Corolla models will come with Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.0 suite. This package includes systems such as forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, cyclist and pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning with steering assist, a lane-centering system, and adaptive cruise control with low-speed capabilities. It also has a road sign recognition system and automatic high beams.

All models also get a rearview camera, and it still provides all kinds of chimes and alerts for forgotten headlights, unfastened seat belts, and lane crossovers.

The Cabin

This version of the Corolla will come in just the LE trim which features soft-touch materials in the cabin and comfortable seats both up front and in the back. Toyota lowered the dash in the 2020 giving the driver better visibility. Storage in the cabin includes a cellphone cubby up front, two cup holders in the center console, and some small storage space under the armrest. The battery sits under the rear seat, which frees up the cargo area.

The Technology

The hybrid Corolla will also set itself apart from the regular Corolla models with its exclusive 7-inch instrument panel display screen. This will show the battery charge level and an eco accelerator guidance feature that helps the driver with the pedal operation to maximize their driving efficiency. All the Corollas will also come with the option for an 8-inch touch-screen display, Wi-Fi connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Amazon Alexa. The updated Corolla will also offer the option for Remote Connect with Apple Watch compatibility.

The 2020 Corolla Hybrid will go on sale in late spring 2019 along with the standard Corolla models. For now, only the sedan body style will come with the hybrid powertrain.