Trims and Powertrain

Interested drivers will have a choice of four 2023 Corolla Hybrid trims: LE, SE, SE Infrared Edition, and XLE. Their efficient powertrain consists of a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine paired with dual electric motors and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This gas-electric powertrain produces 138 horsepower, which is a 17-horsepower increase from last year. Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard, with all-wheel-drive (AWD) on all trims except the XLE.

The EPA-estimated fuel economy numbers for the FWD versions of the LE and XLE are 53 mpg in the city and 46 mpg on the highway, changing to 50 city/43 highway for the SE and SE Infrared Edition. An AWD-equipped Corolla Hybrid LE is rated for 51 mpg around town and 44 mpg on the open road (47 city/41 highway for the SE and SE Infrared).

Standard Features and Major Options

The LE balances typical base-trim attributes (fabric seats, a six-way manually adjustable driver's seat, a 60/40-split folding rear seat, a tilt/telescopic steering column, and 16-inch steel wheels with covers) with more advanced features such as LED exterior lighting, automatic climate control, power side mirrors, variable intermittent windshield wipers, remote keyless entry, and a 4.2-inch driver information display. The optional LE Convenience Package improves the list with proximity keyless entry, push-button start, 16-inch alloy wheels, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. The LE Premium Package includes everything from the Convenience group plus a power moonroof.

For a more distinctive Corolla Hybrid, the SE trim gets sporty exterior accents, a rear spoiler, sport seats with upgraded fabric upholstery, a drive-mode selector with three settings, proximity keyless entry, push-button start, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and 18-inch alloy wheels. The elective SE Premium Package will furnish a power moonroof and enhanced driver aids. The SE Infrared Edition adds a sport-tuned suspension, red exterior and interior accents, and 18-inch alloy wheels (it’s also eligible for the SE Premium Package). The top-tier XLE is equipped like the SE (minus the spoiler) with the Premium Package, adding unique body treatments, SofTex upholstery, heated front seats, a 7-inch driver information display, and 16-inch alloy wheels.

Advanced Driver Aids and Safety Technology

The newly updated Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 is issued on all Corolla Hybrid trims. This grouping of advanced technology includes pre-collision support with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, lane-tracing assist, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and road sign recognition. This updated system is now enhanced with proactive driving assist (with obstacle anticipation assist and deceleration assist) for more responsive braking and steering. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is standard on the XLE and optional on the lower trims (through their respective Premium Packages). A ten-airbag occupant protection system, hill start assist control, anti-lock brakes (ABS), vehicle stability control, and traction control are among the other standard safety features.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Infotainment for the 2023 Corolla Hybrid centers around an 8-inch touchscreen, supported by wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, Bluetooth, SiriusXM satellite radio, a sound system (six speakers), and multiple USB ports. A nine-speaker JBL sound system is standard with the XLE and optional for the SE and SE Infrared. The XLE also gets wireless device charging. All trims come with a trial subscription to various services, such as “Hey Toyota” voice access, cloud navigation, over-the-air (OTA) updates, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and Toyota Connected Services (for navigation enhancements, emergency support, and vehicle servicing and monitoring).