Toyota Corolla XLi sedan uses a 139-hp 1.6-liter four-cylinder that sends power to the front wheels through a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
The zestier versions have a 169-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder that pairs with a CVT or optional six-speed manual.
Toyota Corolla XLi sedan uses a 139-hp 1.6-liter four-cylinder that sends power to the front wheels through a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
The zestier versions have a 169-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder that pairs with a CVT or optional six-speed manual.
While all hatchbacks have the larger engine, only the sedan offers a hybrid powertrain. Our tests of the 2019 Corolla SE hatchback and the 2020 Corolla XSE sedan proved even the strongest engine doesn’t deliver adequate acceleration.
The Toyota twins were prudent around town and steady on the highway. However, hard acceleration produced coarse engine sounds that diminished their refinement.
Both the Corolla sedan and the hatchback have a pleasant ride quality that adequately isolates all but the worst bumps. Their controlled body motions also provide better agility than previous iterations.
The Corolla SE and XSE further separate themselves with a stiffer sport-tuned suspension and the latter’s larger 18-inch wheels (everything else rides on either 15- or 16-inch rims).
Still, compared with athletic and engaging rivals such as the Mazda 3 and the Volkswagen Golf, the Corolla’s progressive steering is satisfactory but not exemplary.
While neither Corolla body style had impressive results in our 70-mph-to-zero braking test—requiring between 174 and 183 feet—their brake pedals were dependable and easy to operate.
The Corolla uses a 169-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder that sends power to the front wheels through a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). While all hatchbacks share that same powertrain, the sedan also offers a hybrid powertrain.
Our tests of the Corolla SE hatchback and the Corolla XSE sedan proved that even the strongest engine doesn’t deliver adequate acceleration. The Toyota twins were quite prudent around town and steady on the highway, however. Unfortunately, hard acceleration produced coarse engine sounds that diminished their refinement.
The all-wheel drive hybrid model we tested hit 60 mph in a rather leisurely 9.0 seconds while the last hatchback model we had in for testing did it in 8.3 seconds.
Both the Corolla sedan and the hatchback have a pleasant ride quality that adequately isolates all but the worst bumps. Their controlled body motions also provide better agility than previous iterations.
The Corolla SE and XSE further separate themselves with a stiffer sport-tuned suspension and the latter’s larger 18-inch wheels (everything else rides on either 15- or 16-inch rims).
Still, compared with athletic and engaging rivals, such as the Mazda 3 and Volkswagen Golf, the Corolla’s progressive steering is satisfactory but not exemplary.
While neither Corolla body style had impressive results in our 70-mph-to-zero braking test—requiring between 174 and 183 feet—their brake pedals were dependable and natural-feeling.
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