The Toyota Corolla Hybrid will enter the 2023 model year as an upgraded model, the automaker announced, and will be available in five different trim levels.
Debuting a more powerful hybrid system and available Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive, the 2023 Corolla Hybrid also gains new safety and multimedia systems, updated styling and new paint colors, the manufacturer said.
The Hybrid LE is now joined by a new LE AWD grade, SE and SE AWD grades and a premium focused XLE. The XLE grade is now only available as a hybrid for 2023. All Corolla Hybrid models upgrade to new Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 with new Proactive Driving Assist, including Obstacle Anticipation Assist and Deceleration Assist.
Next-generation Toyota Audio Multimedia equips all 2023 Corolla Hybrid models with an 8-inch high-resolution touch screen and added capabilities, including standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. All models add two rear-seat USB-C ports for a total of four in the car.
The SE trim gains new standard Smart Key, enhanced Sport driving mode tuning and red interior accents replacing blue. As an added value, all 2023 Corolla Hybrid models include Safety Connect and Service Connect up to 10-year trial subscriptions, Toyota said.
To commemorate the SE grade joining the enlarged Corolla Hybrid family for 2023, Toyota is offering the special SE Infrared Edition, with both FWD and AWD versions available. The new Corolla SE Hybrid grades (FWD and AWD) will inherit the Gas SE’s sport suspension and the firmer-feel Electronic Power Steering, Toyota designers said. The 2023 Corolla Hybrid SE Infrared Edition earns its name from the red trim accenting the exterior and interior, which will be paired with available Ice Cap, Midnight Black Metallic or all-new Underground exterior colors and standard 18-inch Gloss Graphite-colored alloy wheels. In the cabin, a red-stitched shift handle and red-accented floor mats and door trim add a custom look. The package is expected later this year.
All 2023 Corolla Hybrid models gain a more powerful Toyota Hybrid System. As before, the system pairs a 1.8-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder gas engine with two motor-generators through a planetary-type continuously variable transmission. A new compact high-output/low-loss drive motor for the transaxle/motor uses a redesigned magnet and electromagnetic steel plate configuration, with two additional magnets for increased output, Toyota engineers said.
The revised hybrid system boosts output to 134 hp (up from 121) and 156 lb-ft. of torque (up from 146), while EPA-estimated combined fuel economy reaches 47 MPG. The EPA combined fuel economy rating for AWD models is 44 MPG.
As on other Toyota Hybrids with AWD, Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive employs a separate rear-mounted electric motor to power the rear wheels when needed. It also engages the rear motor in response to slippage at the front wheels and enhances cornering agility by helping to reduce understeer.
