A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4.1/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
3.8
Comfort & Interior
4.3
Running Costs
4.5
Practicality
4.4
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for a reliable family car that won’t let you down? The Toyota Corolla has been winning over UK drivers for decades with its legendary dependability and practical design. This compact saloon and hatchback sits perfectly in the family car segment, offering excellent fuel economy, strong safety credentials, and Toyota’s renowned build quality. The Corolla stands out from rivals like the Ford Focus and Vauxhall Astra with its hybrid powertrain options and exceptional reliability record. Whether you’re looking for a daily commuter or a dependable family car, the Corolla delivers the peace of mind that comes with Toyota ownership. The latest generation brings modern technology and improved efficiency while maintaining the practicality and value that made previous versions so popular. With low running costs, strong resale values, and a reputation for going the distance, the Corolla represents sensible motoring at its finest.
How Does the Toyota Corolla Drive?
The Toyota Corolla focuses on smooth, efficient performance rather than excitement. The petrol engine options typically range from a 1.2 litre turbo unit producing around 115 horsepower to larger 1.8 litre units with approximately 140 horsepower. These engines deliver adequate acceleration for everyday driving, with the 0 to 60 mph sprint taking between 9 and 11 seconds depending on the variant. They feel most at home in town traffic and on motorway cruising, where their refined nature really shines through.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
1.2L Turbo / 1.8L Petrol
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Power Output
115 - 140 bhp
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0-60 mph
9.0 - 11.0 seconds
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MPG Combined
50 - 65 mpg
- Boot Space
- 361 litres
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★★ (Euro NCAP)
Inside the Toyota Corolla: Comfort & Features
Step inside the Corolla and you’re greeted by a spacious, well designed cabin that puts practicality first. The dashboard layout is clear and logical, with large, easy to read displays and controls that fall easily to hand. Material quality is good throughout, with soft touch surfaces in key areas and robust plastics that feel built to last. The seats offer excellent support for long journeys, with plenty of adjustment to help drivers of different sizes find a comfortable position. Rear seat passengers benefit from generous legroom and headroom, making the Corolla genuinely suitable for adult passengers.
The Toyota Corolla is a paragon of reliability and practicality, excelling in comfort, fuel efficiency, and long-term value. Its hybrid variant stands out for seamless efficiency, while petrol engines prioritize smooth, composed cruising over thrills. Though not the most dynamic, it handles daily commutes and family trips with grace. Build quality and safety credentials are standout traits, making it a dependable choice despite modest performance metrics. A solid, no-frills option for those prioritizing peace of mind over sportiness.
How Much Does It Cost to Run a Toyota Corolla?
The Toyota Corolla shines when it comes to running costs, making it an excellent choice for budget conscious families. Fuel economy is a particular strength, with most variants achieving between 50 and 65 mpg in real world driving conditions. This means fewer stops at petrol stations and more money staying in your pocket each month. Insurance groups are typically moderate, ranging from group 10 to 15 depending on the engine and trim level, which helps keep annual premiums reasonable for most drivers.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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Toyota Corolla
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Ford Focus
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Hyundai i30
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £22,000 | £20,500 | £21,500 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 1.2L Turbo 115hp | 1.0L EcoBoost 125hp | 1.0L T-GDI 120hp |
| Power | 115 bhp | 125 bhp | 120 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 10.5 seconds | 9.8 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 58 mpg | 53 mpg | 55 mpg |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 361 litres | 375 litres | 395 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Excellent reliability, Hybrid options, Spacious interior | Sharp handling, Good tech, Competitive pricing | Long warranty, Practical design, Good value |
Toyota Corolla Practicality & Boot Space
The Toyota Corolla excels in practical everyday use, making it an ideal choice for families and anyone who needs a versatile car. The 361 litre boot is generously sized for the class, easily accommodating a weekly supermarket shop or several large suitcases for family holidays. The rear seats fold down to create even more cargo space when needed, and the loading area has a relatively low lip that makes lifting heavy items easier. Inside the cabin, you’ll find plenty of storage spaces for phones, drinks, and the various items that accumulate during family life.
We’ve had our Corolla for three years now and it’s been absolutely faultless. The fuel economy is brilliant and there’s loads of room for the kids in the back. It’s not the most exciting car to drive, but it does everything we need it to perfectly.
The Toyota Corolla stands out in the competitive family hatchback market by offering exceptional reliability and practical everyday usability. It combines Toyota’s renowned build quality with efficient engines, spacious accommodation, and low running costs in a package that’s designed to make family life easier. While it may not be the most stylish or exciting car in its class, it excels in the areas that matter most for real world ownership.