Skip to main content

2023 Corolla vs. 2022 Corolla comparison highlights:

  • The 2023 Corolla will likely be more expensive than the 2022 Corolla
  • Both Corolla models are available as gas-powered sedans, hybrid sedans, or hatchbacks
  • The base 2023 Toyota Corolla is more powerful than the 2022 Corolla L
  • The new 2023 Corolla Hybrid adds four trim levels and AWD
Three versions of the new 2023 Toyota Corolla: the Corolla sedan, the Corolla Hybrid AWD sedan, and the Corolla Hatchback
The new 2023 Corolla family | Toyota
2023 Toyota Corolla2022 Toyota Corolla
Starting price~$21,000$20,425
Engine2.0-liter four-cylinder
Hybrid powertrain
1.8-liter four-cylinder
2.0-liter four-cylinder
Hybrid powertrain
Horsepower 169 horsepower (gas)139-169 horsepower (gas)
Torque151 lb-ft126-151 lb-ft
TransmissionCVTCVT6-speed manual
MPG Rating31 city/40 highway mpg53 city/52 highway mpg31 city/40 highway mpg
53 city/52 highway mpg
Body styleSedan/hatchbackSedan/hatchback
Trunk space13.1 ft³13.1 ft³
IIHS Safety RatingN/ATop Safety Pick+
NHTSA Safety RatingN/A★★★★★

2023 Corolla vs. 2022 Corolla: differences and similarities

2023 Toyota Corolla Hatchback in Blue Crush Metallic driving through a city
2023 Toyota Corolla Hatchback in Blue Crush Metallic | Toyota

Where they’re similar: 

The 2023 Corolla received a thorough refresh for the new model year, but not a full redesign. That means that the 2023 and 2022 Corolla models are more similar than they are different. Overall engine options and performance specs stay the same, as do cargo space and interior dimensions. Both models offer the Nightshade Special Edition exterior package on sedan and hatchback models.

Where they’re different: 

While this was just a refresh for the 2023 Corolla vs. the 2022 model, there are plenty of changes. One addition is an updated Toyota Safety Sense+ suite of safety and driver-assistance features. This new system makes the new Corolla an even better car for new drivers in 2022

The new model brings updated styling to the front fascia of most trim levels in the lineup, plus a few new colors. The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid offers new trim levels and, for the first time, all-wheel drive. The 2023 Corolla will likely be slightly more expensive.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla is available right now

Four 2022 Toyota Corolla cars, including the sedan, hatchback, and Corolla Hybrid model. There are significant differences between the 2023 Corolla and 2022 Corolla
2022 Toyota Corolla cars | Toyota

One major upside to the 2022 model is that this best-selling Toyota Corolla is available now. No waiting, no wondering, no refreshing dealer websites, or dealing with pre-orders. Although it may not be the newest, if you’re in a hurry to buy a new car, you may want to consider the 2022 model.

If you’re not shopping for a base Corolla L or an all-wheel drive Corolla Hybrid, the 2022 Toyota Corolla still offers most of the goods you want.

The 2023 Corolla Hybrid gets a power boost and a hybrid AWD system

Toyota gives the 1.8-liter four-cylinder gas engine the boot from the Corolla’s base model for 2023. That means that every new gas-powered Corolla will come standard with 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque from Toyota’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Last year, this powertrain was only offered on higher trim levels. 

Another exciting powertrain change for the 2023 Corolla lineup is the addition of all-wheel drive on the new Corolla hybrid sedan. This is an option that is not available on the 2022 Toyota Corolla Hybrid.

2023 Corolla vs. 2022 Corolla: Buy now, or buy later?

Raised infotainment screen of the 2023 Toyota Corolla compact sedan
2023 Toyota Corolla interior touchscreen | Toyota

You can’t go wrong with either one of these cars, but you can’t deny that the new 2023 Corolla packs a good wallop. 

It’s worth it to wait for the 2023 Corolla for the gas-powered L trim level for that extra boost of horsepower. In addition to that, it’s also worth the wait for any of the Corolla Hybrid models for the possibility of AWD and small upgrades to the hybrid system.

We estimate that the 2023 Corolla won’t be released until the fall or winter, like the 2023 Toyota Camry.

Related

2023 Toyota Camry vs. 2022 Toyota Camry: What’s Changed?