2023 Toyota Corolla Introduces New Hybrid AWD Model

The updated 2023 Toyota Corolla will arrive in Canada later this year with mildly revised exterior styling and a new available all-wheel drive system.

The new-for-2023 Corolla AWD utilizes Toyota’s electrified all-wheel drive system, which features a pair of rear-mounted electric motors to enable all-wheel drive, rather than a traditional driveshaft and transfer case, enabling AWD without consuming more fuel. Under the hood of these models is a 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine, funnelling its power to the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Customers will be able to order the Corolla Hybrid in LE AWD, SE AWD, and premium XSE AWD trim levels.

Non-hybrid 2023 Toyota Corolla models also get some small powertrain revisions, with the LE trim level introducing a new, more powerful 2.0L engine to replace the current model’s 1.8L. It produces 169 horsepower, up 30 horsepower from the outgoing engine, enabling quicker acceleration. Despite its larger displacement and higher power output, it’s also more fuel efficient, returning an impressive 6.8L/100 km combined.

Customers will also notice the 2023 Toyota Corolla has received a mild exterior styling update with new standard LED daytime running lights, a new grille, a different rear bumper and an added lower rear diffuser for the sporty SE and XSE trim levels. New 18-inch wheel options in Gloss Graphite will be available on hatchback models, as well.

Inside, the updated Corolla features a standard eight-inch touchscreen with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The screen runs Toyota’s latest Multimedia System software, which can receive over-the-air updates and also features a voice-activated AI assistant similar to Siri or Alexa. A seven-inch digital driver’s display is standard on the XSE trim level, with lesser models receiving a 4.5-inch driver information display screen.

As with most other new Toyota models, the refreshed Corolla comes standard with the Toyota Safety Sense suite of active safety features. This includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, radar cruise control and automatic high beams, among more. Customers can also order parking assist with braking and adaptive front lighting for a price premium.

Pricing for the revised 2023 Toyota Corolla will be announced this summer, the automaker says. Canadians can expect to see the updated compact car, including the new hybrid AWD model, arriving at Toyota dealerships late this year.