The Toyota Corolla Hybrid is an eye-catching sedan that was introduced for the 2020 model year.
Its known for its great fuel efficiency, stylish looks, and numerous standard safety features.
In this article, we’ll be running through all of the best and worst model years of the Corolla Hybrid.
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Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Toyota Corolla Hybrid Are:
The best Toyota Corolla Hybrid model years are 2024 and 2023. The worst model years of the Corolla Hybrid are 2022, 2021, and 2020. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.
What Are The Best Years For The Toyota Corolla Hybrid?
2024 and 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid
The 2024 and 2023 model years of the Corolla Hybrid are the best and most recent iterations of the highly esteemed Corolla lineup.
Both models, despite being relatively new, are trusted to be reliable, safe, easy to drive, and budget-friendly.
From just a single variant in the previous years, the 2023 and 2024 models now come in 5 unique trims: LE, LE AWD, SE, SE AWD, and XLE.
Pricing starts from approximately $24,000 to $28,000 for the various trims.
The entry-level LE trim, priced at $23,895 (brand new), is the most in-demand trim out of the available options.
We would also suggest getting the LE trim, but also with the optional LE Premium package upgrade in order to obtain some of the useful (non-sporty) features of the midrange SE variant without spending too much.
Our favorite safety features are Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.
These models also received a perfect 5-star safety rating from NHTSA (based on a series of standard crash simulations).
Fuel economy is amazing. EPA states that owners could reach 50 MPG for combined driving, 53 MPG for city driving, and 46 MPG for highway driving.
Regardless of trim, you will be getting a wonderful hybrid sedan fitted with a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine (134 horsepower).
This engine is mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and front-wheel-drive is standard.
All-wheel-drive, specifically for the LE and SE trim levels is available too.
2024 Corolla Hybrid:
- Edmunds: NA
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
2023 Corolla Hybrid:
- Edmunds: 4.4 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0
- JD Power: 83 / 100
2023 Corolla Hybrid, Edmunds review:
“Essentially gave up car shopping and bought a corolla hybrid. While initially there was a ton of regret it’s grown on me to the point I actually like this little car. You get a LOT of features found in way more expensive cars for your money. The interior is pretty nice looking and supremely quiet around town and even on freeways with good roads… Safety features are amazing for this class and Toyota was offering some sweet deals on price…”
Consumer Scores For Best Toyota Corolla Hybrid Years
| Model Year | EdmundsConsumer Rating | Kelley Blue BookConsumer Rating | JD PowerConsumer Rating |
| 2024 Toyota Corolla Hybrid | NA | 4.2 / 5.0 | NA |
| 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid | 4.4 / 5.0 | 4.2 / 5.0 | 83 / 100 |
Related: 6 Most Common Toyota Corolla Hybrid Problems (Explained)
What Are The Worst Years For The Toyota Corolla Hybrid?
Despite being on the list, it is worth noting that the following model years have received minimal complaints, recalls, and TSBs (technical service bulletins).
This means that the Corolla Hybrid lineup is relatively reliable, regardless of model year.
2020 Toyota Corolla Hybrid
The 2020 Corolla Hybrid was the first ever hybrid version of the Corolla ever produced.
It also holds the distinction of being the only model year with ongoing recall campaigns.
The first recall pertains to a faulty or misaligned seat belt assembly, possibly leading to a greater risk of injuries in the event of an accident or car crash.
The second (and last) recall revolves around a faulty vehicle stability control system and brake assist mechanism.
According to the available reports, these two issues are caused by a defective brake booster pump, leading to the deactivation of VSC and brake assist.
The 2020 Corolla Hybrid had a total of 9 TSBs and 2 recalls according to NHTSA.
Common problems:
- Audio-related concerns
- Unable to lock seat belt
- Loss of stability control
- Brake assist issues
2020 Corolla Hybrid
2021 Toyota Corolla Hybrid
While the 2021 Corolla Hybrid had 1 less TSB, it is also the only model year with an officially recorded complaint on CarComplaints.com.
Based on provided information and online forums, this model, along with a few other models from Toyota, can end up having a completely detached steering wheel when enough force is applied (such as in a collision or accident).
Below is a detailed story of one owner’s experience regarding the issue:
“I was traveling at 9mph, got rear ended and was accelerated to 36 mph on impact. My steering wheel came off, hit me in the face and wrist, and was in the back seat. My driver’s seat broke backwards, so when I sat up to regain control of the vehicle I was staring down a hollow metal tube. I had no driver’s airbags anymore, I had no way to steer away from danger, and I was rolling at 36 mph!
Luckily I brought the vehicle to a stop before going into the ditch. Toyota sent an inspector and they say the vehicle had no evidence of a defect… Lawyers don’t seem to think it’s worth their time since I wasn’t severely injured. I just want you as a customer to know that your 2021 Corolla Hybrid might eject its steering wheel in an accident, even one that’s not your fault.“
The 2021 Corolla Hybrid had a total of 8 TSBs according to NHTSA and 1 complaint at CarComplaints.com.
Common problems:
- Steering wheel came off
- Audio-related concerns
2021 Corolla Hybrid
2022 Toyota Corolla Hybrid
Alongside 5 TSBs, the 2022 Corolla Hybrid is the only model year to have an officially recorded complaint on NHTSA’s website.
The specific complaint alleged is quite unique, with an owner indicating that there was a structural design issue with the interior driver door pull handle.
While there was only one complaint, the owner made sure to specify that other owners of the same model year had experienced this concern.
For more information, refer to his report below:
“I bought a new Toyota Corolla Hybrid 2022. The interior driver door pull handle is so bulging, hard, and sharp, dangerous, that it hurts my left leg resting against it. It has already caused bruises and horrible leg pain. I’ve owned 2 previous Corollas from 2005 to present, but nothing like this. Toyota needs to go back to previous models or copy the Honda Civic. They should relocate the door pull handle and make it more safe. Cars should get better, not worse… Other friends who own this car have a similar issue…”
The 2022 Corolla Hybrid had a total of 1 complaint and 5 TSBs according to NHTSA.
Common problems:
- Unable to update vehicle firmware
- GPS issues
2022 Corolla Hybrid
Related: How Long Do Toyota Corolla Hybrids Last? (12 Important Facts)
What Years Have The Most Complaints?
| Model Year | Complaints (CarComplaints.com) | Complaints (NHTSA.gov) | Recalls (NHTSA.gov) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Toyota Corolla Hybrid | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2022 Toyota Corolla Hybrid | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| 2021 Toyota Corolla Hybrid | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| 2020 Toyota Corolla Hybrid | 0 | 0 | 2 |
What Problems Do Toyota Corolla Hybrids Have?
- Steering wheel came off
- Bulging interior door handle
- Loss of stability control
- Brake assist issues
- Seatbelt not locking
- Infotainment system problems
- GPS issues
What Are The Best Alternatives To The Toyota Corolla Hybrid?
| Make & Model | Score | MSRP | Fuel Economy (MPG) |
| Honda Accord Hybrid | 8.6 | $31,895 – $37,890 | City: 46 – 51 /Highway: 41 – 44 |
| Hyundai Sonata Hybrid | 8.6 | $27,950 – $36,250 | City: 45 – 50 /Highway: 51 – 54 |
| Toyota Camry Hybrid | 8.5 | $28,355 – $33,795 | City: 44 – 51 /Highway: 47 – 53 |
| Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | 8.3 | $24,400 – $29,000 | City: 49 – 53 /Highway: 52 – 56 |
| Toyota Prius Prime | 8.1 | $32,350 – $39,170 | Electric: 133 /Gas: 54 |
| Toyota Corolla Hybrid | 7.8 | $22,800 – $26,600 | City: 47 – 50 /Highway: 41 – 43 |
| Toyota Prius | 7.7 | $27,450 – $35,865 | City: 49 – 57 /Highway: 50 – 56 |
| Toyota Crown | 6.0 | $39,950 – $52,350 | City: 29 – 42 /Highway: 32 – 41 |
Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com
Related: 18 Best & Worst Toyota Corolla Years (With Facts & Stats)
References
https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/toyota/corolla-hybrid
https://www.edmunds.com/toyota/corolla-hybrid/
https://www.kbb.com/toyota/corolla-hybrid/
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2023/toyota/corolla/hybrid-se-awd
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Toyota/Corolla_Hybrid/
https://www.carproblemzoo.com/tsb/toyota/corollahybrid/
https://www.cars.com/research/toyota-corolla_hybrid/recalls/
