Used Toyota Corolla buying guide
One of Australia’s favourite small cars, the Corolla is dependable, well-equipped, and sharp-looking. An exceptional entry level or city car, both new or used Toyota Corollas are loved for their compact size, smooth drive, and build quality.
If you’re looking for a hassle-free, straightforward car, you’ve got a solid selection to choose from within the Corolla range. It comes as either a hatch or sedan, and with options to go hybrid as well. The impressive fuel efficiency and good value of the Corolla is just one of the many reasons that Aussies choose it over competitors like the Ford Focus or Mazda 3.
At a glance
Toyota Corolla models: what’s included
Like most of Toyota’s cars, the Corolla also offers plenty of choices with its range of three sedans and three hatches, and hybrid options to match. Let’s take a look at some key features.
Corolla Ascent Sport / Ascent Sport Hybrid
The base model key features includes 16-inch alloy wheels, rear-view camera, Toyota safety sense suite, 4.2-inch display screen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bi-LED headlights, seven SRS airbags.
Petrol hatch models are equipped with a 2L engine paired with Dynamic-Shift CVT, while sedans have a choice of either the 1.8L or 2L 4-cylinder with either CVT or a 6-speed manual. They have a combined fuel economy of 6.0L/100km. For hybrid models, the 1.8L hybrid system engine delivers 3.6L/100km fuel economy. With a solid amount of features, the Ascent Sport doesn’t feel basic. It’s safe and stylish, designed for everyday comfort.
Corolla SX / SX Hybrid
The SX models include all the standard equipment from the Ascent Sport, and adds features like parking support brake, dual-zone climate control, and smart entry and start. The SX has a few more safety features like blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert, making it a great value-for-money choice.
Corolla ZR / ZR Hybrid (hatch only)
To fully deck out your Corolla, get the ZR that adds even more premium features on top of the Ascent Sport and SX. Some highlights: heated seats and lumbar support, 7-inch display screen, and 8-speaker JBL speakers. If you want the best Corolla Toyota has to offer, this is the one. It’s very much a driver’s car, offering a lively drive and all the value that a range-topper boasts.
Toyota Corolla: Hatch Vs. Sedan
Because both the Corolla hatch and sedan share a lot of the same great features, choosing between the Corolla hatch and sedan all comes down to what you value most. This may be how much space you need, performance, or lifestyle.
Many choose to buy hatches for its nimble body that’s convenient for zipping around the city, and for the bigger boot space with folding rear seats. If you’re looking for more legroom and trim options, then you'd want the sedan.
Is a used Toyota Corolla safe?
All models are equipped with Toyota’s safety sense technology, which includes technologies like pre-collision safety system, active cruise control, and lane trace assist. Thanks to Toyota’s commitment to safety, all Corolla models in the last decade have been awarded 5-star ANCAP ratings.
What are the benefits of buying a used Toyota Corolla?
Buying a used Toyota Corolla can get you quite a few benefits. First off, you’re getting a quality car, and at a budget-friendly price too! Toyota is known for the reliability and solid builds of their cars, so you can easily enjoy what a new car has to offer when you choose a used Toyota Corolla. As we’ve already covered, there’s also a lot to choose from when finding your perfect Corolla.
As for maintenance and repairs, you’ll also find that it doesn’t cost a lot to keep a used Toyota Corolla running smoothly. Most Toyota parts are also quite easily found at affordable prices, because of how popular Toyotas are in Australia.
Ready to explore our range? Start a search to reserve a used Toyota Corolla, or get in touch with our friendly customer service team who can answer all your questions from ‘Can I get car finance?’ to ‘Can I sell my car to Carma?’
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