2020 Toyota Corolla vs 2021 Toyota Corolla

The 2020 Toyota Corolla, with its redesigned look, was not considered particularly attractive, resembling "malevolent aliens suffering hunger pangs." However, the SE or XSE trims with Celestite paint color improved its appearance significantly. The interior quality saw a notable upgrade, with soft-touch surfaces replacing the cheap, hard plastics of previous models. Despite these improvements, the transmission shifter reminded drivers of the Corolla's economy car status. The base price started at $19,600, with the top XSE trim costing around $28,800.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Corolla was arguably the most attractive in recent history, especially in SE or XSE trims. These trims featured sport-design bumpers, a mesh grille insert, a body kit, twin-outlet exhaust, and 18-inch aluminum wheels. The Celestite Gray metallic paint added to its appeal. However, some design elements, like the hood shut line and over-styled rear bumper, were still off-putting. The Corolla SE and XSE trims offered a more powerful engine and sportier features, with the XSE trim costing around $28,704.

The 2020 Toyota Corolla L, LE, and XLE trims were equipped with a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 139 horsepower, paired with a CVT. The SE and XSE trims featured a more powerful 169-hp, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine and a more sophisticated CVT with paddle shifters. The XSE trim's driving dynamics were well-tuned, offering a smooth and stable ride thanks to the independent rear suspension. However, the car struggled with acceleration, especially when passing slower vehicles or climbing mountains. The EPA-rated fuel economy was 31 mpg city, 38 highway, and 34 combined, with an observed average of 29.8 mpg.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla SE and XSE trims also featured a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque, paired with a Dynamic Shift CVT. The CVT used a mechanical first gear for better off-the-line acceleration. The Corolla sat on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, providing a low center of gravity and enjoyable driving dynamics. The XSE trim demonstrated predictable handling characteristics, making it a competent compact car. The EPA-rated fuel economy was 34 mpg combined, with an observed average of 31.1 mpg.

The 2020 Toyota Corolla's interior was roomy enough for a family of four, but the lack of rear air-conditioning vents and USB charging ports made it uncomfortable for children. The front seat lacked a height adjuster, making it less comfortable for shorter drivers. The trunk offered 13.1 cubic feet of space, enough for a couple of suitcases and additional bags. However, the lack of storage bins and small cupholders were drawbacks.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla XSE trim offered numerous upgrades, including SofTex leatherette seats with fabric inserts, front-seat heating, and an eight-way power driver's seat. The rear seat provided good support but had tight headroom and legroom, with no rear air-conditioning vents. The trunk also offered 13.1 cubic feet of space, with no handle on the inside of the trunk lid.

The 2020 Toyota Corolla featured the Entune 3.0 infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and a 3-year free trial of various services. The system was user-friendly, with a high-mounted touchscreen and physical buttons for easy access. The XSE trim offered additional features like advanced voice recognition and a JBL premium sound system.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla added Android Auto as standard equipment, joining Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The SE and XSE trims offered a nine-speaker JBL premium sound system and dynamic voice recognition. The infotainment system was simple to use, with physical knobs and buttons for easy navigation. The XSE trim's dynamic voice recognition was particularly impressive.

The 2020 Toyota Corolla came with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) 2.0, including adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, and Lane Tracing Assist. The system operated with impressive refinement, though the lane-departure warning alert was irritating. The Corolla received a 5-star frontal-impact rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla also featured TSS 2.0, with additional rear side-impact airbags and a blind-spot warning system with rear cross-traffic warning. The ADAS performed well, though the adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance had minor issues. The 2020 model's safety ratings were expected to carry over, pending re-testing due to the new airbags.