BMW 5 Series vs Toyota Corolla Hybrid

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid presented a refreshed look with subtle updates, including a new all-wheel-drive option for most trims and a slight power increase. Its exterior design was more appealing than previous generations, featuring a sculpted front end with wraparound headlights and a sporty trapezoidal grille. However, the side and rear designs remained conventional. Inside, the Corolla Hybrid offered a minimalistic design with an abundance of hard plastics, which detracted from the overall quality. The XSE trim added SofTex synthetic leather, but the interior still felt less substantial compared to competitors like the Honda Civic and Mazda 3.

In contrast, the 2024 BMW 5 Series showcased a clean and minimalist design, both inside and out, with a large shiny grille and intricate 21-inch wheels. The M Sport bodywork added a touch of flair, especially in combination with the Carbon Black paint. Inside, the M Sport treatment extended to the interior with Smoke-colour Veganza artificial leather and aluminum trim, creating a modern and elegant cabin. However, the glossy surfaces caused reflections and glare, complicating the use of controls. Despite these issues, the 5 Series exuded luxury and sophistication, with advanced technology and a plush interior.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid was powered by a 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine paired with a hybrid drive, producing 134 horsepower and 156 pound-feet of torque. This was an increase of 13 hp and 10 lb-ft over the previous model. The Corolla Hybrid LE-trim test vehicle featured a new 40-hp electric motor between the rear wheels, providing on-demand AWD. The hybrid powertrain responded quickly from a standstill, but acceleration to 100 km/h took around nine seconds, slower than gas-powered sedans. The dedicated EV drive mode was challenging to maintain, and the engine's loud drone during acceleration was noticeable. Handling was adequate, but mid-corner bumps could unsettle the tires, affecting driver confidence. Road noise was present, and the Corolla Hybrid exhibited some unrefined characteristics.

The 2024 BMW 5 Series, specifically the 530i model, featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. A 48-volt mild-hybrid system aided efficiency, and the 530i accelerated to 96 km/h in 5.9 seconds. The engine was quiet and smooth, and the eight-speed automatic transmission shifted seamlessly. The M Sport suspension provided a supple ride quality, and the car was capable on twisty roads. However, the driving experience felt remote and muted, lacking the connection between driver and machine that BMW was once known for. Fuel economy was slightly below expectations, with the test car averaging 8.8 L/100 km.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid offered ample space for taller occupants in the front, though the steering wheel's limited telescoping range could be an issue for long-limbed drivers. The large windows provided excellent visibility, and the cloth upholstery was comfortable in warm weather. Interior storage was adequate, with a small tray for phones, cupholders, and a medium-sized centre armrest bin. Rear seats accommodated average adults, but headroom was limited. The trunk capacity was 371 litres, with rear seats that folded for additional space, though not flat with the floor.

The 2024 BMW 5 Series excelled as a luxury car, with a spacious interior that felt larger than a midsizer. The power-adjustable front seats were comfortable, wrapped in perforated Veganza artificial leather, and the heated front seats and steering wheel were standard in Canada. The rear seats were equally comfortable, with good legroom, headroom, and footroom. Interior storage was practical, with a tray for smartphones, door armrests, and a split-top centre armrest bin. The trunk offered 521 litres of space, though a spare tire storage box reduced cargo room.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid came with an 8-inch multimedia touchscreen, upgraded for 2023 with on-screen controls and improved responsiveness. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with enhanced voice commands and over-the-air software updates. The system could pair two Bluetooth devices simultaneously, but the JBL audio system was not available in Canada.

The 2024 BMW 5 Series featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system under a single curved display. The iDrive 8.5 system included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, connected services, and more. Gesture controls and voice interaction were part of the Premium packages, though the Intelligent Personal Assistant had mixed performance. The optional Bowers and Wilkins surround-sound system was visually impressive but fell short in sound quality. The Premium packages also included advanced parking assistance and an interior camera for remote monitoring.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with four stars for rollover protection. The IIHS named the standard 2022 Corolla sedan a Top Safety Pick+. The Corolla Hybrid came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, including frontal collision warning, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and more.

The 2024 BMW 5 Series came with standard safety features like forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Driving Assistant Professional Package added advanced features like adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist. The IIHS rated the 5 Series as a Top Safety Pick, though it did not earn the Top Safety Pick+ rating.