I bought a black Corolla Hatchback in May of 2019. I've had zero problems with it so far. I absolutely love it. Great gas mileage, lots of cargo room, great visibility, handles well... I find myself driving it more than I do my sports car. (A Nissan 370z.) I bought the Corolla to replace my 2001 Toyota Celica, which I sold after it reached 200,000 miles. I think I like the Corolla more than I do the Celica, and I'm a huge fan of Celicas.
Edward Collins the Toyota master technician told me that the majority of the people are not changing the cvt fluid regularly. He said at 30k miles it must be changed.
@@haroldbeauchamp3770 Well, if that's all it is, I don't believe it's fair to describe the CVT as being a "turd" just because someone didn't change the fluid after THIRTY THOUSAND miles.
Edward Collins Edward Collins I believe the disconnect is that the CVT is unreliable and will ultimately fail without owner intervention. It’s not a matter of if, but when. Compared to a Toyota traditional automatic which can and will routinely achieve 100,000 miles or more without a fluid change. In fact, Toyota’s WS fluid filled automatic transmissions requires zero maintenance under most conditions per the owners manual. Toyota (and other CVT manufacturers) produce CVT’s without publicizing that the CVT is inherently an extremely finicky and sensitize unit requires maintenance that most are either ignorant of or refuse to complete. My local Toyota dealer has some CVT Corollas with as few as 12,000 miles with a complete failure of the unit. Most occur in the 45,000 to 55,000 mile range. As a Toyota fan, and multiple owner of reliable Toyota vehicles, this is not acceptable.
What a fine summation Alex. For those wrestling with the abject lack of rear passenger legroom, it must be noted that Toyota is only offering us 66.6% of their worldwide Corolla lineup. Their European Corolla wagon offers rear leg and cargo room by the acre or, more precisely, by the hectare. Japan's Corolla wagon is a touch smaller but offers a 50 mpg eAWD Hybrid option.
@@elai3147 True, it is just about the least practical compact hatch on sale. From the glimpses I have seen , the new sedan may be down on legroom as well.
@Right Lane Hog There definitely IS a market for a economical compact wagon in the USA. The reason these companies REFUSE to give customers what they want is because they make a higher profit margin on crap like their CHR cuv.
Hmmm Mazda3 Fiesta( aka Mazda 2), Fit, Sonic Turbo , Golf, new Rio, new Elantra GT , fun hatches are /were easily available and qiute cheap , no one buys them because they are not Crossovers
Really liked the review, I appreciate the comparison's you did for this segment. I just purchased a 2021 Corolla Hatchback XSE w/6 speed manual, silver metallic w/a black metallic roof and I love it, I would still buy the Toyota over any of the others. I have been burned by Honda on a 2008 Accord V-6, bought new. I did have excellent luck with a 2003 Civic automatic EX, great car and 185,000 no real issue miles an 15 years of ownership. to me the corolla hatchback is just a gorgeous little car and very sporty with the manual. I traded a VW Jetta Sportwagen TDI w/ a DSG double clutch Transmission and 80K miles on the odometer. I like wangons and hatchback cars. They just look better to me. I just got tired of the maintenance costs associated with German autos. Trust the Toyota Corolla. Go drive one in a manual, it is so much fun. Ride and handling are very good for this segment, independent multilink rear suspension makes a big difference and I think is pretty rare in this category.
Actually, Toyota announced the discontinuation of the Auris nameplate in Europe shortly after this vehicle was first introduced in Geneva. They have since gone on to sell the vehicle as the Corolla hatchback. However the Auris name still survives in Taiwan of all places
Bring the wagon ! The cargo space on this one is not even close to that of the old Matrix ( 49 cubicfeet ) . I miss the 70 cubic feet of cargo space that we found in the Xb .
I put red reflectors lengthwise in the fake exhaust outlets. I bought inexpensive self sticking rectangular reflectors at the autos supply and cut them lengthwise and stuck them inside the chrome outlets. They look great and factory perfect on my Black Hatchback XSE.
Mike Anoneemus you’re stuck in the 80s my friend. Toyota “quality” is only as good as the maintenance you’re willing to provide. Since the introduction of CVT transmissions in Toyota’s, master technicians will advise you to avoid ANY Toyota product with a CVT.
I just bought a 2019 XSE manual. I tested most of the competition and found the Corolla to be the best combination of interior and exterior design and execution, together with sound mechanicals. Your review and that on SavageGeese were the best and most informative available. Many thanks.
Alex and Mark (savagegeese) are the only reviews I watch. Alex for the detailed overview, and Mark for the no bullshit, value focused opinions. And for a look underneath the car. Nice choice with the Corolla hatch!
Hi. I sold the XSE and bought a Miata GT with MT. I thought the larger wheels actually improved the ride. Ditto the handling. I rarely used the IMT or rev matching as the clutch was so easy. I hope you enjoy your SE.
Thank you Alex. With a limited cargo area, a infotainment screen that looks like an afterthought and no Android auto... we are leaving Toyota for the first time in 30 years of ownership.
Toyota has bigger vehicles on sale if this one is too small, as for the infotainment screen .. that's a small price to pay to drive one of the most reliable car in its class.
They finally added android auto this year and the sedan has like an extra 10in of rear legroom. It comes out in march. I dumped toyota for a used volt because the 1.5 year old volt is cheaper in price, far better in performance, and cheaper to run. The corolla hybrid sedan had my interest until I learned they weren't going to offer the e-awd until next year and the current year won't be out until may. I traded in a 2009 toyota for a volt 3 weeks ago. It is made by a company I don't respect at all, but is the only good car chevy has, which is why they cancelled it. Loaded with more than enough warranty to be fully covered on the EV bits until 2024. Drive an EV, you won't want an ICE ever again.
Well done as a reviewer. I opted for the Corolla XSE with its CVT. Just couldn't get over the non body lines on the Mazda 3 hatch, and I test drove a Civic hatch, but felt it was oversized esp the length from the middle post to the from end, and disliked the rear styling, and of course I choose to stay from the turbo models (more costs in maintenance) if possible. Keep in mind (you didn't mention fuel injection types any of them use) the Toyota uses dual port and direct fueling which helps to prevent carbon buildup in the top end of the engine. These Direct injection only engines are having real issues with premature carbon build up, and coupled with turbos, it might completely drain you saving account to fix or repair one of these type engines let alone hugely effect your re-sale value.
We have the 2017 Corolla IM & just love it. Our other car is a leased 2017 Fusion Energi but as Ford has decided to discontinue that model we will be at a loss in 2020 when the lease ends. I think we will await the Corolla sedan to see how much room and comfort it overs in the hybrid model. Besides Toyota's reliability & resale value, the dealership service we are experiencing is exceptional. Great video as usual Alex!
@@rightlanehog3151 We shopped the Subaru Imprezza boring and overpriced. The Honda Civic ( I loved it but the dash was a clusterfuck of buttons and my daughter didn't like it) The IM we expected to hate but the second we got inside we realized how logically the car was laid out and it drove just fine for a new driver. Plus it was at least 6k cheaper then the Subaru and the Honda.
I fell in love with this car in July but have been patiently waiting for the roller bag test before pulling the trigger. I love your reviews, so thorough and unbiased. Thank you! Keep up the good work
I was a shopper in this segment over the summer. I bought a Civic type R. No regrets. Yes its almost double the price of all the base models in this segment, but its easily 5 times more fun to drive while sacrificing none of the practicality.
I know that you had previously reviewed the manual when it was first released, and it was also an excellent review. I was hoping you'd also review the CVT (I actually made a request at some point) and am very happy that you've done so. Thanks, Alex, and another stellar review
@@guyinnyc1 The road noise is likely from the cheap OEM tires that Toyota likes to slap on their cars to save a buck. Buy a set of Michelins, and the road noise should be greatly reduced.
@@watershed44 Beg to differ but to each is own. Height, handling, space for less cost in the base for the CHR. I don't know bud. Horrendous as you term is a bit exaggerated.
@Moe Anthony If Toyota would offer up the Corolla Wagon it would be no contest at all. If you look at value for the money the Corolla Wagon would positively spank the C-HR to the ground. Sorry the C-HR is horrendous and a piece of crap.
My eyes are on the previous toyota iM or civic hatch. Still have a bit of time before I save enough to change my mind, but I appreciate the corolla for staying "compact". Why are all these cars getting wider and larger?
Honda Fit would be a better and cheaper choice if practicality and price are major concerns. It's been pretty reliable after the quality issues in the Mexico factory have been ironed out.
I’m not a huge fan of the shape. The rear hatch should be more vertical. I think the Golf is one of the best looking hatchbacks out there because of it’s more traditional rear shape
It did look a little stubby in this video, but I'll withhold judgement until seeing a few in the wild. I think it's been available since July 2018, but I've still only seen a couple of them. One thing I can say - the front looks much better than some of Toyota's other tacked on monstrosities such as the iA.
Toyota just issued a recall - some torque converters might not have been properly assembled in certain vehicles equipped with CVT transmission. Even the mighty Toyota f up sometimes.
The Queen's Half Corgi there’s over 50 Corolla’s and CH-R’s at my local Toyota dealer service department waiting for a complete CVT replacements. Toyota reliability is definitely in question these days.
Harold Beauchamp at least they caught it right away I guess, rather than years down the road. Like Hyundai and Kia with their engines potentially catching fire.
The Queen's Half Corgi you’ve definitely got a point. These days I don’t give any auto maker any advantage when it comes to reliability. Toyota is living on a 40 year old marketing campaign of Japanese “reliability”. The bottom line is that all manufacturers release crap and it all requires maintenance.
Finally! I've been waiting for this review for a long time. Next time, please show us the cargo area WITH THE SEATS DOWN. It looked like that cargo area had little to no lift over - another thing worth mentioning in future videos. High lift over can sometimes result in back injuries and makes loading more difficult.
The Manual in this New Hatch is Outstanding! Perfect car to learn how to drive manual or for those purists and enthusiasts who love the engagement with the car. I will take the CVT in this one though! CVTs are brilliant, and can be super fun to drive when tuned right and have features for controllable shifting of different ratios. This one is awesome! 10 ratios in Sport mode with a launch gear. Way more fun to stay in the powerband on windy roads and corners. The CVT recall is a voluntary recall by Toyota and is related to the torque-converter!!! NOT The CVT parts of the tranny! This type of recall could happen with any regular geared auto just as easily if there was a flaw with the design of the torque converter. Toyota is doing the right thing for their customers and replacing the entire transmission with a revised torque converter. Not allowing any sale of models with CVTs until the new trannies are installed. You CVT Haterz need to chill, give the manufacturers time to refine them. Plenty of people love them! They drive smooth, some are fantastic for performance driving (like the one I have) they are faster, they get better fuel economy. They will be an integral part of cars moving into the future. All you “purists” can either accept that, or continue to drive manuals and shut up and let others who like CVTs enjoy them. Why bother with the hate? Get over it.
Spencer Burdett Nice, I’m stoked for you man! That’s a sweet whip! I’ll be grabbing mine this Summer... Are you gonna customize it at all or keep it stock? They’re almost perfect stock, but I have some ideas for mine when I get it. 😎🤙🏼🚗
Brodi Wheeler I’m gonna keep it stock I think the car is perfect for what I need a car to be and stock would keep its value higher haha, I’m excited for you as well! You’ll love the car 😁
Spencer Burdett I’ll miss my WRX and the AWD but I won’t miss the Subaru Service Drive and buying premium fuel... the ‘Rolla is perfect for what I need right now as well. Congrats Brah! 🤙🏼
I bought the Corolla (1 year used). The Honda and the Mazda felt better to drive, but the Corolla offered the best value by far and I like the styling better overall. Corolla interior looks great! I also think that the NA inline four and the Toyota CVT with a fixed 1st gear will be substantially more reliable than a turbo and the Honda CVT which I have heard has had issues. Excellent review, BTW~
Wow Alex! Nice music choice, such classic I think most people watching don’t know! My parents are big fan of the singer and I actually grow up listen to Teresa teng!
@@Kburd-wr6dq that’s interesting. Station wagons sell very poorly in North America. I’d wager Toyota created this pseudo-wagon to appeal to American buyers who see the description “station wagon” and promptly exit the showroom.
If we're to see toyota's HSD in the corolla hatchback and wagon, it should be a better value than any other car of this segment currently sold in europe. The fuel savings can't be ignored with how high fuel prices are getting, and with Diesel becoming more expensive than gasoline.
Really love this car. Huge fan of the size. The Civic is just huge now and I am not a fan. The Corolla has a great NA engine to boot. Really think Toyota nailed this. Just wished it had Android Auto but that's a very small gripe. I'm shocked that this is one of The few entries with IRS in its segment. Really top of class in my opinion given how expensive the Mazda 3 is and how ugly the Civic Is. Definelty would get the manual.
If they put the hybrid system in the hatch, sign me up. I saw an SE version while at the dealer the other day and while it’s shorter than some of the competition, it has quite a presence and a fantastic interior. Best interior since the 03-08 Corolla’s.
I have this car and love it. But people would really appreciate extending the vehicle a few more inches to make it a better modern family car. Just my take. But this may be done for a reason to not steal sales from the camry.
I think he replied to another comment long time ago that he studied mandarin long time ago so he listens to some Chinese songs. But he also said that he's practically forgot Chinese already, so it's just listening to songs right now.
I like corolla hatch but the new AWD Mazda 3 is quite interesting the new WRX is also on my radar. (living in Canada AWD is quite useful) P.S another pro is Corolla hatch is made in Japan
ALex, at what price you can get variable intermittent wipers in Civic? And what? Turbo engine is a Plus? I don't know about that. Yea, and when you get to Type-R this is beyond Civic. What does it have from Civic, even Si? - only body shape. Everything else is different
Got this exact car. XSE with the CVT. Agree with everything here. I had a civic hatch before. And it definitely had more room. I would say that if your family is bigger then two people. I would be looking at some other hatch that is a bit bigger. About all you can fit in the rear hatch is two carry on bags. And like the reviewer said here. If you turn them sideways. The hatch won’t shut.
i like the shape of the corolla and elantra hatch.. the civic hatch just looks too disproportionate compared to the sedan version.. a long hood line with a stubby back
I've got an 16 Scion IM and think the IM gives just enough room for rear passengers and has a hair over 20 cubic space in hatch. I've had passengers over 6 feet sit in back without an issue. Why Toyota decided to make the next generation of the Corolla hatch smaller is beyond me. How much of an effort would it have been to taken to take the last generation of the IM and upgrade the face and rear with this current body style without losing interior space. Love Toyota through and through and I love hatchbacks but I feel this is a tad bit too small compared to the previous generation of the IM. This probably why they made the CHR the taller version of the IM/Corolla hatch because it actually has the same cargo room as the IM.
I'm not a Toyota fan in general and if I were shopping in this segment I'd rank the Civic and the Elantra ahead of the Corolla Hatchback. But I'd put the GTI ahead of all of them. (But the GTI is really a different type of vehicle despite its similar size.) Nevertheless, the new Corolla Hatchback is miles ahead of the outgoing Corolla IM. And for those attracted to Toyota's reputation for reliability as their highest priority, I'm sure it will do well. Good basic transportation as a daily driver. Reasonable versatility of a hatchback. Not bad looking. Good resale. All the things Toyota is good at.
I don't understand why the U.S Market gets the low end versions of the Corolla. I have seen a version called the 2.5 G in India released a few years back which has the look and feel of a small lexus.
You forgot the Golf! Hopefully you’ll test a new one soon because it now gets the same power train as the Jetta! Consumer Reports averaged 34 mpg on the new Jetta with a high of 54 on the highway! That’s also with a totally “natural” conventional 8 spd auto, not an “artificial” feeling CVT.
Toyota uses Aisin transmissions (they own about 30% of the company). They are much more reliable than the CVTs used by Nissan (JATCO). Many other manufacturers also use the JATCO transmissions, so that is where many of the bad CVTs come from.
for a Compact sedan, I'd pick the highest trim of the Mazda 3 (great interior that gives the Acura ILX a run for the money). I'd lease a Civic Type R and buy a Corolla XSE-CVT
The 2019 Corolla hatchback works very well with software called open pilot. Open pilot is software that keeps you in your lane better that the lane tracing that comes standard and replaces the radar cruise control system. It allows you to drive hands-free in many cases. You can purchase the hardware at comma.ai in your web browser.
I'm torn. I like hatchbacks and haven't had one in awhile. The Civic looks ridiculous, and I'm over 40 so it just wouldn't look good. My favorite would actually be a Golf, for the visibility and room, and VWs have always scared me with reliability, but newer ones don't seem so bad. However, nobody buys Golfs, only GTI's, most dealers don't even have any, and rumor is it's cancelled in the US for 2020. I've owned 4 Mazdas, but the new Mazda3 I'm not warming to. The Corolla is intriguing. Wish it had more rear room and maybe 4 or 5 inches more wheelbase. The rear wing on the XSE looks ridiculous, and I live in a city with rough streets, so I'd lean towards the SE version with smaller wheels and more sidewall. I like the bling and the foglights on the XSE, which the SE doesn't have. I like a moon roof, but neither trim offers it. So I guess the best version for me would be the SE with all options, or an XSE with a wing delete and a wheel swap. Oh yeah, I love the color "celestite" that the new Corolla sedan is available in, but it isn't an option in the hatch. :-(
I bought the SE with all the options including that ridiculous wing but it was an mfr installed option I couldn't get rid of and I'm over 40 lol... Like the car but I would have opted for the XSE for the additional goodies except I didn't want the larger tires. Car rides great but wish it had a little more oomph on the highway. Road noise is suprisingly high too.
@@guyinnyc1 yeah the road noise is definitely loud at highway speeds. Not too bad at lower speeds, but on the highway can barely hear the music over it
I drove a Corolla for a rental once; liked the safety features. Having said that, the body design of the Mazda is much nicer. It really screamed more Italian than JDM. Toyota is just a mass market that everyone jumps on, for good reason, but I just don't like the looks. I do like the return of the hatchback; but if I were to that, I would go Volkswagen.
a liftback is what the civic hatchback is, basically just a sedan, a hatchback can range from this to the honda fit, and think kinda like a volkswagon for a wagon.
I bought a black Corolla Hatchback in May of 2019. I've had zero problems with it so far. I absolutely love it. Great gas mileage, lots of cargo room, great visibility, handles well... I find myself driving it more than I do my sports car. (A Nissan 370z.) I bought the Corolla to replace my 2001 Toyota Celica, which I sold after it reached 200,000 miles. I think I like the Corolla more than I do the Celica, and I'm a huge fan of Celicas.
Edward Collins hopefully it’s a manual transmission. The CVT is a turd and many are needing replaced.
@@haroldbeauchamp3770 No, it's not a manual.
At what point will my problems, if any, begin? I've had zero issues with it so far.
Edward Collins the Toyota master technician told me that the majority of the people are not changing the cvt fluid regularly. He said at 30k miles it must be changed.
@@haroldbeauchamp3770 Well, if that's all it is, I don't believe it's fair to describe the CVT as being a "turd" just because someone didn't change the fluid after THIRTY THOUSAND miles.
Edward Collins Edward Collins I believe the disconnect is that the CVT is unreliable and will ultimately fail without owner intervention. It’s not a matter of if, but when. Compared to a Toyota traditional automatic which can and will routinely achieve 100,000 miles or more without a fluid change. In fact, Toyota’s WS fluid filled automatic transmissions requires zero maintenance under most conditions per the owners manual. Toyota (and other CVT manufacturers) produce CVT’s without publicizing that the CVT is inherently an extremely finicky and sensitize unit requires maintenance that most are either ignorant of or refuse to complete. My local Toyota dealer has some CVT Corollas with as few as 12,000 miles with a complete failure of the unit. Most occur in the 45,000 to 55,000 mile range. As a Toyota fan, and multiple owner of reliable Toyota vehicles, this is not acceptable.
What a fine summation Alex. For those wrestling with the abject lack of rear passenger legroom, it must be noted that Toyota is only offering us 66.6% of their worldwide Corolla lineup. Their European Corolla wagon offers rear leg and cargo room by the acre or, more precisely, by the hectare. Japan's Corolla wagon is a touch smaller but offers a 50 mpg eAWD Hybrid option.
but unless they offer the wagon in NA then this hatchback is LESS practical than the outgoing sedan if you need the rear legroom
@@elai3147 True, it is just about the least practical compact hatch on sale. From the glimpses I have seen , the new sedan may be down on legroom as well.
Right Lane Hog you are absolutely right about the new sedan, it is basically this hatchback with a trunk
@Right Lane Hog
There definitely IS a market for a economical compact wagon in the USA.
The reason these companies REFUSE to give customers what they want is because they make a higher profit margin on crap like their CHR cuv.
@@watershed44 If VW can offer one there is no reason Toyota cannot.
A fun-to-drive car with a hatch that's ACTUALLY small? This is great. I miss the days when cars were smaller. Thanks, Toyota!
For a minute I thought your name might be thecontortionist .
Hopefully I can find a 6 speed Corolla hatch for my next car.
Mazda3 has been fun to drive and actually small all along
Honda Fit is 10.6 inches (26.9 cm) shorter, can hold far more people and cargo, is fun to drive, and gets comparable fuel economy.
Hmmm Mazda3 Fiesta( aka Mazda 2), Fit, Sonic Turbo , Golf, new Rio, new Elantra GT , fun hatches are /were easily available and qiute cheap , no one buys them because they are not Crossovers
Really liked the review, I appreciate the comparison's you did for this segment. I just purchased a 2021 Corolla Hatchback XSE w/6 speed manual, silver metallic w/a black metallic roof and I love it, I would still buy the Toyota over any of the others. I have been burned by Honda on a 2008 Accord V-6, bought new. I did have excellent luck with a 2003 Civic automatic EX, great car and 185,000 no real issue miles an 15 years of ownership. to me the corolla hatchback is just a gorgeous little car and very sporty with the manual. I traded a VW Jetta Sportwagen TDI w/ a DSG double clutch Transmission and 80K miles on the odometer. I like wangons and hatchback cars. They just look better to me. I just got tired of the maintenance costs associated with German autos. Trust the Toyota Corolla. Go drive one in a manual, it is so much fun. Ride and handling are very good for this segment, independent multilink rear suspension makes a big difference and I think is pretty rare in this category.
Agreed, I think the Corolla is the best hatch but it is a pity they won't sell us the wagon version which increases its practical appeal.
This is my favorite Toyota design since the MR2. I also love this color and that electric blue color also.
Best reviewer on TH-cam.
You should check out Savage Geese. Great reviews.
Actually, Toyota announced the discontinuation of the Auris nameplate in Europe shortly after this vehicle was first introduced in Geneva. They have since gone on to sell the vehicle as the Corolla hatchback. However the Auris name still survives in Taiwan of all places
Bring the wagon ! The cargo space on this one is not even close to that of the old Matrix ( 49 cubicfeet ) . I miss the 70 cubic feet of cargo space that we found in the Xb .
wagon w/ a manual would be my next car if it was available. This car is just a bit too short for a family of 4.
@@mbeutel5854 Good call.
Corolla wagon all the way!
@@py1211 Agreed!
Yes, and wagon in EU is hybrid.
Wow, didn't realize the back seat space is that small! Thanks Alex.
I put red reflectors lengthwise in the fake exhaust outlets. I bought inexpensive self sticking rectangular reflectors at the autos supply and cut them lengthwise and stuck them inside the chrome outlets. They look great and factory perfect on my Black Hatchback XSE.
Can you please post a picture. Would like to see.
How’s it holding up?
I'll take the Toyota reliability as the most important feature anyday when purchasing a car.
Mike Anoneemus you’re stuck in the 80s my friend. Toyota “quality” is only as good as the maintenance you’re willing to provide. Since the introduction of CVT transmissions in Toyota’s, master technicians will advise you to avoid ANY Toyota product with a CVT.
@@haroldbeauchamp3770 That's a lot of assumption along with interjecting your own opinion about something I wasn't even talking about. Good for you!
Mike Anoneemus thanks partner. I appreciate it :)
If you want the one true reliable car, choose manual rather than CVT, good for you!
@@haroldbeauchamp3770 Toyota makes the most reliable cvt
I just bought a 2019 XSE manual. I tested most of the competition and found the Corolla to be the best combination of interior and exterior design and execution, together with sound mechanicals. Your review and that on SavageGeese were the best and most informative available. Many thanks.
Eugene Tadie, really like that with the manual. Definitely considering it. How’s your real world fuel economy been?
Jesse James getting 32-33 in town and 38-39 on the highway. I generally drive gently. YMMV
@@eugenetadie9347, that's pretty impressive for a non turbo. Thanks for the info.
Alex and Mark (savagegeese) are the only reviews I watch. Alex for the detailed overview, and Mark for the no bullshit, value focused opinions. And for a look underneath the car.
Nice choice with the Corolla hatch!
Hi. I sold the XSE and bought a Miata GT with MT. I thought the larger wheels actually improved the ride. Ditto the handling. I rarely used the IMT or rev matching as the clutch was so easy. I hope you enjoy your SE.
I really wish auto reviewers would quit whinging about hard plastics. They're usually more durable and easier to clean.
Finally, a car I can afford that you are reviewing
LOL
And the funny thing is, in many ways this is a better car than most of the less affordable ones. Scotty K knows what I'm talking about!
The price of cars has spiked, unlike our salaries. That is the problem.
Thank you Alex. With a limited cargo area, a infotainment screen that looks like an afterthought and no Android auto... we are leaving Toyota for the first time in 30 years of ownership.
Or you can buy the corolla sedan... Honda is unreliable now.
Toyota has bigger vehicles on sale if this one is too small, as for the infotainment screen .. that's a small price to pay to drive one of the most reliable car in its class.
They finally added android auto this year and the sedan has like an extra 10in of rear legroom. It comes out in march. I dumped toyota for a used volt because the 1.5 year old volt is cheaper in price, far better in performance, and cheaper to run. The corolla hybrid sedan had my interest until I learned they weren't going to offer the e-awd until next year and the current year won't be out until may. I traded in a 2009 toyota for a volt 3 weeks ago. It is made by a company I don't respect at all, but is the only good car chevy has, which is why they cancelled it. Loaded with more than enough warranty to be fully covered on the EV bits until 2024.
Drive an EV, you won't want an ICE ever again.
They’ll welcome you back when the CorollaWagon comes to the States. AWD & Hybrids to come as well!
@@brodiwheeler7583 Once you go EV, you never go back.
Well done as a reviewer. I opted for the Corolla XSE with its CVT. Just couldn't get over the non body lines on the Mazda 3 hatch, and I test drove a Civic hatch, but felt it was oversized esp the length from the middle post to the from end, and disliked the rear styling, and of course I choose to stay from the turbo models (more costs in maintenance) if possible. Keep in mind (you didn't mention fuel injection types any of them use) the Toyota uses dual port and direct fueling which helps to prevent carbon buildup in the top end of the engine. These Direct injection only engines are having real issues with premature carbon build up, and coupled with turbos, it might completely drain you saving account to fix or repair one of these type engines let alone hugely effect your re-sale value.
We have the 2017 Corolla IM & just love it. Our other car is a leased 2017 Fusion Energi but as Ford has decided to discontinue that model we will be at a loss in 2020 when the lease ends. I think we will await the Corolla sedan to see how much room and comfort it overs in the hybrid model. Besides Toyota's reliability & resale value, the dealership service we are experiencing is exceptional. Great video as usual Alex!
I think the IM is larger also, My daughter loves her IM and I feel for $17,500 it was an amazing buy
@@hamerplayer1229 17.5 is a sweet deal!
@@rightlanehog3151 I got them to throw in all weather mats, cargo protector, Side mouldings, bumper protector and splash guards also
@@hamerplayer1229 The iM really flew under the radar and you really cashed in on that.
@@rightlanehog3151 We shopped the Subaru Imprezza boring and overpriced. The Honda Civic ( I loved it but the dash was a clusterfuck of buttons and my daughter didn't like it) The IM we expected to hate but the second we got inside we realized how logically the car was laid out and it drove just fine for a new driver. Plus it was at least 6k cheaper then the Subaru and the Honda.
I fell in love with this car in July but have been patiently waiting for the roller bag test before pulling the trigger. I love your reviews, so thorough and unbiased. Thank you! Keep up the good work
Sadly, this car will break your heart if useful cargo capacity is a priority :(
Right Lane Hog you are so unfortunately right ! :(
@@kimberlymackey1308 As I noted above, Toyota is denying our market better options for folks who don't need/want a CUV.
Honda make a better handling car
Toyota make a more reliable car
It's your money so pick what you want
Split the difference and go Mazda3
I think Honda is having an oil dilution problems I'm not sure if they fix that problem?
Do they have it in red?
djjoep100 yes they are. And Toyota has CVT problems. Mazda is the way to go.
@@djjoep100 yes bright red
I was waiting for this review for a long time! Thank you! Great review as always.
I was a shopper in this segment over the summer. I bought a Civic type R. No regrets. Yes its almost double the price of all the base models in this segment, but its easily 5 times more fun to drive while sacrificing none of the practicality.
I know that you had previously reviewed the manual when it was first released, and it was also an excellent review. I was hoping you'd also review the CVT (I actually made a request at some point) and am very happy that you've done so. Thanks, Alex, and another stellar review
I just purchased the SE trim and I love it. Great value for the price and I think it looks great.
Bought the same trim, like it a lot but I've been surprised at road noise level. Wasn't expecting so much of it.
@@guyinnyc1 The road noise is likely from the cheap OEM tires that Toyota likes to slap on their cars to save a buck. Buy a set of Michelins, and the road noise should be greatly reduced.
What a good review! I like the "for your consideration" bit, it's nice to check out the competition.
Rather buy this than the horrendous CHR.
You're not being very fair to horror when you compare it to the the C-HR.
@TheMichaelRN
No contest, the C-HR is a vile and horrendous piece of crap and it is more expensive too.
@@watershed44 Beg to differ but to each is own. Height, handling, space for less cost in the base for the CHR. I don't know bud. Horrendous as you term is a bit exaggerated.
@@moeanthony9308 the Corolla has more power handles better & the interior is miles better than interior of the CHR. Corolla hatchback wins easily.
@Moe Anthony
If Toyota would offer up the Corolla Wagon it would be no contest at all. If you look at value for the money the Corolla Wagon would positively spank the C-HR to the ground. Sorry the C-HR is horrendous and a piece of crap.
I'M TOTALLY IN LOVE with this car 😍 too BAD I could only AFFORD the sedan, but I LOVE IT TOO 😅
My eyes are on the previous toyota iM or civic hatch. Still have a bit of time before I save enough to change my mind, but I appreciate the corolla for staying "compact". Why are all these cars getting wider and larger?
Good question, why are people getting wider and larger?
Honda Fit would be a better and cheaper choice if practicality and price are major concerns. It's been pretty reliable after the quality issues in the Mexico factory have been ironed out.
I’m not a huge fan of the shape. The rear hatch should be more vertical. I think the Golf is one of the best looking hatchbacks out there because of it’s more traditional rear shape
This is closer to a Yaris hatch than a Matrix.
There is nothing more boring than a Golf.. well, except maybe the old Corolla.
If this was roomier id totally buy one
It did look a little stubby in this video, but I'll withhold judgement until seeing a few in the wild. I think it's been available since July 2018, but I've still only seen a couple of them. One thing I can say - the front looks much better than some of Toyota's other tacked on monstrosities such as the iA.
Reminded me of a Vauxhall somehow, very european style.
Loving the position of the video camera, behind the car.
As an individual who has owned 3 Toyotas and 4 Hondas, I have had more reliability success with the Toyotas. Time to get another Toyota.
Definitely the Niro is the way to go!!!!
Toyota just issued a recall - some torque converters might not have been properly assembled in certain vehicles equipped with CVT transmission. Even the mighty Toyota f up sometimes.
The Queen's Half Corgi there’s over 50 Corolla’s and CH-R’s at my local Toyota dealer service department waiting for a complete CVT replacements. Toyota reliability is definitely in question these days.
Harold Beauchamp at least they caught it right away I guess, rather than years down the road. Like Hyundai and Kia with their engines potentially catching fire.
The Queen's Half Corgi you’ve definitely got a point. These days I don’t give any auto maker any advantage when it comes to reliability. Toyota is living on a 40 year old marketing campaign of Japanese “reliability”. The bottom line is that all manufacturers release crap and it all requires maintenance.
Harold Beauchamp 🤣👏
Finally! I've been waiting for this review for a long time. Next time, please show us the cargo area WITH THE SEATS DOWN. It looked like that cargo area had little to no lift over - another thing worth mentioning in future videos. High lift over can sometimes result in back injuries and makes loading more difficult.
honestly If this has a hybrid version this would be my next car!
In Europe, they get the Hybrid wagon version, which is way more practical ,efficient, and better looking.
@@ro0ster648 Good point but they also get hybrid hatches. I am not sure about the hybrid sedan.
This is the only comparison video I needed. Thank you!!!
TOYOTA IS THE BEST
My next car for sure. Thanks for the review.
8:39 teresa teng!!! i love her music and i have this exact configuration of the hatchback !
This car would definitely be sold in Croatia, but the model available to us is a sedan version with little equipment.
Other parts of Europe get the new Corolla sedan, hatch and wagon in petrol and hybrid. Why is Croatia being shortchanged?
Love my red beauty, run and get yours.
The Manual in this New Hatch is Outstanding! Perfect car to learn how to drive manual or for those purists and enthusiasts who love the engagement with the car.
I will take the CVT in this one though! CVTs are brilliant, and can be super fun to drive when tuned right and have features for controllable shifting of different ratios. This one is awesome! 10 ratios in Sport mode with a launch gear. Way more fun to stay in the powerband on windy roads and corners.
The CVT recall is a voluntary recall by Toyota and is related to the torque-converter!!! NOT The CVT parts of the tranny! This type of recall could happen with any regular geared auto just as easily if there was a flaw with the design of the torque converter.
Toyota is doing the right thing for their customers and replacing the entire transmission with a revised torque converter. Not allowing any sale of models with CVTs until the new trannies are installed.
You CVT Haterz need to chill, give the manufacturers time to refine them. Plenty of people love them! They drive smooth, some are fantastic for performance driving (like the one I have) they are faster, they get better fuel economy. They will be an integral part of cars moving into the future. All you “purists” can either accept that, or continue to drive manuals and shut up and let others who like CVTs enjoy them. Why bother with the hate? Get over it.
I just got the SE Hatchback CVT and I swear best corolla ever!
Spencer Burdett Nice, I’m stoked for you man! That’s a sweet whip! I’ll be grabbing mine this Summer... Are you gonna customize it at all or keep it stock? They’re almost perfect stock, but I have some ideas for mine when I get it.
😎🤙🏼🚗
Brodi Wheeler I’m gonna keep it stock I think the car is perfect for what I need a car to be and stock would keep its value higher haha, I’m excited for you as well! You’ll love the car 😁
Spencer Burdett I’ll miss my WRX and the AWD but I won’t miss the Subaru Service Drive and buying premium fuel... the ‘Rolla is perfect for what I need right now as well. Congrats Brah! 🤙🏼
Aww yea the WRX is a sweet ride but the maintenance and having to get premium are downsides, thanks bro!!!
I bought the Corolla (1 year used). The Honda and the Mazda felt better to drive, but the Corolla offered the best value by far and I like the styling better overall. Corolla interior looks great!
I also think that the NA inline four and the Toyota CVT with a fixed 1st gear will be substantially more reliable than a turbo and the Honda CVT which I have heard has had issues.
Excellent review, BTW~
I got the 2020 Corolla hatchback SE and love it! It was very affordable - $21,000 with the BSM and CVT than the Civic.
Wow Alex! Nice music choice, such classic I think most people watching don’t know! My parents are big fan of the singer and I actually grow up listen to Teresa teng!
finally a hatchback corolla with available manual transmission...
Oh yeah he went there--no corollary in the Corolla!
I’d go for the station wagon/estate - huge improvement in rear legroom and cargo capacity - due to longer wheelbase,
Clive Sinclair this car looks exactly like a station wagon to me. What’s different between this and the wagon you speak of?
@@haroldbeauchamp3770 The wagon has a larger trunk and slightly more rear legroom. I also think it looks better.
@@haroldbeauchamp3770 this is the hatchback, there’s an elongated one that is the hatch.
@@haroldbeauchamp3770 this is the hatchback, there’s an elongated one that is the hatch.
@@Kburd-wr6dq that’s interesting. Station wagons sell very poorly in North America. I’d wager Toyota created this pseudo-wagon to appeal to American buyers who see the description “station wagon” and promptly exit the showroom.
If we're to see toyota's HSD in the corolla hatchback and wagon, it should be a better value than any other car of this segment currently sold in europe. The fuel savings can't be ignored with how high fuel prices are getting, and with Diesel becoming more expensive than gasoline.
Should have invaded iraq back when the gettin' was good. There's still time on this Venezuela thing
Missed opportunity on the left part of the dashboard you mentioned. How about a little storage compartment to put a parking pass?
Really love this car. Huge fan of the size. The Civic is just huge now and I am not a fan. The Corolla has a great NA engine to boot. Really think Toyota nailed this. Just wished it had Android Auto but that's a very small gripe. I'm shocked that this is one of The few entries with IRS in its segment. Really top of class in my opinion given how expensive the Mazda 3 is and how ugly the Civic Is. Definelty would get the manual.
If they put the hybrid system in the hatch, sign me up. I saw an SE version while at the dealer the other day and while it’s shorter than some of the competition, it has quite a presence and a fantastic interior. Best interior since the 03-08 Corolla’s.
Same, I would trade in my Prius in a heartbeat!
Nice design. Wish they offered a more powerful engine.
Overall reliability is much more than the brand
I have this car and love it. But people would really appreciate extending the vehicle a few more inches to make it a better modern family car. Just my take. But this may be done for a reason to not steal sales from the camry.
With all their positive progress, it is a shame all Toyota's new designs suffer from undersized interiors. I hope they fix that with next version.
A Coralla that actually looks cool.
8:42 Alex, you listen to Teresa Teng?! Wow
I think he replied to another comment long time ago that he studied mandarin long time ago so he listens to some Chinese songs. But he also said that he's practically forgot Chinese already, so it's just listening to songs right now.
Haha that's really cool :)
Wei Dai wow I did not know that. I do notice Teresa Tang songs showing up quite a few times in Alex’s videos tho!
She sang some unforgettable songs
@@davidmaxwell4121 yeah but I think it says Japanese on the screen lol
I like corolla hatch but the new AWD Mazda 3 is quite interesting the new WRX is also on my radar. (living in Canada AWD is quite useful)
P.S another pro is Corolla hatch is made in Japan
I’m surprised it got that good of a score on the cabin noise test. All reviews have said its way too loud on the inside.
Higher spec is better insulated and has acoustic glass
Where is the Kia Forte 5?
Elantra GT hatchback?
VW Golf?
He mentioned the GT.
ALex, at what price you can get variable intermittent wipers in Civic? And what? Turbo engine is a Plus? I don't know about that. Yea, and when you get to Type-R this is beyond Civic. What does it have from Civic, even Si? - only body shape. Everything else is different
I had a basic Corolla for a loaner car. It wasn’t really that much fun. I was glad to get my car back from the shop.
Got this exact car. XSE with the CVT. Agree with everything here. I had a civic hatch before. And it definitely had more room. I would say that if your family is bigger then two people. I would be looking at some other hatch that is a bit bigger. About all you can fit in the rear hatch is two carry on bags. And like the reviewer said here. If you turn them sideways. The hatch won’t shut.
I have the Hybrid 2.0 version available in Europe. Superb small car
They are not selling Hybrid hatches over here yet.
I want to see a grMN version of this.
It's a full size spare tire. That's one reason why the cargo deck is so high.
An affordable car for a change. To bad for the small trunk. Love the new 3 Sport from Mazda.
The CHR needs a better engine
10 years ago 22k for a base corolla was something to scoff at. Now it's affordable.
i like the shape of the corolla and elantra hatch.. the civic hatch just looks too disproportionate compared to the sedan version.. a long hood line with a stubby back
8:38 wow, a man of culture!
Alex you have great taste in music.
I've got an 16 Scion IM and think the IM gives just enough room for rear passengers and has a hair over 20 cubic space in hatch. I've had passengers over 6 feet sit in back without an issue. Why Toyota decided to make the next generation of the Corolla hatch smaller is beyond me. How much of an effort would it have been to taken to take the last generation of the IM and upgrade the face and rear with this current body style without losing interior space. Love Toyota through and through and I love hatchbacks but I feel this is a tad bit too small compared to the previous generation of the IM. This probably why they made the CHR the taller version of the IM/Corolla hatch because it actually has the same cargo room as the IM.
Body looks like a facelifted upscaled old Mazda 2( successful , fun small hatch), side and rear look almost the same
Teresa Teng's music! Good taste Alex!
Good point
other youtube did not point this out
Toyota still can fix it
Good job
I'm not a Toyota fan in general and if I were shopping in this segment I'd rank the Civic and the Elantra ahead of the Corolla Hatchback. But I'd put the GTI ahead of all of them. (But the GTI is really a different type of vehicle despite its similar size.) Nevertheless, the new Corolla Hatchback is miles ahead of the outgoing Corolla IM. And for those attracted to Toyota's reputation for reliability as their highest priority, I'm sure it will do well.
Good basic transportation as a daily driver. Reasonable versatility of a hatchback. Not bad looking. Good resale. All the things Toyota is good at.
I just bought the wagon (Hybrid 2.0 Touring Sports), it has a lot more room in the back :)
Your wagon is much more practical, too bad they don't sell the AWD version offered in Japan.
Unless you have people in the back seats often, there is no reason to get the sedan. The hatch is a better value and has more cargo space.
I don't understand why the U.S Market gets the low end versions of the Corolla. I have seen a version called the 2.5 G in India released a few years back which has the look and feel of a small lexus.
Toyota and Mazda are the best
Niro for me, though I'd really prefer a manual transmission hybrid hatch. Any OEM's listening?
I'm waiting for the manual hybrid wagon .
No turbo for me, only naturally aspirated. I don't like CVTs either, but it's hard to find anything without one.
I would wait for the Corolla sedan in the XLE trim. It seems like with Toyota, you have to buy the higher trim levels to get the JBS audio.
bravo! Alex listens to Teresa Teng
You forgot the Golf! Hopefully you’ll test a new one soon because it now gets the same power train as the Jetta! Consumer Reports averaged 34 mpg on the new Jetta with a high of 54 on the highway! That’s also with a totally “natural” conventional 8 spd auto, not an “artificial” feeling CVT.
The thumbnail is a photograph of the SE. But the video review is for the xse.
This is a great car for the price.
Why no electronic sunroof? That killed it for me.
I like the Instagram ad where they make this seem like a fast car, but sounds like a vacuum cleaner with it's 160 hp, I laugh every time.
This corolla will be the most reliable car to purchase . Plus Toyota uses the most reliable cvts. Great car .
Toyota uses Aisin transmissions (they own about 30% of the company). They are much more reliable than the CVTs used by Nissan (JATCO). Many other manufacturers also use the JATCO transmissions, so that is where many of the bad CVTs come from.
@@ronshaw80 . Does Subaru still use JATCO for their transmissions?
I dont know.
I will get the mazda 3
for a Compact sedan, I'd pick the highest trim of the Mazda 3 (great interior that gives the Acura ILX a run for the money). I'd lease a Civic Type R and buy a Corolla XSE-CVT
The 2019 Corolla hatchback works very well with software called open pilot. Open pilot is software that keeps you in your lane better that the lane tracing that comes standard and replaces the radar cruise control system. It allows you to drive hands-free in many cases. You can purchase the hardware at comma.ai in your web browser.
I'm torn. I like hatchbacks and haven't had one in awhile. The Civic looks ridiculous, and I'm over 40 so it just wouldn't look good. My favorite would actually be a Golf, for the visibility and room, and VWs have always scared me with reliability, but newer ones don't seem so bad. However, nobody buys Golfs, only GTI's, most dealers don't even have any, and rumor is it's cancelled in the US for 2020. I've owned 4 Mazdas, but the new Mazda3 I'm not warming to. The Corolla is intriguing. Wish it had more rear room and maybe 4 or 5 inches more wheelbase. The rear wing on the XSE looks ridiculous, and I live in a city with rough streets, so I'd lean towards the SE version with smaller wheels and more sidewall. I like the bling and the foglights on the XSE, which the SE doesn't have. I like a moon roof, but neither trim offers it. So I guess the best version for me would be the SE with all options, or an XSE with a wing delete and a wheel swap. Oh yeah, I love the color "celestite" that the new Corolla sedan is available in, but it isn't an option in the hatch. :-(
I bought the SE with all the options including that ridiculous wing but it was an mfr installed option I couldn't get rid of and I'm over 40 lol... Like the car but I would have opted for the XSE for the additional goodies except I didn't want the larger tires. Car rides great but wish it had a little more oomph on the highway. Road noise is suprisingly high too.
@@guyinnyc1 yeah the road noise is definitely loud at highway speeds. Not too bad at lower speeds, but on the highway can barely hear the music over it
I think there might be an editing issue around 4:24 regarding the first gear CVT.
Is there any hope for a Corolla Hatchback Hybrid in The States?
Is this a new camera setup? I'm noticing some different colors and perhaps a bit of thematic motion blur.
I drove a Corolla for a rental once; liked the safety features. Having said that, the body design of the Mazda is much nicer. It really screamed more Italian than JDM. Toyota is just a mass market that everyone jumps on, for good reason, but I just don't like the looks. I do like the return of the hatchback; but if I were to that, I would go Volkswagen.
Alright Alex, here’s a question boggling my mind; what’s the difference between a liftback, hatchback and a wagon?!
a liftback is what the civic hatchback is, basically just a sedan, a hatchback can range from this to the honda fit, and think kinda like a volkswagon for a wagon.
Why everyone is sloping hatches or SUV? I would not mind 1-2 less MPG for squared more roomy cargo area.
Good question.
Your the best. my go to on automotive education.
Turns out the manual can actually do 7.5 to 60 (Motortrend) and the cvt is rated at near 8.5 by most publications.