Updated 2023 Toyota Corolla is more powerful and efficient

Toyota has updated the Corolla, three years on from its launch, with a raft of specification, design and mechanical improvements - most notably ushering in the latest generation of its petrol-electric hybrid drivetrain.

The Toyota Corolla has sold more than 50 million units worldwide since its 1966 introduction and is currently in its 12th generation. It is available in both hatchback and estate forms in the UK, the saloon having bowed out several months ago. A closely related SUV model, the new Toyota Corolla Cross, will join it in dealerships later this year. 

The Vauxhall Astra rival's design has been left largely untouched – tweaks are limited to a new mesh pattern for the front grille, reshaped foglights and new alloy wheel designs – but Toyota draws attention to the changes underneath the surface, which it says make it "equipped to strengthen its role as a core volume model for Toyota in Europe".

It continues to be available with a choice of 1.8- and 2.0-litre hybrid powertrains, but both are claimed to bring improved power, performance and drivability - alongside reduced emissions. 

The lithium ion EV battery, for example, now weighs 18kg less and is more compact, and recalibrated EV motors give a more 'intuitive', rather than linear, throttle response. 

The 1.8-litre powertrain now produces a combined 138bhp and shaves 1.7sec of the 0-62mph time, at 9.2sec. The 2.0-litre car brings 193bhp and covers the same sprint in 7.5sec. CO2 emissions are pegged at 102g/km and 107g/km, respectively - a slight reduction over the outgoing car's figures.

Inside, the latest Corolla plays host to a new infotainment system running through a larger, 10.5in central touchscreen, and from mid-rung trim upwards, the hatch comes equipped as standard with a 12.3in digital gauge cluster.

Elsewhere, there is a choice of new exterior paint options and interior trim elements, while the performance-inspired Toyota Corolla GR Sport gets a new set of 18in alloys, tweaked bumper designs and GR-embossed seats. 

Toyota will reveal pricing for the new-look line-up ahead of its market launch in the first quarter of 2023.