The Toyota Corolla is well-known for being reliable and practical in the car world. Some years were great for the model, others were not as impressive. This article looks at the best and worst Toyota Corolla years, exploring why some models did well and others did not.
Some years had high sales and cool features that made the Corolla very popular, but there were also times when mistakes or boring changes made people disappointed. Let’s look back at the years that were either really good or not so great for this famous car.
Toyota Corolla Generations
The Toyota Corolla is a well-known and reliable car in the auto industry. Throughout its long history, there have been some great years that made the model successful, as well as some confusing ones.
| Generations | Years |
|---|---|
| 8th generation (E110) | 1998-2002 |
| 9th generation (E120/E130) | 2003-2008 |
| 10th generation (E140/E150) | 2009-2013 |
| 11th generation (E170) | 2014-2019 |
| 12th generation (E210) | 2020-Present |
Some years saw high sales and new design features that made the Corolla very popular. There were times when mistakes or boring updates disappointed customers.
Toyota Corolla: Best, Neutral, And Worst Years
We look at many things to compare Toyota Corolla models, like how reliable owners say they are, how much maintenance costs each year, safety ratings and scores from Consumer Reports, NHTSA recalls, and complaints.
| Generation’s | Best | Neutral | Worst |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8th generation (E110) | 2000 2001 2002 | N/A | 1998 1999 |
| 9th generation (E120/E130) | 2007 2008 | 2005 | 2003 2004 2006 |
| 10th generation (E140/E150) | 2012 2013 | 2011 | 2009 2010 |
| 11th generation (E170) | 2016 2017 2018 2019 | 2015 | 2014 |
| 12th generation (E210) | 2021 2022 2023 2024 | N/A | 2020 |
We also check ratings from Edmunds, JD Power, Kelley Blue Book, VehicleHistory, and Cars.com. We use all this information to rank each Toyota Corolla model year as the best, neutral, or worst in a table.
Worst And Best Toyota Corolla Years For The 8th Generation (1998–2002)
The Toyota Corolla’s eighth generation, launched in 1998, was designed to uphold Toyota’s image of creating dependable, economical, and budget-friendly cars.
The peak years for this generation are from 2000 to 2002, while it is advisable to steer clear of the 1998 and 1999 models of the Toyota Corolla.
The Best Years: 2000, 2001, 2002
The Toyota Corolla models made from 2000 to 2002 are known as the best of the first generation. They have upgraded engineering and features. These cars mostly had a 1.8L 1ZZ-FE VVT-i engine, which balanced performance and fuel efficiency well.
They got around 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. Drivers could pick between a 4-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual transmission. The CE, LE, and S trims offered different levels of comfort and style, with the S trim having a sporty design.
Safety features were also better, with improved airbags and brakes. These models had some issues, like using too much oil, although this was less common than in earlier versions.
The Worst Years: 1998, 1999
Feedback from car owners on NHTSA showed that the Toyota Corolla models from 1998 and 1999 had many engine and powertrain issues.
These years were not good for the Corolla, with common complaints about engine problems like oil leaks. This made people worry about long-term damage and hurt the car’s reputation for being reliable.
Users also heard a grinding noise when they used the brakes, which might mean there were problems with the braking system. There were issues with the power steering unit.
Despite still being affordable and efficient, these years were tough for owners and made the cars less recommended in hindsight.
Worst And Best Corolla Years For 9th Generation (2003–2008)
In 2003, Toyota introduced the ninth iteration of the Corolla, highlighting the brand’s commitment to leading the compact car market.
It is advised to steer clear of the 2003, 2004, and 2006 models, while the 2007 and 2008 Corollas are considered standout performers within this generation.
The Best Years: 2007, 2008
Toyota made significant improvements to the Corolla in the 2007 and 2008 models. These cars had fewer complaints and recalls.
They had a 1.8L 1ZZ-FE engine with a 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission.
The cars were fuel-efficient, getting around 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. Different trims, like CE, LE, and S, offered various options for customers.
The models also had new safety features like side-curtain airbags.There were still issues with the AC in these cars, even after Toyota tried to fix ECM problems through recalls.
The Neutral Years: 2005
The 2005 Toyota Corolla had some reliability issues due to frequent Engine Control Module malfunctions. This caused the Check Engine light to come on and sometimes led to the engine stalling.
The 2005 Corolla had fewer problems and was seen as average. Toyota addressed these concerns by issuing recalls, especially for ECM problems in 1ZZ-FE engines.
The Worst Years: 2003, 2004, 2006
The NHTSA found that Toyota Corolla models from 2003, 2004, and 2006 had many problems. These included oil leaks, transmission issues, and strange noises inside the car.
Even though the 2006 model was somewhat better than the earlier ones, it still had engine problems. Some owners had problems with the ECM, which caused the Check Engine light to turn on and sometimes led to engine failures and accidents.
It’s best to avoid buying a Toyota Corolla in these years because of these ongoing problems.
Best And Worst Toyota Corolla Years For 10th Generation (2009–2013)
The latest Toyota Corolla model, with its updated design and enhanced technology features, has solidified its status as a dependable and cost-effective car.
The years 2012 and 2013 stand out as the peak of the tenth generation for the Toyota Corolla, while it is strongly advised to steer clear of the models from 2009 and 2010.
The Best Years: 2012, 2013
The 2012 and 2013 Toyota Corolla models from the tenth generation are highly praised for their advancements across various aspects.
These vehicles were equipped with a 1.8L 2ZR-FE engine, paired with either a 4-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual transmission, striking a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency, achieving an average of 27 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
Safety features were also upgraded, including an improved braking system and stability control. Despite some reports of sporadic excessive oil consumption, these models were well-received by J.D. Power and Consumer Reports during those years.
The Neutral Years: 2011
The 2011 Toyota Corolla represents a blend of tradition and innovation. It maintained the reliable 1.8L 2ZR-FE engine and transmission choices from previous models, delivering consistent performance and fuel efficiency.
Toyota also made advancements in technology by incorporating an updated audio system and navigation features.
There were some issues reported by owners regarding the Electronic Control Module (ECM), leading to occasional unexpected stalling.
Toyota promptly addressed these concerns through service bulletins and recalls, ultimately positioning the 2011 model in a balanced light.
The Worst Years: 2009, 2010
Avoid the 2009 and 2010 Toyota Corolla models, as they have a history of significant issues.
These years saw over 1000 complaints to the NHTSA, with problems including excessive oil consumption, unintended acceleration,ECM malfunctions, gear slipping, brake vacuum intake port blockages reducing braking efficiency, and sticky accelerator pedals.
These issues have led to recalls and low reliability and satisfaction ratings from consumer reports.
Worst And Best Year For Toyota Corolla 11th Generation (2014–2019)
The Toyota Corolla’s 11th generation introduced a significant shift in style, featuring a more modern and assertive design.
The years 2016–2019 are considered the peak of this generation, while it is advised to steer clear of the 2014 model year.
The Best Years: 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019
Our analysis of Consumer Reports data shows that the Toyota Corolla models from 2016 to 2019 in the eleventh generation are very reliable.
These years had a strong 1.8-liter 2ZR-FAE four-cylinder engine with an advanced valve system.
You could choose between a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or a six-speed manual transmission, which gave good fuel efficiency at around 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.
The Toyota Safety Sense-P suite made these models safer. The Corollas also had better interior features, like an improved infotainment system and high-quality cabin materials.
The Neutral Years: 2015
The 2015 Toyota Corolla had a good reputation but was not as popular as newer models. It had a reliable 1.8-liter 2ZR-FAE engine similar to older versions.
It didn’t have many safety features but did have a standard backup camera and a better dashboard design.
It had occasional transmission problems and issues with the infotainment system that affected its performance compared to newer models.
The Worst Years: 2014
In 2014, the Toyota Corolla had a lot of problems that made it a bad choice for drivers.
Many owners complained about issues with the transmission, like hesitation and jerking, as well as occasional unintended acceleration.
The infotainment system also had problems, with the touchscreen not working properly. Even though Toyota tried to make the 2014 model better with a new design and technology, it still had these problems.
Toyota did a good job of quickly fixing some of the issues, showing that they care about making sure their customers are happy.
Worst And Best Toyota Corolla Year For The 12th Generation (2020–Present)
Utilizing the innovative TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) platform, the 12th iteration of the Toyota Corolla guarantees enhanced stability, handling, and comfort on the road.
In terms of reliability, 2020 stood out as the least dependable year within this generation, with ratings notably lower. The Toyota Corolla has established itself as a model of excellence and reliability from 2021 to 2024.
The Best Years: 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024
Toyota upgraded the Toyota Corolla in 2021. They focused on improving the engine options, like the 2.0L Dynamic-Force 4-cylinder engine with a Direct Shift-CVT.
This engine balances power and fuel efficiency, getting around 31 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. Some models also had a 6-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT) that made driving more fun.
Safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, and pre-collision systems were standard.
Inside, the car got more tech-friendly with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and other connectivity options. Updates in 2023 and 2024 made these features even better, making the Corolla a top choice for compact sedans.
The Worst Years: 2020
In 2020, the Toyota Corolla faced criticism for its new features. It had advanced driver-assist technology and a new interior, but some drivers were not happy.
They said the CVT performance was not great and there were small problems with the infotainment system.
Groups like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports gave it low ratings because of these issues. This year was important for future improvements, but it had common problems that come with launching a new generation.
Toyota Corolla Average Resale Values
Examine the graph below to investigate the average resale prices of Toyota Corollas throughout the years.
By analyzing this data, prospective buyers can gain insight into the vehicle’s depreciation rate and make informed decisions when purchasing a pre-owned model.
Conclusion
The Toyota Corolla has had good and bad years in its long history. It has been reliable and popular in the best years but has faced challenges in the worst years. The car has been a staple in the automotive industry. Here, we discuss the best and worst Toyota Corolla years .
Toyota keeps improving the Corolla with each new generation. There is something for everyone in the lineup of Toyota Corolla models, whether you like the classic models or the modern features of newer versions. The legacy of the Toyota Corolla will continue to thrive in the future.
FAQs
Which Year Of The Toyota Corolla Is The Best?
The 2017 Toyota Corolla is often praised for its combination of affordability, reliability, and fuel efficiency. This model year also introduced several new safety features and technology upgrades that make it a standout option.
What Is The Most Reliable Toyota?
Toyota has a strong reputation for producing durable and long-lasting vehicles. Among the most reliable Toyota models are the Toyota Corolla and the Toyota Camry. These cars consistently receive high marks for their dependability, low maintenance costs, and overall longevity.
Is Camry Better Than Corolla?
The comparison between the Toyota Camry and Corolla ultimately depends on individual preferences and needs. The Camry is a midsize sedan known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and powerful engine options. The Corolla is a compact sedan that excels in fuel efficiency, affordability, and ease of maneuverability. It is a popular choice for daily commuters and those looking for a reliable and economical vehicle.