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Market-leading fuel efficiency, good curb appeal, a plethora of cabin technology and Toyota’s Safety Sense suite–the 2022 Corolla Hybrid combines an impressive list of features in an economical package.
The 2022 Corolla Hybrid has become the most fuel-efficient model in the Corolla line-up. With a remarkable fuel economy of more than 50 MPG, the 2022 Corolla Hybrid offers an affordable choice for commuters and busy families on the go.
Under the Hood
Toyota engineers started with the Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive to deliver a responsive driving experience. The hybrid system melds a 1.8-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and two motor/generators, delivering 121 horsepower of responsive performance.
Corolla Hybrid delivers an EPA-estimated mileage of 53 (City)/52 (Highway).
The 2022 Corolla Hybrid stores its Lithium-Ion battery pack under the rear seat rather than taking up trunk are to increase cargo space. The battery location also contributes to the vehicle’s lower center of gravity and improves Corolla’s agility.
The Corolla Hybrid’s linear acceleration response may take some by surprise. When pulling away, the battery provides a subtle power boost in order to put less strain on the engine and eliminate the “rubber band” effect experienced with some hybrids.
A preload differential adds to the confident acceleration feel. During low loads and low differential rotation, differential-limited torque is distributed to the left and right wheels, yielding excellent handling stability. At mid-range and high engine loads, the preload differential functions as an open differential.
Corolla Hybrid employs an EV mode so it may be operated as a pure electric vehicle (distance depends on battery level). Toyota recommends EV mode for operating the vehicle in parking lots or indoor parking garage. A “Vehicle Proximity Notification” feature signals pedestrians of the oncoming vehicle when running in straight battery mode.
A “Power” driving mode delivers more power for stronger acceleration response. Other modes include “Normal” mode (utilizing the hybrid system) and “Eco” mode (limiting power during light to moderate accelerator pedal input).
The 2ZR-FXE 1.8-liter inline four-cylinder engine was designed specifically by Toyota engineers for use in hybrid applications. It has a long-stroke configuration which employs the Atkinson cycle. It uses a high compression ratio (13.0:1) along with a shorter intake stroke and longer expansion stroke.
The Atkinson cycle extracts more energy from the fuel, and the electric motors compensate for reduced low-end power.
Comfort & Convenience
The 2022 Corolla Hybrid comes with a tech-savvy cabin combined with a long list of standard amenities.
Toyota includes a 6-way adjustable, premium fabric-trimmed seat and a 4-way adjustable front passenger. The tilt/telescopic 3-spoke steering wheel provides controls for audio, Multi-Information Display, Bluetooth hands-free phone, voice-command, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist.
Other standard cabin features include an 8-in. touchscreen with six-speaker sound system. Passengers can fire up their own playlists quickly with Toyota’s easy integration to Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa. Corolla Hybrid supports USB and Bluetooth connections.
An optional premium instrumentation panel includes a 7-in. color Multi-Information Display with customizable settings. The panel gives drivers a hybrid system power meter, eco-mode indicator, speedometer and tachometer, coolant temperature, one-touch 3-blink lane change turn signal indicator and additional warning messages.
The Smart Key System with Push Button Start works for remote keyless entry with lock, two-stage unlock, panic and trunk-release functions. Other standard technology includes high-grade LED headlights, LED Daytime Running Lights, LED taillights and stop lights and one 12V auxiliary power outlet.
Drivers can make their Corolla a rolling hot-spot via a 3-month trial of Toyota’s Wi-Fi Connect service.
Safety
The 2022 Corolla Hybrid packs a long list of safety features. The high-tensile strength steel body panels create a strong shell for the unitized body construction.
Front and rear energy-absorbing crumple zones with side-impact door beams are included on every Corolla model. The Advanced Airbag System provides driver and front passenger seat-mounted side airbags, driver knee airbag, front passenger seat cushion airbag, rear seat-mounted side airbags and front and rear side curtain airbags.
There are eight standard airbags along with Toyota’s Star Safety System (Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist, Anti-lock Braking System and Smart Stop Technology). Every Corolla model includes a backup camera.
Among the integrated active safety features found in the Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.0 are:
- Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. For highway use, FSDRCC maintains vehicle-to-vehicle distance and can enable low-speed following up to speeds of about 24 mph. The Corolla can stop when the vehicle in front of it decelerates and comes to a stop.
- Lane Departure Alert with Steer Assist. The system delivers audible and visual warnings and can provide steering assistance if it detects the possibility of leaving the driving lane. It also detects excess weaving within the driving lane.
- Pre-Collision System. It automatically activates brakes to help avoid a collision or mitigate the impact force. The system also can detect a vehicle or pedestrian in day and low-light conditions, including bicycles during daylight.
- Lane Tracing Assist. This system employs a lane centering function to help drivers keep their vehicles in their lanes.
- Automatic High Beam. This feature detects headlights of oncoming vehicles and taillights of preceding vehicles. It automatically switches between high and low beams as needed.
- Road Sign Assist. Toyota engineers created RSA to help recognize speed limit, Stop, Yield and Do Not Enter signs. It displays signals on the control console to help assist.
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