Hot off of its all-new dynamic redesign, the 2022 Toyota Corolla is continuing to deliver upgraded handling and comfort thanks to the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform.
Going beyond just a re-imagined physical appearance, Corolla is backed by smarter engineering, thoughtful design, and better materials. Plus, two special edition models add to the eye-catching styling and driving fun of the 2022 Corolla.
Let's see what's new for the latest model year of the popular and affordable Toyota Corolla.
2022 Toyota Corolla Models and Trims
The 2022 Toyota Corolla is offered in three distinct four-door configurations: gasoline-powered, hybrid and hatchback. With the core essence of Corolla present no matter which model you choose, there are still notable benefits that are exclusive to the hybrid and hatchback versions.
Available trims for each Corolla configuration is as follows:
2022 Corolla (gasoline):
- L
- LE
- SE
- SE Nightshade Edition
- SE Apex Edition
- XLE
- XSE
- XSE Apex Edition
2022 Corolla Hybrid
- LE
2022 Corolla Hatchback
- SE
- SE Nightshade Edition
- XSE
There are two special trims worth highlighting for this model year: Apex Edition and Nightshade Edition.
Like its name says, the limited-run Corolla Apex Edition offers peak design and performance with the help of a sporty black and bronze body kit as well as track-tuned chassis upgrades. The exclusive body components not only look cool, but also add enhanced aerodynamic functionality and high-speed stability. In areas less apparent, the ride height has been lowered by 0.6 inches while stiffer springs and tuned shocks aid in reducing unwanted body roll. If you like the track-day feel, the Corolla Apex Edition not only looks the part, but also backs it up with proven performance.
For those wanting to slide by a bit more stealthily, the Nightshade Edition makes its return for the 2022 model year, offering bold black accents alongside blacked-out styling elements. The 18-inch wheels, bumpers, front grille surround, mirror caps, door handles, rear spoiler and more receive a dark-as-night treatment to give off a custom look with factory-quality finishes.
2022 Toyota Corolla Exterior
The latest generation of Corolla has been turning a lot of heads with its expressiveness, sleek lines, and personalization options.
One of the best features of the Corolla's exterior, in my opinion, is the modern and athletic front fascia which features an available honeycomb mesh grille, dramatic character lines, and some mean-looking LED headlights.
And if you wanted to make an even stronger statement, available 18-inch machined alloy wheels and dark gray metallic sport accents on the rear spoiler, diffuser and side rocker panels will help Corolla really stand out from the crowd.
For exterior paint colors, there are up to 26 available choices in both single and two-tone colorways, depending on which Corolla model and trim you start with. Of course, your color options are also as bold as the vehicle itself, with unique palettes like Blue Flame, Ruby Flare Pearl, and Celestite, to name a few.
2022 Toyota Corolla Interior
Corolla's interior has received numerous enhancements, and it's a sophisticated balance of luxury, comfort, sportiness, and minimalism.
The cabin configuration feels spacious and welcoming, with uncluttered access to all of the technology and passenger features offered by Corolla. Changes to the dashboard design and the front seats have produced better outward visibility for the driver, as well as a more optimum driving position.
For your digital lifestyle needs, an available 8-inch touchscreen display provides a portal to your favorite apps, and features compatibility with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Amazon Alexa. Take control of music, navigation, smart home devices, and more all with natural voice commands. Really love music? Upgrade the system to include nine JBL speakers, a subwoofer, and amplifier for the ultimate road-party experience.
2022 Toyota Corolla Performance
The 2022 Corolla gets its fun from a lively 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 139 horsepower, but things really start to get interesting when you select a model that has the 169-horsepower, 2.0-liter Dynamic Force Engine.
This new engine uses Toyota's signature technologies and direct-injection to deliver more overall performance while requiring less fuel. It's also dimensionally smaller and lighter, further improving the Corolla's weight distribution and center of gravity.
Corolla and Corolla Hatchback are also part of a shrinking list of vehicles that still offer a 6-speed manual transmission for the driving purists who like to "row their own."
For the Corolla Hybrid, two electric motor/generators accompany the 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine to deliver responsive acceleration and also impressive fuel economy. The 2022 Corolla Hybrid boasts an EPA-estimated 52 combined mpg thanks to its efficient power cycle and power recovery.
No matter which Corolla model you choose, you can drive confidently knowing that its chassis has been significantly strengthened (it has 60 percent more torsional rigidity compared to the previous generation) and the suspension architecture has been completely updated to deliver sporty handling while maintaining the sedan comfort you desire.
2022 Toyota Corolla Safety
While some other manufacturers reserve their best safety technologies for add-on packages, Toyota offers maximum value by making its Safety Sense 2.0 suite standard on every single model of the 2022 Corolla.
The driver-assist technologies featured in Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 include:
- Pre-Collision System with Daytime/Low-Light Vehicle and Pedestrian Detection, plus Daytime Bicycle Detection
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (CVT only)
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist and Road Edge Detection
- Automatic High Beams
- Lane Tracing Assist
- Road Sign Assist
Blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert comes standard on Corolla XSE, XSE Apex Edition and XLE, and is available as optional equipment on SE, LE, and Hybrid LE.
Also standard on all models of Corolla is the Star Safety System, which features:
- Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management
- Vehicle Stability Control
- Traction Control
- Anti-Lock Brake System
- Electronic Brake-Force Distribution
- Brake Assist
- Smart Stop Technology
2022 Toyota Corolla Overall
The 12th-generation Toyota Corolla is making a big splash in the market with its elegantly athletic styling plus handling-focused improvements. With more than 46 million Corollas sold around the world since its debut in 1966, the 2022 Corolla is setting things up to keep this trend going strong.
And Corolla's value is tough to beat, considering the standard inclusion of Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 and a starting MSRP of $20,075.
Get reacquainted with the storied Corolla by visiting your local AutoNation Toyota dealership.
Andrew Chen | Nov 10, 2021
