2021 Toyota Corolla

J.D. Power (opens in a new tab) says the 2021 changes are headlined by the new Apex Edition, with Android Auto joining Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa on the standard equipment list. Carvana (opens in a new tab) calls it an update year rather than a redesign, with added airbags, broader phone connectivity and a hatchback Special Edition, and Driving (opens in a new tab) notes new 17-inch wheels as standard, a stiffer suspension to reduce roll and new 18-inch wheels on the XLE.

MotorTrend (opens in a new tab) lists the base engine at 139 hp, front-wheel drive only, at 29 to 30 mpg city and 37 to 39 highway, and points to the 53/52 mpg Corolla Hybrid for Prius-like efficiency. Kelley Blue Book (opens in a new tab) puts the cheapest used 2021 Corolla, the L Sedan, at a Fair Purchase Price of $15,300.

NHTSA lists one recall campaign for the 2021 Corolla. 23V865000, from December 2023, covers a short circuit that may develop in the Occupant Classification System sensor and keep the front passenger air bag from deploying, and dealers inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge.

Owners have filed 185 complaints, led by air bags with 52, engine with 40, unknown or other with 32, electrical system with 22, power train with 19 and visibility and wipers with 15. ProblemsByVin (opens in a new tab) and CarComplaints (opens in a new tab) break these down, and Consumer Reports (opens in a new tab) rates the year much more reliable than the average car.

EPA rates the 2021 Corolla family at 31 to 52 mpg combined and $1,200 to $2,000 a year in fuel. The Honda Civic lists 25 to 36 at $1,750 to $3,100, the Hyundai Elantra 28 to 54 at $1,150 to $2,250, and the Nissan Sentra 32 to 33 at $1,900 to $1,950. Only the Elantra hybrid tops the Corolla Hybrid's best rating, and the Civic trails at both ends.