2023 Toyota Corolla Launched In Japan With Bigger Screen, Upgraded Hybrid

Notice anything different about these Corollas? No, we’re not talking about the discreetly modified headlights and grille introduced today in Japan. The compact car eschews Toyota’s front badge to make room for a big “C.” The JDM model has had it for quite a while and the 2023MY sticks to the model-reserved badge. The tailgate retains the corporate logo, with both front and rear ones featuring blue accents denoting the electrified powertrain.

The twelfth generation has been around since 2018 and Toyota is giving it a nip and tuck in its domestic market. Without going into specifics, we’re being told the 1.8-liter hybrid powertrain has an improved electric motor while the 1.5- and 2.0-liter gasoline models have revised engines delivering improved fuel economy. In addition, there are new body colors to choose from while some of the exterior details have been updated.

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Customers in Japan can upgrade from the eight-inch touchscreen to the new 10.5-inch infotainment featuring wireless Apple CarPlay. At an additional cost, Wi-Fi connectivity is available while some of the trim levels get standard front and rear parking sensors. An extended array of safety kit is offered with the model year change, adding Proactive Driving Assist that helps the driver avoid getting too close to pedestrians, bicycles, and parked vehicles by automatically steering and applying the brakes.

The 2023 Corolla in the Land of the Rising Sun features support for over-the-air updates meant to improve safety features even after purchasing the vehicle. Speaking of which, the pre-crash safety system can now detect oncoming vehicles when turning right at an intersection and pedestrians crossing the road when turning right or left.

Pricing for the Corolla sedan kicks off at 1,990,000 yen and rises to 2,998,000 yen ($13,700 to $20,700). The wagon known as the Touring retails from 2,070,000 yen to 3,048,000 yen ($14,200 to $21,000) while the hatchback sold as the Sport can be had from 2,200,000 yen to 2,890,000 yen ($15,100 to $20,000) depending on specification.