The updated Toyota Corolla has launched in the UK, featuring latest-gen hybrid technology, revamped design and a new grade line-up.

The 2023 Corolla Hatchback and Touring Sports debut Toyota’s fifth-generation hybrid electric technology

The revised 12^th-generation range includes Corolla Hatchback and Touring Sports models again, both built at the carmaker’s Burnaston plant in the UK and priced from £30,210.

The biggest change is the use of Toyota’s fifth-generation hybrid electric technology for the 1.8- and 2.0-litre powertrains, introducing detailed engineering and design changes for a better driving experience, higher performance and improved efficiency.

Updates include a smaller and lighter lithium-ion battery that cuts weight while upping power – by 14% in both cases. The motor is also smaller and lighter while a new power control unit offers more efficiency.

Total power from the 1.8-litre system stands at 140hp, bringing a 1.8-second reduction in the 0-62mph time to 9.1 seconds. For the 2.0-litre system, power rises to 196hp and half a second has been shaved from the 0-62mph time, taking it down to 7.4 seconds.

CO2 emissions start from 100g/km for the 1.8-litre powertrain and 98g/km for the 2.0-litre, with fuel economy from 64.2mpg.

The Corolla also gets a new grade line-up for the UK, spanning Icon, Design, GR Sport and Excel trims. Both body styles and powertrains are available across all four grades.

Standard equipment includes the latest Toyota Smart Connect+ multimedia system, which provides faster response and greater functionality, plus a fully digital, customisable 12.3-inch driver display.

There are also major advances in the Toyota Safety Sense active safety and driver assistance systems, with new and enhanced features that recognise and help the driver avoid a wider range of everyday driving hazards. Safety and multimedia functions are future-proofed, with software updates deliverable over-the-air via the car’s data communications module.

Design changes include refreshed exterior and interior styling details, such as new wheel designs, headlights, colour options and upholsteries.