PLANO, Texas (August 26, 2021) – The Toyota Corolla, a name synonymous with reliability and value, reached an unprecedented milestone this past July, selling its 50-millionth vehicle globally. This achievement marks not just a significant moment for Toyota but also a landmark in automotive history. Spanning twelve generations and over 55 years of production, the Toyota Corolla has consistently remained a top-selling car worldwide, earning the unwavering confidence and trust of customers across the globe, one vehicle at a time.
Introduced by Toyota in 1966, the Corolla first made its way to the United States in the spring of 1968 as a 1969 model, with a starting price of approximately $1,700. To put this in perspective, gasoline was around $0.35 per gallon, and the median household income in the US was $7,700. Popular culture of the time included the TV show “Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In,” and hit songs like Otis Redding’s “(Sittin’ on) The Dock of the Bay,” Simon and Garfunkel’s “Mrs. Robinson,” and The Beatles’ “Hey Jude” would have been heard on the optional AM radio of the early Toyota Corolla.
As the Toyota Corolla evolved, it consistently offered more space, enhanced comfort, and improved performance. This dedication to progress solidified its position as a value benchmark in the automotive market. The Corolla didn’t just become a model; it grew into one of the most significant and expansive branches of the Toyota family tree. However, the Toyota Corolla’s most profound impact lies in the role it has played in the lives of millions of drivers who have chosen this dependable vehicle for over half a century.
For nearly three generations, the Toyota Corolla has been a silent partner in countless memories and life stories. It has been the car for first jobs, first dates, daily commutes, graduations, family vacations, doctor’s appointments, weddings, and children’s sports games – the backdrop for all the meaningful events that compose a life. Even those who have never owned a Toyota Corolla often have a story about a friend, neighbor, relative, or colleague who drove one, highlighting its pervasive presence in daily life.
Fifty million sales later, this cornerstone of the Toyota lineup continues to be recognized for its ability to be well-equipped for any situation. The 2022 Toyota Corolla, maintaining its commitment to affordability, integrates advanced technology, a sporty aesthetic, and premium comfort. It offers impressive fuel efficiency, with the hybrid model achieving up to 53/52/52 EPA-estimated MPG, and comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, featuring automatic emergency braking, ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.
Mirroring its appeal in the late 1960s, the Toyota Corolla today provides buyers with the freedom and independence that comes from accessible pricing, combined with the assurance of long-term reliability and low ownership costs. The 2022 Toyota Corolla range expands on this legacy with a variety of options, including sedans, a sporty hatchback, a fuel-efficient hybrid, and the all-new Corolla Cross compact crossover, catering to diverse needs and preferences.
For the Toyota Corolla, dependability is more than just vehicle performance; it’s about becoming a trusted member of the families it serves. It’s this inherent reliability that often makes a Toyota Corolla the starting point for a “Toyota family,” with many households adding other Toyota models to their driveways and garages over time.
Ready for Anything
Toyota Corolla sales were already experiencing growth when the October 1973 Oil Embargo triggered long queues and rising prices at gas stations, even leading to fuel rationing. During this uncertain period, the increasing number of buyers choosing the Toyota Corolla found reassurance in its fuel efficiency, knowing that even a small amount of fuel would be sufficient for their weekly needs.
The Toyota Corolla emerged from this challenging era with even greater and rapidly expanding popularity. Toyota responded by broadening the model range, introducing sporty fastback coupe and liftback versions. Toyota’s unwavering dedication to continuous improvement ensured that each new generation of the Toyota Corolla offered enhancements beyond its predecessor, reinforcing its commitment to customer satisfaction and automotive excellence.
By the mid-1980s, Toyota began manufacturing Corollas in the U.S., marking a significant step in its localization strategy. Today, Toyota Corollas are proudly built at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Mississippi, Inc. (TMMMS), which commenced operations in 2011. Furthermore, the newly established Mazda Toyota Manufacturing plant in Huntsville, Alabama, is set to begin production of the all-new Toyota Corolla Cross later this summer, further solidifying Toyota’s manufacturing footprint in North America.
While the 2022 Toyota Corolla represents a significant evolution from its late 1960s predecessor, its fundamental values remain consistent with the original model. The Toyota Corolla continues to adapt to the evolving demands of a growing and diverse customer base, always staying true to its core mission: to deliver Toyota’s renowned quality, durability, and reliability, coupled with excellent fuel economy, all at an accessible price point. Over the years, it has become increasingly refined and enjoyable to drive, proving that practicality and driving pleasure can coexist harmoniously.
Here’s a journey through time, showcasing how the Toyota Corolla achieved the milestone of 50 million sales and continues to grow.
First Generation: 1969-1970
The inaugural Toyota Corolla embodied simplicity with its clean, crisp design, offering excellent all-around visibility in coupe, four-door sedan, and two-door wagon configurations. The Corolla Sprinter coupe, featuring a slightly lower semi-fastback roofline, was introduced later, adding a touch of sporty flair to the lineup.
All first-generation Toyota Corollas were powered by a short-stroke 1,077-cc overhead-valve four-cylinder engine. This engine was quite advanced for its time, utilizing aluminum for the cylinder head, intake manifold, valve cover, and clutch housing. It came with 12-inch diameter wheels and a four-speed manual transmission as the only option. Producing 60 horsepower (51 hp SAE net), it achieved a 0-60 mph acceleration time of around 17 seconds and offered a top fuel economy estimate in the high 20s mpg.
The 1969 Toyota Corolla two-door sedan was priced just under $1,700 and included reclining front seats and a locking fuel-filler door as standard features, highlighting Toyota’s focus on customer convenience even in its entry-level model. The attention to detail in the Corolla impressed both automotive media and customers. “Car and Driver” magazine noted in a road test, “Not only is the interior well designed but it’s also well finished, right down to the carpet that’s perfectly molded to the shape of the floor with every edge carefully bound to avoid that low-priced look,” praising the quality and craftsmanship that defied its affordable price tag.
Second Generation: 1971-1974
The second-generation Toyota Corolla marked a growth spurt in size, featuring a slightly extended wheelbase and a more powerful 73-horsepower engine. It also introduced the Toyota Corolla’s first optional automatic transmission, initially a two-speed unit, with a three-speed automatic becoming available later. In 1972, the SR-5 coupe was launched, boasting an 88-hp (SAE net) 1.6-liter engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission. This sporty variant was designed to complement the new Celica sport coupe, appealing to drivers seeking a more engaging driving experience. By this point, the Toyota Corolla had risen to become the second best-selling car globally, demonstrating its rapid ascent in popularity and market acceptance.
Third Generation: 1975-1979
The third generation Toyota Corolla continued the trend of incremental growth in size and expanded engine options to include 1.2, 1.3, and 1.6-liter variants, catering to diverse performance and economy needs. For the 1976 model year, fastback coupe and Liftback models were added to the lineup, featuring refreshed front-end styling that gave them a more contemporary appearance. The Liftback, in particular, was designed to be more like a sport wagon, enhancing rear seat headroom and blending sporty aesthetics with practical functionality, making it a versatile choice for buyers.
Fourth Generation: 1980-1984
A striking, angular design language characterized the fourth-generation Toyota Corolla, which maintained a wide variety of body styles to suit different customer preferences. The new design prioritized increased interior space and noise reduction while incorporating more comfort and convenience features. The U.S. models offered a 75-hp OHV 1.8-liter engine and the more powerful 4A-C 90-hp OHC 1.6-liter engine. The two-door models were particularly praised for their innovative front seats equipped with a “memory” feature. This allowed the seats to slide forward automatically when the seatback was tilted to facilitate rear seat access, and then return to their original position and recline angle, enhancing passenger convenience.
Fifth Generation: 1985-1988
The fifth-generation Toyota Corolla brought about a significant transformation with a switch to front-wheel drive for the main model series. This change enhanced interior space and improved traction in various weather conditions. Toyota also began producing Corollas in California through a joint venture with General Motors called New United Motor Manufacturing, Inc. (NUMMI). All front-wheel-drive engines were now configured with Single Overhead Camshafts (SOHC).
However, a rear-wheel-drive Toyota Corolla model, identified by its VIN prefix “AE86,” was also offered in coupe and hatchback versions. The top-tier GT-S variant was powered by the highly regarded 4A-GE DOHC 1.6-liter engine, delivering a sporty driving experience. In 1987, a new front-wheel-drive FX hatchback was introduced, and the premium FX16 GT-S version inherited the 4A-GE engine, creating a new “hot hatch” model. The rear-wheel-drive GT-S later gained iconic status in drifting culture, both in real-world motorsports and in popular video games, cementing its legacy. The spirit of both these sporty Corollas lives on in the modern 2022 Toyota Corolla Hatchback.
Sixth Generation: 1989-1992
By the sixth generation, the Toyota Corolla lineup had fully transitioned to front-wheel drive. All models were equipped with 16-valve Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) engines and featured four-wheel independent suspension, significantly improving handling and ride comfort. The Toyota Corolla All-Trac wagon and sedan models incorporated an effective all-wheel-drive system, providing enhanced stability and traction. The redesigned coupe featured pop-up headlights, reminiscent of the AE86, and was available in SR-5 and GT-S trims. The GT-S model was particularly sporty, powered by the 4A-GE engine, and distinguished by special wheels and a distinctive body kit. The 1990-1991 GT-S version boasted 135 horsepower, offering spirited performance for its class.
Seventh Generation: 1993-1997
The seventh-generation Toyota Corolla, offered exclusively in sedan and wagon styles in the U.S. market, adopted a design language that was more akin to the Toyota Camry. In fact, it grew in cabin size to be classified as a compact car, while the Camry itself shifted into the midsize segment, reflecting changing market demands and vehicle dimensions. Both 1.6-liter and 1.8-liter DOHC engines were available, providing a range of performance options. In 1997, the CE sedan trim was introduced, packaging numerous popular features into a special value-priced model. This timing was especially significant as it coincided with the Toyota Corolla achieving the title of the best-selling car model in history that year, a testament to its enduring popularity and global appeal.
Eighth Generation: 1998-2002
The eighth-generation Toyota Corolla refined the established formula, offering even more interior space within the same wheelbase as its predecessor. The redesigned unibody structure enhanced passenger crash protection, and notably, side airbags became an available safety feature, reflecting growing safety standards and consumer demand. A new all-aluminum 1ZZ-FE 1.8-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine was introduced, featuring Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) system. This engine delivered 120 horsepower while also improving fuel economy, showcasing Toyota’s commitment to both performance and efficiency.
Ninth Generation: 2003-2008
In its ninth iteration, the Toyota Corolla became slightly longer and taller, resulting in its most spacious cabin to date. A new Corolla S model was introduced, featuring sport-tuned suspension and unique body styling, appealing to buyers seeking a more dynamic look and driving feel. With its 130-horsepower engine, the Toyota Corolla achieved an EPA-estimated 31 combined MPG with the five-speed manual transmission and 28 combined MPG with the four-speed automatic, maintaining its reputation for fuel efficiency. Reflecting the era’s technological advancements, the center console box was designed to accommodate up to 14 compact discs, highlighting the evolving in-car entertainment preferences.
For 2005, the performance-oriented Toyota Corolla XRS model debuted, combining the high-revving 164-horsepower 2ZZ 1.8-liter engine from the Celica GT-S with a six-speed manual transmission and sport-tuned suspension. This model catered to driving enthusiasts looking for enhanced performance capabilities in a compact sedan.
“The levels of fit and finish are nothing short of remarkable,” commented “Car and Driver” magazine about the ninth-generation Toyota Corolla, praising the build quality and refinement that exceeded expectations for its segment. By 2002, the Toyota Corolla had reached 25 million units sold worldwide, further cementing its position as a global automotive leader.
10th Generation: 2009-2013
The 10th-generation Toyota Corolla focused on enhanced refinement, resulting in what “Motor Trend” magazine described as “must be the quietest car in its class, with less wind noise than many luxury cars.” The exterior design was sleeker, while interior space remained generous. The XRS model returned, now equipped with the 2.4-liter engine from the Toyota Camry, providing increased torque and improved responsiveness for everyday driving situations. As CDs began to decline in popularity, higher-grade Toyota Corolla models offered JBL Premium Audio systems with iPod connectivity, Bluetooth, and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, reflecting the shift towards digital music and in-car technology integration.
Comfort and technology features became increasingly important to compact car buyers, and the Toyota Corolla responded with the XLE trim level. This trim offered an available power moonroof and a JBL audio system with an AM/FM/six-disc CD changer, satellite radio, and eight speakers, catering to those seeking premium amenities in a compact car.
11th Generation: 2014-2018
The 11th-generation Toyota Corolla debuted with a sculpted, more contemporary body design. Rear seat legroom was significantly increased to 41.4 inches, surpassing that of many midsize and even full-size sedans, emphasizing passenger comfort and space. All Toyota Corolla models now came standard with eight airbags, including a new driver’s knee airbag and front passenger seat cushion airbag, underscoring Toyota’s commitment to safety. Crucially, the 2017 Toyota Corolla made Toyota Safety Sense-P standard across all trims. This comprehensive safety suite included Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, and Automatic High Beams, setting a new benchmark for standard safety features in the compact car segment.
Upgraded interior materials enhanced the premium feel of the cabin, and a touchscreen audio system with Bluetooth, USB, and iPod connectivity became standard. Automatic climate control was included as standard on the LE grade and above, further enhancing comfort and convenience. The base L and sporty S grades came standard with a six-speed manual transmission, while the automatic transmission was now a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) to maximize fuel efficiency. The Toyota Corolla Eco model, featuring Valvematic engine technology, achieved an EPA-estimated 42 MPG highway / 34 MPG combined, highlighting Toyota’s ongoing efforts to improve fuel economy.
12th Generation: 2019-Present
For 2019, the Toyota Corolla lineup introduced a new sedan with a lower, sleeker, and more athletic stance. A significant addition was the return of the hatchback body style after a long hiatus, bringing sporty versatility back to the Corolla range. Even more notably, the first-ever Toyota Corolla Hybrid Sedan was launched, becoming the fuel efficiency leader of the lineup with an exceptional EPA-estimated 52 combined MPG.
The Toyota Corolla Hatchback features a unique body design and channels the spirit of past sporty Toyota Corolla models like the GT-S and XRS, thanks to its 169-horsepower 2.0-liter Dynamic Force engine and available rev-matching intelligent six-speed manual transmission. This powerful yet efficient engine is also available in the Toyota Corolla sedan. While the Toyota Corolla Hybrid leads in fuel economy, other models in the lineup are also highly efficient, with the 2.0-liter models achieving an estimated 35 combined MPG.
The Toyota Corolla Sedan and Hatchback offer a Nightshade Special Edition for a distinctive appearance, the sporty XSE model for enhanced driving dynamics, and the luxury-oriented XLE grade for premium features. The Dynamic Shift CVT, available for all models except the Hybrid, utilizes a physical first gear for improved launch feel and efficiency. The limited-production Toyota Corolla Apex took performance to an even higher level with a bold body kit, track-tuned suspension with lowering springs, lightweight 18-inch alloy wheels, and a sport-tuned exhaust, catering to enthusiasts seeking maximum performance.
For 2022, the first-ever Toyota Corolla Cross joined the lineup, a new compact crossover offering ample space and equipped with Toyota’s renowned comfort and technology features. All Toyota Corolla models are built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, providing enhanced agility and safety. Furthermore, all Toyota Corolla models come standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 across all trim levels, reinforcing Toyota’s commitment to safety and innovation.
The Beat Goes On
After achieving 50 million sales, the Toyota Corolla continues its journey into the future, offering stylish, agile, quiet, spacious, and highly efficient models. Brimming with the latest technology and safety features, the Toyota Corolla is ready to be a part of millions more personal stories around the world, maintaining its legacy as a reliable and beloved automotive icon. Toyota encourages everyone to share their Toyota Corolla stories using #MyCorollaStory, celebrating the enduring bond between drivers and their Toyota Corollas.
