The 2022 Toyota Corolla sedan has consistently impressed with its blend of style and affordability. From every angle, the design exudes a low, lean, and athletic stance, a concept the Toyota design team aptly terms “shooting robust.” This design philosophy aims for a robust, confidence-inspiring presence while maintaining the practical space that sedan buyers expect. The Corolla successfully marries these aspects, offering both aesthetic appeal and everyday usability.
Striking Exterior Design and Color Options
The 2022 Corolla sedan’s dynamic performance is visually underscored by its wide front (+0.47 in.) and rear (+0.87 in.) track dimensions, all riding on a 106.3-inch wheelbase. The front fascia is particularly striking, varying across models, with the SE and XSE grades showcasing the sportiest aesthetics. These trims feature a body-color chin spoiler and aero-stabilizing fins that enhance the car’s wide stance and aerodynamic profile. The slim, J-shaped Bi-Beam LED headlamps not only wrap deeply into the front fenders but also give the Corolla a distinctive and modern “steely stare,” especially noticeable as a unique nighttime signature. The SE and XSE grades further distinguish themselves with triple J-shaped clearance lamps using LED lights and integrated LED turn signals, crafting a unique lighting design.
For enhanced visibility, the available Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) adjusts the beam based on steering input and vehicle speed, widening the field of light in turns. The rear of the Corolla also makes a strong visual statement with narrow combination lamps that extend deeply into the fenders. All 2022 Corolla sedan models utilize LEDs for their rear lighting, with the style and type varying by grade. Sporty grades are further differentiated by smoked outer light lenses.
Toyota offers a vibrant palette of colors to complement the Corolla sedan’s striking sheet metal. Dramatic hues such as the iridescent Celestite and Blueprint stand out, alongside Windchill Pearl, White, Ruby Flare Pearl, Blue Crush Metallic, Classic Silver Metallic, and Black Sand Pearl. For a more personalized touch, duo-color options pair Blue Crush Metallic, White, Ruby Flare Pearl, Cement, Blueprint, Wind Chill Pearl, Classic Silver Metallic, and Celestite with a Black Sand Pearl roof, albeit at an extra cost.
Wheel Choices and the Apex Edition Influence
Wheel options for the 2022 Corolla sedan range from practical to sporty, reflecting the different trim levels. The SE and XSE grades come standard with 18-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels, which achieve their striking appearance through a complex machining process combined with deep surfacing and dark gray accents. The LE Hybrid is equipped with 15-inch alloy wheels with covers, while the standard LE grade features 16-inch steel wheels with covers. The XLE grade offers 16-inch alloy wheels with a distinctive three-dimensional twisted spoke design.
While the article doesn’t explicitly detail the “Toyota Corolla Apex” trim, the sporty emphasis in design and available features strongly echoes the Apex Edition’s spirit. The Apex Edition, known for its enhanced handling and even more aggressive styling, builds upon the foundation laid by the SE and XSE grades, pushing the Corolla’s sporty persona further. The standard 18-inch wheels on SE/XSE are a step towards the more performance-oriented wheel designs often found on sportier trims like the Apex.
Interior Comfort and Sensuous Minimalism Design
Stepping inside the 2022 Corolla sedan reveals a cabin designed with principles of “sensuous minimalism.” The interior aims to be simple, warm, inviting, and even sensuous – descriptors more commonly associated with luxury vehicles. This design philosophy results in a space that is both sporty and elegant, while maintaining Corolla’s renowned comfort and durability.
The instrument panel is designed to feel open and harmonious, with a slimmer upper surface and character lines that flow into the door trim, creating an airy atmosphere. At the center of the instrument panel, an 8-inch high-resolution multimedia touchscreen is standard on all grades except the base L, which gets a 7-inch screen. This screen serves as the central hub for vehicle settings, audio controls, navigation, and multimedia functions. The center stack merges into a wider console, featuring an armrest that’s been extended by nearly 0.8 inches compared to previous models, enhancing front passenger comfort.
The cockpit is designed to be engaging for the driver while offering a spacious environment for all occupants. Visibility is enhanced through the strategic positioning of the instrument panel, cowl, hood, and beltline. High-gloss materials are tastefully combined with matte elements, including silver accents, Piano Black finishes, and available contrasting stitching, creating a premium look and feel. Attention to detail extends to minimized gaps between buttons and switches and the elimination of unnecessary lettering, contributing to a high-class ambiance. Consistency in material shape, color, grain, and gloss further maximizes aesthetic continuity.
Available ambient lighting subtly illuminates the front door trim, console tray, and front cupholder. The console tray is designed to hold small personal items or, when equipped, the optional Qi wireless charging pad. Thoughtfully designed terraced cupholders accommodate various beverage container sizes.
Digital Instrument and Multimedia Technology
The 2022 Corolla sedan is equipped with advanced digital tools for driver information and entertainment. A 4.2-inch thin film transistor (TFT) Multi-Information Display (MID) is standard, positioned between the tachometer and speedometer. A larger 7-inch MID is also available, offering drivers the choice between analog and digital speedometer displays. The MID features rich graphics and is highly customizable, allowing drivers to access information related to audio and multimedia systems, navigation, fuel efficiency, tire pressure, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), Lane Departure Alert (LDA), Road Sign Assist (RSA), Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), and other vehicle settings.
For multimedia, the standard system includes an available 8-inch touchscreen, six speakers, Apple CarPlay®, Amazon Alexa, and Scout GPS Link compatibility. Hands-free phone capability with voice recognition and Bluetooth® streaming are also included, along with customizable home screen settings and connected services like Safety Connect and Wi-Fi Connect Powered by Verizon. LE, LE Hybrid, SE, XLE, and XSE grades all come standard with the 8-inch touchscreen and 2 USB ports.
Upgraded audio options include Audio Plus (standard on XSE, XLE and optional on SE CVT), which adds SiriusXM Radio, Service Connect, and Remote Connect. The top-tier Premium Audio package, optional on XSE and XLE, features a JBL nine-speaker, 800-watt system with Clari-Fi, Dynamic Voice Recognition, Dynamic Navigation, Dynamic Points of Interest Search, and Destination Assist Connect. The JBL system is also available on the SE CVT and includes features like next-generation HID8 amplifier, horn tweeters, a 10-inch subwoofer, sealed inner door panels, midrange speakers in all doors, and Clari-Fi audio restoration software.
Enhanced Seating and Cabin Quietness
The driver-centric design of the 2022 Corolla sedan is further enhanced by optimized seating positioning. The driver’s hip point is positioned 0.91 inches lower and 1.57 inches further rearward compared to the previous generation, resulting in a more comfortable and engaging driving position. This change also contributes to a lower vehicle center of gravity and improved front/rear weight distribution. Combined with a lower beltline, slimmer instrument panel, slimmer A-pillars, and repositioned side mirrors, outward visibility is significantly improved.
Front seats in the SE and XSE grades feature a new design with a unique shape and headrest integrated into the shoulder area. LE and XLE grades offer a seatback with a new U-shaped pattern. The SE and XSE front seats are designed with thin yet broad shoulder supports, reminiscent of competition bucket seats, and feature solid side bolsters for enhanced lateral support during spirited driving, aligning with the sporty intentions hinted at by the “Apex” designation in other Corolla models. Seating materials range from standard cloth to SofTex in higher grades. New interior color schemes include Black/Blue, Moonstone, and Macadamia.
Despite its sleek styling, the 2022 Corolla sedan maintains ample passenger room, particularly in the rear seat area, with generous headroom and legroom. Noise reduction is a key focus, with powertrain and road noise minimized through revised drivetrain efficiencies and extensive use of sound-absorbing materials like Thinsulate®, sealants, foams, and silencers. The TNGA structure further enhances noise insulation through additional seals in body panel gaps.
Efficient Climate Control and Powertrain Options
The redesigned air conditioning system in the Corolla sedan is more compact, efficient, and effective. Features like a twin-layer recirculation/fresh air induction unit optimize climate control for different conditions, automatically adjusting to reduce fogging and maintain cabin warmth. Climate controls are located below the multimedia portal, featuring a digitized configuration with a Piano Black background and satin and silver accents.
Under the hood, the 2022 Corolla sedan offers a choice of powertrains. L, LE, and XLE grades utilize a 1.8-liter engine (2ZR-FAE). The SE and XSE grades are powered by a more potent 2.0-liter Dynamic Force direct-injection inline four-cylinder engine (M20A-FKS). This engine delivers increased performance and improved fuel efficiency. Key technologies in the Dynamic Force engine include a high compression ratio (13:1), Toyota D4-S fuel injection, high-speed combustion, VVT-iE intelligent variable valve-timing on the intake side, and VVT-i on the exhaust. These technologies contribute to 169 peak horsepower and 151 lb.-ft peak torque, while achieving a high thermal efficiency of 40%.
Advanced Transmissions and TNGA Platform
The 2022 Corolla sedan offers advanced transmission options to suit different driving preferences. The Dynamic-Shift CVT (continuously variable transmission) combines CVT efficiency with a more direct driving feel through a physical first gear for launch acceleration. This design reduces the size of CVT components and improves shifting speeds by 20% compared to conventional CVTs. The Direct Shift CVT features simulated 10-speed Sequential Shiftmatic steps and a Sport Mode.
For driving enthusiasts, a 6-speed iMT (intelligent manual transmission) is available. This transmission includes downshift rev-matching control, and Hill-start Assist Control is standard on both iMT and CVT models.
The foundation of the 2022 Corolla is the Toyota New Global Architecture-C platform (TNGA-C). This high-strength chassis enhances both efficiency and performance, while also contributing to interior and exterior build quality. The TNGA-C platform, combined with high-tensile-strength steel and advanced suspension tuning, provides a quiet and comfortable ride with agile handling. Torsional rigidity is improved by 60% compared to the previous generation. The body structure is designed for enhanced collision safety, utilizing a multi-load path front structure and high-tensile steel in key areas to disperse collision energy.
Safety Features and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0
Safety is paramount in the 2022 Corolla sedan, which features eight standard airbags and Toyota’s Star Safety System. This system includes Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist, Anti-lock Braking System, and Smart Stop Technology. A standard backup camera is also included.
All 2022 Corolla sedan models come standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, a suite of active and pre-collision safety features. This suite includes:
- PCS (Pre-Collision System): Detects vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists and provides automatic emergency braking.
- DRCC (Dynamic Radar Cruise Control): Maintains a preset following distance from the vehicle ahead, with full-speed capability on CVT models.
- LDA (Lane Departure Alert) with Steer Assist: Provides warnings and steering assistance to help prevent lane departures.
- LTA (Lane Tracing Assist): Provides lane centering assistance on highways (CVT models).
- AHB (Automatic High Beams): Automatically switches between high and low beams based on detected traffic.
- RSA (Road Sign Assist): Recognizes and displays Speed Limit, Stop, Yield, and Do Not Enter signs.
Blind Spot Monitor is available depending on the grade, and Brake Hold is a standard feature to reduce driver fatigue in traffic.
Manufacturing and Warranty
The Toyota Corolla sedan is assembled at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Mississippi (TMMMS). The Corolla Hybrid is assembled in the Takaoka plant in Japan, and the Corolla Cross is assembled at the new joint-venture plant with Mazda in Alabama.
Toyota’s comprehensive warranty includes a 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty, 60-month/60,000 mile powertrain warranty, and corrosion coverage. ToyotaCare, a no-cost maintenance plan, covers normal factory-scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years, unlimited mileage.
Conclusion: The 2022 Toyota Corolla Sedan – Style, Safety, and Value
The 2022 Toyota Corolla sedan offers a compelling package of stylish design, advanced technology, efficient performance, and comprehensive safety features. While not explicitly named “Apex” in this article, the sporty design cues, particularly in SE and XSE trims, along with available performance enhancements hint at the spirit of the Corolla Apex Edition. Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency, sporty handling, or advanced safety tech, the 2022 Toyota Corolla sedan provides a variety of options to meet diverse needs and preferences, all while upholding Toyota’s reputation for reliability and value.
