2024 Toyota Corolla ZR: Quick review

Having had a Corolla ZR myself for almost 2 years, I'm confident in saying it's the car I'd be happy to return to.

In 2021 Toyota reached the incredible milestone of 50 million Corollas sold globally.

Since arriving in Australia in the 60s the Toyota Corolla has been a household name in the Australian automotive market for decades and is one of the world's best-selling vehicles!

With the 2024 Corolla, Toyota continues the Corolla's storied lineage with sporty aesthetics and modern tech.

Let's dive into the top of the range ZR and what you'll get.

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Pricing and features

The Toyota Corolla comes in two body styles: the more budget-friendly five-door hatchback and the pricier sedan. Spec is more or less identical with a few outliers.

Positioned as the most premium variant in the Corolla lineup, the ZR brings a lot to the table. At $39,100 before on-road costs, the top-spec hatch is a humble and easy to jump into car. Its athletic stance, accentuated by sharp lines and unique alloy wheels, promises a dynamic drive.

The interior echoes the sporty theme with a driver-centric cockpit, quality materials, and touches of elegance. The infotainment system, while straightforward, offers essential connectivity options like wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto.

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The Corolla range from 2024 is available in only a 1.8L hybrid version.

The 1.8-litre engine with the ever-popular hybrid technology produces 103kW and 142Nm.

Fuel economy is something to boast about with hybrid variants using only 4.0L/100km (3.9L for Sedan) on a combined cycle.

The sedan is offered in the same three grades as the hatch – Ascent Sport, SX and ZR– with ZR topping off at $40,260 before on-roads.

The entry-level Corolla comes standard with plenty of spec, including:

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The range-topping ZR adds plenty of luxury spec, such as:

You may consider stepping down into the mid-range SX which incorporates some of the above spec.

The option of a two-tone black roof is available for most colours in the ZR hatch and two seat trims – red and black leather accented.

Safety

The entire Corolla range is covered by a 5-star ANCAP rating from 2018.

In the ZR you'll get additional safety listed above such as rear cross traffic alert, blind-spot monitor, safe exit assist and parking sensors.

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Key rivals

The small hatch and sedan segment has its share of worthy contenders, including:

• Hyundai i30
• Mazda 3
• Kia Cerato
• Volkswagen Golf
• Honda Civic

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Should I put it on my shortlist?

The 2024 Toyota Corolla ZR is an edgy take on a trusted classic. It offers a harmonious blend of sportiness, reliability, and modern features.

For those seeking a car that's both fun and dependable, the Corolla is a good contender that deserves a spot on your list. I mean, it's one of the worlds best selling cars ever, and one I enjoyed driving everyday because it never used more that 4.8L/100km.

As is the case with most Toyota vehicles, we're in favour of the economical hybrid powertrain however removing the petrol variant means this is almost a 45k car. If you aren't restricted to a budget the ZR has all the creature comforts you'll very quickly be happy you chose.