History of the Best-Selling Toyota Corolla – 1960 to 2023

The Toyota Corolla has been around for more than 50 years and is currently in its 12th generation. The first model of the Corolla debuted in 1966, and gradually, it became a global best-seller by 1974. It became the best-selling nameplate in June 1997. By 2000, the Corolla made up 20 per cent of Toyota’s worldwide sales. More than 46 million Toyota Corolla vehicles have been sold, according to Autoevolution.

In this article, we look through the evolution of the Toyota Corolla from the 1960s to date.

The Best-Selling Toyota Corolla through the Decades

1960s

The first-generation Toyota Corolla arrived in 1966. It was designed to add a touch of luxury to the family car and carry a more powerful engine. First sold as a two-door, it soon also came as a four-door sedan and a station wagon. 

In addition to packing a more powerful engine, it had a two-speed automatic, a four-speed manual, or a fully synchronized four-speed manual transmission. Its modern updates included bucket seats, a radio, a heater, armrests, and a centre console. 

1970s

The second generation appeared in 1970. It had a larger body with more comfort and better handling and performance. Toyota added a two-door coupe to the existing body styles, along with a five-speed transmission. Modern features included headrests, air conditioning, an AM/FM stereo, and windshield washers. The Corolla Levin high-performance model debuted in 1972.

In 1974, the third generation focused on low emissions and improvements in comfort, safety, and refinement. The Corolla remained an affordable car, although it had increasing competition. New emissions standards forced Toyota to make changes to the car’s multiple engine options. With increased interest in safety, the Corolla now had front and back crumple zones plus an impact-absorbing body. 

It also featured thicker doors and three-point retractor seat belts.

1979 brought the fourth-generation Corolla. It was more luxurious but more fuel-efficient.

1980s

In 1982, Toyota added a quieter, more aerodynamic, optional diesel engine. With the fifth generation’s 1983 debut, Toyota aimed to attract younger buyers. Front-wheel drive was now an option. The engines offered more power and better fuel efficiency. 

The four- and five-speed stick shifts remained, but three- and four-speed automatic transmissions became available. The various body styles included a two- or three-door coupe, a three-door hatchback, a four-door sedan, and a five-door liftback.

The sixth-generation Corolla appeared for the 1987 model year. Design changes this time focused on “performance, quality, and style.” Toyota discontinued the rear-wheel drivetrain and added a wider range of engine options. It also designed the body to be rounder and decreased noises, though engine sounds became louder.

1990s

The seventh generation came with the 1992 model. It was bigger, faster, and safer. Galvanized steel made up more of the body shell. Fuel efficiency improved. The larger size also provided more space for passengers and cargo.

1995 saw the arrival of the eighth-generation Toyota Corolla. It saw modifications for different markets. The new generation didn’t arrive in North America and Europe until 1997. Engine options were more powerful and more fuel-efficient. Modern features included twin airbags, remote locking, air conditioning, a CD player, and an electric sunroof.

2000s

With the arrival of the ninth generation in 2000, Toyota’s focus shifted primarily to the European market, although sales continued worldwide. This model made it to North America in 2003. Nine engines were available for different markets. 

Transmission options included a four-speed automatic, a five- or six-speed manual, and a five-speed multimode manual transmission. Critics didn’t find this generation particularly fun to drive. Toyota had designed it for families but with style and youthfulness. Designers also borrowed features from Toyota’s Lexus brand to improve the Corolla’s interior.

The 11th generation debuted in 2006. Some markets renamed the Corolla the Auris, which offered a hybrid powertrain option. Modern features included a backup camera, automatic climate control, and Bluetooth.

2010s

The 11th-gen Corolla arrived in 2012. It boasted an updated, more aggressive look and further improved fuel efficiency. A new hybrid powertrain also debuted.

The 12th and current generation appeared in 2018. It resembles the 11th generation but packs more powerful engine options, including a hybrid powertrain.

Why is the Toyota Corolla so Popular?

Though the early models of the Toyota Corolla might have a reputation for being a bit boring, the first and 12th generations carry their own coolness factors. But for many people, the Corolla’s predictability, reliability, and affordability are this compact car’s appeal. However, as with all vehicles, some model years are better than others. To avoid problems, steer clear of the 2002, 2009, and 2014 Corolla models.