The 2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback emerges from a lineage of one of the world's best-selling cars, reimagined with a sporty 5-door hatchback body style. Part of the E210 generation introduced in 2019, key trims include the SE and XSE. New pricing ranged from approximately $20,665 to $23,915. It stands out for its sharp design, standard safety features, and Toyota's renowned reliability, appealing to buyers seeking practicality with a touch of flair.
The Good
Its advantages include impressive fuel efficiency, Toyota's legendary reliability, and a stylish, modern design that appeals emotionally. Practical buyers appreciate the standard advanced safety suite, strong resale value, and comfortable ride, making it an intelligent and dependable daily driver with engaging handling for its class.
The Bad
Known weaknesses include a somewhat limited cargo capacity compared to rivals and a snug rear seat that might be tight for taller adults. The 2.0L engine, while efficient, lacks strong acceleration for spirited driving, and some find interior materials slightly less premium than competitors.
2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 2021 Corolla Hatchback features a single engine option across all trims: a 2.0-liter Dynamic Force naturally aspirated inline-4 cylinder engine.
- Horsepower: This engine produces 169 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 151 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm.
- Transmission: Available with either a Dynamic-Shift Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that includes a physical first launch gear or a 6-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT) with rev-matching.
- Fuel Economy (EPA estimates):
- CVT: 32 MPG city / 41 MPG highway / 35 MPG combined (SE and XSE)
- 6-speed Manual: 28 MPG city / 37 MPG highway / 32 MPG combined (SE)
- 0-60 MPH Times: Generally around 7.3 to 7.8 seconds, varying slightly by transmission and specific testing conditions. This makes it adequately quick for daily driving but not overtly sporty.
- Towing Capacity: The 2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback is generally not rated for towing and Toyota does not recommend towing with this vehicle.
- Trim-Level Features:
- SE Trim:
- 16-inch alloy wheels
- LED headlights and taillights
- 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility
- Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 (pre-collision system, lane departure alert with steering assist, dynamic radar cruise control, road sign assist)
- Fabric-trimmed sport seats
- Automatic climate control
- XSE Trim: (Adds on or upgrades from SE features)
- 18-inch machined alloy wheels
- LED fog lights
- SofTex-trimmed heated front sport seats with power-adjustable driver's seat
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Larger 7-inch Multi-Information Display (MID) in the instrument cluster
- Available JBL premium audio system
- Optional SE Nightshade Edition: Based on the SE CVT, it adds blacked-out exterior accents like 18-inch black alloy wheels, black rocker panels, spoiler, and emblems for a distinct appearance.
- SE Trim:
2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2021 |
| Make | Toyota |
| Model | Corolla Hatchback |
| Trim | - |
| Style | CVT |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | - |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | - |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.0-L |
| Engine Size | 2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | Continuously Variable Transmission |
| Transmission Type | CVT |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback Have?
The 2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback, consistent with Toyota's reputation, is largely regarded as a highly reliable vehicle with relatively few frequently reported problems. Many owners praise its trouble-free operation.
However, some minor issues have been noted:
Recalls: For the 2021 model year, there have been a few recalls. One significant recall involved the fuel pump. A defective low-pressure fuel pump could cause the engine to stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash. This recall affected numerous Toyota and Lexus models, including the 2021 Corolla, and was part of a larger campaign that extended to prior model years. Another recall concerned the front passenger seat occupant classification system (OCS) sensor, which might not properly detect an occupant, potentially deactivating the front passenger airbag during a crash. Owners should verify that any open recalls on their specific VIN have been addressed by a Toyota dealership. Long-term reliability concerns are minimal for the Corolla Hatchback. Its drivetrain, built on a robust and proven platform, is expected to offer many years and miles of dependable service, provided regular maintenance schedules are followed. Major mechanical failures are rare, and parts are readily available and generally affordable.
However, some minor issues have been noted:
- Infotainment System Glitches: A small number of owners have reported occasional freezes or unresponsiveness from the infotainment system, particularly with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto connectivity. These are often resolved with a software update or a system restart, and not indicative of a major hardware flaw.
- Wind Noise: While subjective, some drivers have mentioned higher-than-desired wind noise at highway speeds, which isn't a defect but a design characteristic that might affect comfort for some.
- CVT Operation: While generally smooth, the CVT can occasionally exhibit the typical "rubber band" effect under hard acceleration, where the engine revs disproportionately to speed increase. This is inherent to CVT design and not a malfunction.
- Paint Quality: A very small percentage of Toyota owners across various models occasionally report concerns about thin paint or susceptibility to chipping, though this isn't a widespread problem specifically for the 2021 Corolla Hatchback.
Recalls: For the 2021 model year, there have been a few recalls. One significant recall involved the fuel pump. A defective low-pressure fuel pump could cause the engine to stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash. This recall affected numerous Toyota and Lexus models, including the 2021 Corolla, and was part of a larger campaign that extended to prior model years. Another recall concerned the front passenger seat occupant classification system (OCS) sensor, which might not properly detect an occupant, potentially deactivating the front passenger airbag during a crash. Owners should verify that any open recalls on their specific VIN have been addressed by a Toyota dealership. Long-term reliability concerns are minimal for the Corolla Hatchback. Its drivetrain, built on a robust and proven platform, is expected to offer many years and miles of dependable service, provided regular maintenance schedules are followed. Major mechanical failures are rare, and parts are readily available and generally affordable.
How long will the 2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback last?
Based on owner data and Toyota's stellar reputation for longevity, a well-maintained 2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback can comfortably achieve 200,000 to 250,000 miles, with many examples exceeding 300,000 miles. This translates to an average service life of 15 to 20 years for typical drivers. Long-term durability is a major strong suit, with the 2.0L engine and CVT transmission proving robust.
Weaknesses over time are typically minor and relate to wear-and-tear items: suspension components like struts and bushings might need replacement after 100,000+ miles, and interior plastics could show some wear. Electrical systems and major drivetrain components are generally very resilient, provided regular fluid changes and preventative maintenance are performed. Rust protection is generally good, but regular washing in salt-prone regions is advisable. Overall, it's built for the long haul.
Weaknesses over time are typically minor and relate to wear-and-tear items: suspension components like struts and bushings might need replacement after 100,000+ miles, and interior plastics could show some wear. Electrical systems and major drivetrain components are generally very resilient, provided regular fluid changes and preventative maintenance are performed. Rust protection is generally good, but regular washing in salt-prone regions is advisable. Overall, it's built for the long haul.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback comes well-equipped with built-in technology, entertainment, and a comprehensive suite of safety features.
Entertainment & Connectivity:
Driver-Assistance & Safety Features (Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 - TSS 2.0, standard on all trims):
Crash-Test Ratings:
The 2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback performed exceptionally well in crash tests:
Entertainment & Connectivity:
- Standard 8-inch Touchscreen: All models come with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
- Smartphone Integration: Standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility.
- Audio System: Six-speaker audio system is standard. An optional JBL premium audio system (available on XSE) includes 8 speakers and a subwoofer, providing enhanced sound quality.
- USB Ports: Multiple USB ports for charging and data connection.
- Wi-Fi Connect: Available subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot.
Driver-Assistance & Safety Features (Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 - TSS 2.0, standard on all trims):
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD): Detects vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists and can provide audio/visual alerts and automatic braking.
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA): Detects unintentional lane departure and can provide steering correction.
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC): Full-speed range system maintains a preset distance from the vehicle ahead.
- Automatic High Beams (AHB): Automatically switches between high and low beams based on traffic and lighting conditions.
- Road Sign Assist (RSA): Detects certain road signs and displays them on the Multi-Information Display (MID).
- Lane Tracing Assist (LTA): Works with DRCC to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane on highways.
- Rearview Camera: Standard on all models.
- Optional Safety Features: Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA) is optional on the XSE trim.
Crash-Test Ratings:
The 2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback performed exceptionally well in crash tests:
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): Earned an overall 5-star safety rating, the highest possible. This included 5 stars for frontal crash, 5 stars for side crash, and 4 stars for rollover safety.
- Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS): Awarded a "Top Safety Pick" rating. It received "Good" ratings in all six crashworthiness tests (small overlap front-driver's side, small overlap front-passenger's side, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraints & seats). Headlights received "Good" or "Acceptable" ratings depending on the trim, and its standard front crash prevention system (TSS 2.0) earned "Superior" ratings for vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-pedestrian prevention.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback typically retailed from approximately $20,665 for the base SE manual to around $23,915 for the XSE trim (excluding destination and options).
Currently, in the used market (as of late 2023/early 2024), prices can range significantly based on mileage, condition, trim, and region. A 2021 Corolla Hatchback might typically fetch anywhere from $18,000 to $23,000. Lower mileage, well-maintained XSE models with optional features command higher prices.
Depreciation for the Corolla Hatchback is relatively low compared to many competitors, thanks to Toyota's strong brand reputation for reliability and efficiency. It holds its value exceptionally well. Factors positively affecting resale value include low mileage, a clean title and accident history, consistent service records, popular color choices, and desirable features like the XSE trim or optional safety packages. Conversely, high mileage, accident damage, poor maintenance, or unpopular colors can accelerate depreciation.
Currently, in the used market (as of late 2023/early 2024), prices can range significantly based on mileage, condition, trim, and region. A 2021 Corolla Hatchback might typically fetch anywhere from $18,000 to $23,000. Lower mileage, well-maintained XSE models with optional features command higher prices.
Depreciation for the Corolla Hatchback is relatively low compared to many competitors, thanks to Toyota's strong brand reputation for reliability and efficiency. It holds its value exceptionally well. Factors positively affecting resale value include low mileage, a clean title and accident history, consistent service records, popular color choices, and desirable features like the XSE trim or optional safety packages. Conversely, high mileage, accident damage, poor maintenance, or unpopular colors can accelerate depreciation.
2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback Cost of Ownership
The 2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback is an exceptionally economical vehicle to own long-term. Insurance costs are typically below average due to its strong safety ratings and lower replacement part costs. Fuel economy is a standout, especially with the CVT, minimizing gas expenses. Maintenance is straightforward and affordable, with routine service intervals and widely available parts. Repair costs are generally low, as the vehicle is known for its reliability and durable components. Major unexpected repairs are rare. Overall, its strong resale value, low running costs, and dependable nature make it one of the most cost-effective vehicles to own, offering excellent long-term value.
2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
27.25 liters
City Mileage
3.19 km/l
Highway Mileage
2.47 km/l
2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback Safety Rating
NHTSA
2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback Insurance
Insurance for a 2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback competes fiercely in the compact hatchback segment, primarily against the Honda Civic Hatchback, Mazda 3 Hatchback, and Subaru Impreza Hatchback.
Performance:
Features:
Reliability:
Price:
Alternatives:
Performance:
- Corolla Hatchback: Its 169-hp engine offers adequate, fuel-efficient performance. It's not a powerhouse but provides a comfortable and composed ride with decent handling.
- Honda Civic Hatchback: Offers more engaging performance with its turbocharged engine options (174-180 hp), feeling quicker and more dynamic. The Civic Type R is a completely different performance beast.
- Mazda 3 Hatchback: Often praised for its premium feel and engaging driving dynamics, especially with the available 2.5L engine (186 hp) or even a turbo (250 hp). It feels more refined and sporty.
- Subaru Impreza Hatchback: Its 152-hp engine is less potent than the Corolla's, and its focus is more on standard AWD than outright performance.
Features:
- Corolla Hatchback: Standard TSS 2.0 is a huge plus. Its infotainment is good, but some interior materials can feel less premium than rivals.
- Honda Civic Hatchback: Offers similar tech, with slightly more practical cargo space. Interior design can be hit or miss for some.
- Mazda 3 Hatchback: Stands out with a more upscale interior design, higher-quality materials, and a sophisticated infotainment system, though some find its interface less intuitive.
- Subaru Impreza Hatchback: Offers standard AWD, a unique selling point. Its infotainment is decent, but interior quality is generally behind Mazda.
Reliability:
- Corolla Hatchback: Toyota's gold standard reliability is arguably its strongest asset, with low ownership costs and long-term durability.
- Honda Civic Hatchback: Also boasts excellent reliability, typically on par with Toyota, though sometimes with slightly higher parts costs.
- Mazda 3 Hatchback: Has significantly improved its reliability reputation and is now often considered very dependable, nearing Toyota/Honda levels.
- Subaru Impreza Hatchback: Generally reliable, but its AWD system can sometimes lead to slightly higher maintenance costs over time compared to FWD competitors.
Price:
- Corolla Hatchback: Tends to be competitively priced, offering great value for its standard safety features and reliability.
- Honda Civic Hatchback: Often starts at a slightly higher price point than the Corolla, especially for equivalent trim levels.
- Mazda 3 Hatchback: Can be priced similarly to or slightly higher than the Corolla, especially for its more premium-feeling trims.
- Subaru Impreza Hatchback: Often starts lower than the Civic or Mazda, making its standard AWD a strong value proposition for some.
Alternatives:
- For Sportier Performance/Driving Dynamics: Honda Civic Hatchback or Mazda 3 Hatchback.
- For All-Weather Capability (Standard AWD): Subaru Impreza Hatchback.
- For Budget-Conscious but Feature-Rich: Consider the Kia Forte GT-Line (if hatchback available in your region) or Hyundai Elantra GT (though discontinued after 2020, still a used option).
Final Verdict: Is the 2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback a Good Sedan?
The 2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback is ideal for drivers prioritizing reliability, fuel efficiency, and standard safety features in a stylish, compact package. It's perfect for commuters, first-time buyers, or anyone seeking a dependable daily driver with low ownership costs and excellent resale value.
It is absolutely worth buying, especially as a used vehicle, where its initial depreciation has already been absorbed. For most buyers, a used 2021 Corolla Hatchback offers tremendous value. The SE trim provides a great balance of features and affordability. The XSE trim offers more creature comforts like heated seats and larger wheels for those willing to pay a slight premium, enhancing the ownership experience without sacrificing efficiency. Opt for the CVT for maximum fuel economy, or the manual for a more engaging drive. Conditions to buy include a clean service history and ideally, an inspected pre-owned model from a reputable dealer.
It is absolutely worth buying, especially as a used vehicle, where its initial depreciation has already been absorbed. For most buyers, a used 2021 Corolla Hatchback offers tremendous value. The SE trim provides a great balance of features and affordability. The XSE trim offers more creature comforts like heated seats and larger wheels for those willing to pay a slight premium, enhancing the ownership experience without sacrificing efficiency. Opt for the CVT for maximum fuel economy, or the manual for a more engaging drive. Conditions to buy include a clean service history and ideally, an inspected pre-owned model from a reputable dealer.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.