How much is a brand new 2021 Toyota Corolla?
A brand-new 2021 Corolla would typically fall in the roughly $20,000 to $28,000 range, depending on trim and options. Today, genuine new stock is scarce since the model year is no longer in production.
As a 2021 model, the Corolla was superseded by newer iterations, so finding truly new, unregistered units is uncommon and usually limited to leftover inventory at specific dealerships or regions. Prices can vary by market, taxes, fees, and any dealer incentives, so the exact out-the-door price will differ from one location to another.
Price range by trim
These figures reflect rough official MSRP ranges for the 2021 Corolla, illustrating how price climbs with higher trims and options.
- Corolla L: around $20,000
- Corolla LE: around $21,000–$22,000
- Corolla SE: around $23,000
- Corolla XLE: around $24,000–$25,000
- Corolla XSE: around $25,000–$28,000
- Corolla Hybrid LE: around $23,000–$25,000
- Corolla Hybrid XLE: around $26,000–$28,000
Note: These are approximate MSRPs and do not include destination charges, taxes, registration, or any dealer-installed options. Actual in-market prices may differ, especially for leftover stock or regional promotions.
Market reality and what to expect today
Finding a truly new 2021 Corolla today is uncommon. If you locate one, expect the price to be close to the original MSRP, with potential discounts or inventory-based adjustments depending on the dealer’s stock and local demand. Many buyers today seek newer model years with updated safety features and revisions that may offer better value or warranties, even if the upfront price is similar.
Dealers may also offer incentives on newer models that are not available on the 2021 stock, which can influence the total cost of ownership beyond the sticker price.
Practical tips for buyers who want a 2021 model year
To maximize value when buying any older-new stock, keep these guidelines in mind:
- Check the vehicle’s manufacturing date, VIN details, and title status to confirm it is truly new and not a former showroom or dealer loaner.
- Ask for a full breakdown of the out-the-door price, including taxes, fees, destination charges, and any dealer-installed options.
- Compare with 2022–2024 Corolla models to gauge value, safety features, and warranty coverage.
- Verify the remaining factory warranty and whether any special terms apply to leftover stock.
Bottom line: A brand-new 2021 Toyota Corolla would have cost in the low-to-mid $20,000s for base trims and higher for premium and hybrid variants; today, availability is limited, and prices depend on dealer policies and regional market factors.
Summary
In summary, a brand-new 2021 Toyota Corolla typically ranged from about $20,000 to $28,000 when new, with hybrids tending toward the higher end. Today, genuine new stock is scarce, so buyers should expect leftovers priced near MSRP or above, and should compare with newer model years for better value, warranty coverage, and updated safety features.
Is 2021 a good year for a Toyota Corolla?
Yes, the 2021 Toyota Corolla is generally considered a good car, praised for its strong reliability, excellent fuel efficiency, and standard safety features. However, it's important to be aware of some potential drawbacks, including a cramped back seat in some models, a stiff ride, and occasional transmission hesitation with the CVT.
Pros
- Reliability: The 2021 Corolla has a great predicted reliability score from sources like J.D. Power.
- Fuel Efficiency: It offers good gas mileage, making it an economical choice for daily driving.
- Safety: The Corolla comes standard with a suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane keeping assist. The sedan received a perfect five-star overall crash safety rating from the NHTSA.
- Value and Technology: It provides a good balance of features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on an 8-inch touchscreen for most trims.
Cons
- Performance: The base engine can feel slow, and some drivers have reported hesitation with the continuously variable transmission (CVT).
- Comfort: The ride can be stiff, and the back seat is noted as being cramped for adults in some configurations. The hybrid's cabin design and ergonomics also have some critical feedback regarding user-friendliness.
- Cargo Space: While the sedan's trunk is functional, the hatchback's cargo space is small and can be difficult to use for larger items.
Who is it good for?
The 2021 Toyota Corolla is a strong option for drivers who prioritize reliability, safety, and fuel economy and don't need extensive passenger or cargo room. It's a practical choice for commuting or as an efficient daily driver.
How much should I pay for a 2021 Toyota Corolla?
2021 Toyota Corolla Pricing
| Original MSRP | KBB Fair Purchase Price (national avg.) | |
|---|---|---|
| L Sedan 4D | $21,020 | $15,570 |
| LE Sedan 4D | $21,470 | $16,128 |
| SE Sedan 4D | $23,470 | $18,558 |
| SE Nightshade Edition Sedan 4D | $24,170 | $17,617 |
What is the trade-in value of a 2021 Toyota Corolla?
2021 Toyota Corolla trade-in prices range from $11,779 - $23,558. Get a more accurate value for your car with the Edmunds appraisal tool. Did you know? Vehicle appraisals vary significantly by zip code, mileage and condition.
What Toyota Corolla years to stay away from?
Years to avoid for the Toyota Corolla are primarily from 2000-2003 and 2009, due to significant issues like oil consumption, engine sludge, and automatic transmission failure. Other problematic years include 2001-2008 for oil consumption and airbag issues, and some other model years like 2011, 2012, and 2014, which had various problems with airbags, brakes, or transmissions.
Problematic years and issues
- 2000-2003:
- Engine sludge: Particularly in the 2000-2002 models, caused by poor oil circulation design that can lead to engine failure.
- Oil consumption: Models from this period are notorious for high oil usage, linked to worn piston rings.
- Automatic transmission failure: The 2003 model is frequently cited for issues with automatic transmissions.
- 2001-2008:
- Oil consumption: This generation is known for oil-burning engines.
- Airbag issues: Many Corollas from the 2000s are part of the Takata airbag recall, which requires checking if the recall repair has been completed.
- 2009:
- Oil consumption: This year also had reports of high oil usage.
- Water pump failure: A notable problem that could lead to overheating.
- Transmission problems: Reported on this model year as well.
- 2011-2014:
- Airbag issues: The 2011 and 2012 models continued to have airbag problems.
- Brake and unintended acceleration: Reported on the 2012 model.
- AC and engine issues: Some complaints have been reported for 2011 models.
- Transmission problems: The 2014 model had early transmission issues that were mostly fixed under warranty.
What to look for in a used Corolla
- Check recalls: Especially for airbag issues in models from the 2000s and 2010s.
- Inspect maintenance records: To see if oil changes were performed on time, which can help mitigate engine sludge issues.
- Consider later models: The 10th and 11th generation Corollas (roughly 2014-2019 and beyond) are generally considered more reliable, with the 11th and 12th generations (2020+) being highly reliable, according to Motorhub.
