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What drivetrain is a Toyota Corolla?

The Toyota Corolla, one of the world's best-selling and most popular compact cars, is equipped with a front-wheel-drive (FWD) drivetrain. This means that the engine's power is transmitted to the front wheels, providing efficient and responsive handling characteristics.


What is a Drivetrain?


A drivetrain is the system that transmits the power generated by an engine to the wheels of a vehicle, enabling it to move. It typically consists of the following components:



  • Engine

  • Transmission

  • Driveshaft

  • Differential

  • Axles

  • Wheels


The specific configuration of these components determines the type of drivetrain, such as front-wheel-drive, rear-wheel-drive, or all-wheel-drive.


Front-Wheel-Drive (FWD) Drivetrain


In a front-wheel-drive (FWD) system, the engine is mounted transversely (sideways) in the front of the vehicle, and the transmission is integrated with the differential. This allows the power to be transmitted directly to the front wheels, eliminating the need for a driveshaft to the rear wheels. The Toyota Corolla utilizes this FWD configuration, which offers several advantages:



  • Improved fuel efficiency due to the reduced weight and complexity of the drivetrain

  • Better traction and control in wet or slippery conditions, as the weight of the engine helps to keep the front wheels firmly planted on the road

  • More interior space, as the lack of a driveshaft tunnel allows for a more spacious cabin

  • Simpler and less expensive to manufacture compared to other drivetrain layouts


The front-wheel-drive layout of the Toyota Corolla contributes to its reputation for reliability, efficiency, and user-friendly driving characteristics, making it a popular choice among compact car buyers.

What does LE mean for Toyota?


Luxury Edition
L: Entry-level grade. LE: Luxury Edition. S: Sport. SE: Sport Edition. SLE: Sport Luxury Edition.



What drivetrain does a Toyota Corolla have?


Both 5-speed manual and CVT transmissions are offered. The 1.3-liter engine and all-wheel-drive variants are available only with the CVT transmission. The Corolla Fielder is available with 1.5-liter 1NZ-FE or 1.8-liter 2ZR-FAE four cylinder engines mated with a CVT transmission.



What does SE mean on a car?


Special Edition
While SE typically stands for Sport Edition, Special Edition or Special Equipment, the abbreviation also indentifies that the car delivers a higher class of trim than the model that is LE. Luxury Edition (LE) cars generally feature a base trim with standard features.



What year of Corolla to stay away from?


Quick Answer: Avoid 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2009, and 2014 Toyota Corollas. Throughout the lifespan of the Toyota Corolla, one of the most commonly reported problems is excessive oil usage in the engine. This was more common in the 2000, 2001, 2002, and 2009 model years, though it did appear in other years such as 2014 ...



What is the most sold car in the world?


Tesla Model Y
The Tesla Model Y was the best-selling car model in 2024, topping 1.09 million sales. It was followed closely by the Toyota Corolla. Overall global car sales grew to roughly 75.3 million units in 2023, and are estimated to have reached over 77 million in 2024.



Is the Toyota Corolla AWD?


While the conventional Corolla might not offer AWD, the Corolla Hybrid offers not only the most affordable hybrid in the Toyota lineup, but also the lowest price on an AWD vehicle.



What is the weakness of the Toyota Corolla?


While it's possible for any model of car to experience an oil leak at some point, the Toyota Corolla Versa has been known to have a particular problem with frequent oil leaks. Additionally, some Corolla drivers have reported excessive oil use from their Corolla models.



What is the most common problem in Corolla?


Some common problems with the Toyota Corolla include:

  • Oil leaking/excessive oil use.
  • Jerky acceleration.
  • MAF sensor problem.
  • Car vibrating.



When did Corollas stop being RWD?


5th generation: 1983-1987
The fifth-generation Corolla was the most comprehensive and revolutionary new model in its history, ushering in front-wheel drive and widespread use of computer technology.



What is the best AWD vehicle?


Best All-Wheel Drive Cars

  • 2025 Hyundai Kona. Save. $27,400. Starting Price.
  • 2025 Toyota Camry. Save. $31,320.
  • 2025 Honda CR-V. Save. $32,995.
  • 2025 Toyota Tacoma Xtracab. Save. $36,285.
  • 2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid. Save. $37,545.
  • 2025 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab. Save. $38,485.
  • 2025 Kia Telluride. Save. $42,805.
  • 2025 Genesis GV70. Save. $47,650.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.