What is the average of a 2021 Toyota Corolla?

The most common way people interpret this question is through fuel economy. For 2021 Corolla models, the typical average is about 33 miles per gallon (mpg) combined, though the exact figure depends on trim, body style, and driving conditions. Beyond fuel economy, the term can also refer to used-car prices, which vary widely by mileage, condition, and region.

Interpreting "average" for the 2021 Corolla

To answer this question comprehensively, it helps to look at several metrics: fuel economy, used-car pricing, and general ownership considerations. Below, we outline the most common interpretations and what to expect in each category as of the current market.

Fuel economy (EPA ratings)

Most 2021 Corolla sedans use a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The EPA ratings for these configurations are typically about 30 mpg in city driving, 38 mpg on the highway, and 33 mpg combined. The Corolla Hatchback, which uses a 2.0-liter engine, tends to show slightly different numbers, commonly around 31 mpg city, 38–40 mpg highway, and roughly 33 combined. Real-world results will vary with driving style, tire condition, and maintenance.

Used-car price considerations

In the current used-car market, prices for a 2021 Corolla depend heavily on mileage, trim, condition, inventory, and location. Roughly speaking, sedan models with moderate mileage often trade in the low-to-mid $20,000s or lower in many regions, while higher-mileage examples or lower trims may fall into the mid-to-high $15,000s. Well-kept XLE or sportier SE/XSE trims with lower mileage can push toward the higher end of the range. For precise pricing, consult sources such as Kelley Blue Book (KBB), Edmunds, and CarGurus for your area and exact trim/mileage configuration.

Other factors to consider

Beyond miles per gallon and price, the 2021 Corolla is known for reliability and economical upkeep. Owners typically report low maintenance costs compared with average compact sedans, strong resale value, and a suite of standard safety features carried over from Toyota’s Safety Sense packages. Features like Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility and driver-assistance tech are commonly available across trims, contributing to overall ownership value.

Bottom line

When people ask for the “average” of a 2021 Toyota Corolla, the most straightforward interpretation is fuel economy: about 33 mpg combined on EPA tests for sedans, with hatchbacks often nearby but slightly variant. If you mean price or ownership costs, expect a broad range in the used market—roughly the mid-$20,000s for well-kept, lower-mileage sedans, and lower for higher mileage or fewer features. Always check current EPA ratings for exact figures by trim and verify local pricing with reputable automotive valuation sites.

Summary

In short, the typical average for a 2021 Corolla most often refers to fuel economy, which sits around 33 mpg combined for sedans and slightly different for hatchbacks. Used-car prices vary widely based on mileage, trim, and region, with current market values best checked through Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, or CarGurus. The Corolla’s reputation for reliability and reasonable ownership costs also factors into its overall value in today’s market.

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. 

Is a 2021 Toyota Corolla a good car?

Yes, the 2021 Toyota Corolla is generally considered a good car due to its strong reliability, excellent safety ratings, and standard tech features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, it may not be the best choice for those seeking a powerful or comfortable ride, as some reviewers have noted its basic engine options and a firmer, less comfortable suspension.
 
Pros

• Reliability and low ownership costs: The Corolla has a reputation for dependability, with a high reliability rating and a low average annual repair cost. 
• Safety: It received a five-star overall crash protection rating from the NHTSA and comes standard with safety features like forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. 
• Standard technology: All trims include a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a feature not always standard on competitors' base models. 
• Fuel efficiency: While some real-world results varied, the Corolla is designed to be fuel-efficient. 

Cons

• Engine performance: The standard engines can feel underpowered, especially for highway driving. 
• Ride comfort: The ride can be stiff and unforgiving over bumps, and some models may have issues with road noise at higher speeds. 
• Handling: The car's lightweight design can make it susceptible to wind, and some owners report it is not ideal in snowy or wet conditions. 

Who is it best for?

• Commuters looking for a reliable, fuel-efficient, and affordable car for city and suburban driving. 
• Drivers who prioritize safety and standard technology over powerful performance. 

Who might want to consider other options?

• Drivers who frequently take long highway trips and desire a more powerful and comfortable experience. 
• Those who live in areas with frequent bad weather, as it may not be the best in heavy snow or rain. 

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 gas mileage on a 2021 Toyota Corolla?

The 2021 Toyota Corolla's MPG varies by trim level, with the Hybrid LE getting the best fuel economy at an estimated 53 MPG city / 52 MPG highway / 52 MPG combined. The standard gasoline models range from 30 MPG city / 38 MPG highway on the L and LE trims to the 31 MPG city / 40 MPG highway on the SE and SE Nightshade trims.
 
Standard gasoline models

• L, LE, SE Apex CVT, XSE Apex: 30 city / 38 highway / 33 combined MPG
• XLE: 29 city / 37 highway / 32 combined MPG
• SE, SE Nightshade: 31 city / 40 highway / 34 combined MPG
• SE 6MT: 29 city / 36 highway / 32 combined MPG
• XSE: 31 city / 38 highway / 34 combined MPG 

Hybrid model

• Hybrid LE: 53 city / 52 highway / 52 combined MPG