The 2016 Toyota Corolla is a compact car with a price range of $14,812 to $19,942. The low cost of ownership makes it an excellent long-term value for buyers looking for a small sedan.
2016 Toyota Corolla: Quick Overview
- New features for 2016 include a Special Edition model, and Siri Eyes Free is included in the Entune infotainment system.
- Reliability ratings are great, according to J.D. Power. It has fewer complaints than earlier years as well.
- Two engines are available. Both are built on the same base engine, but the Eco version has additional horsepower and is more fuel-efficient.
- Fuel efficiency is great for its class, tying for 3rd out of 38 compact cars, getting a combined rating of up to 34 miles per gallon.
- Safety ratings are better than average for a compact sedan, getting five stars in government crash tests.
- The 2016 Toyota Corolla ranks near the middle of its class based on owner reviews. It’s a good choice with a dependable engine, and a large interior for its size.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2016 Toyota Corolla Have?
The 2016 Toyota Corolla has fewer problems than the 2015 model, but more than the 2017. Complaints are lower than other compact sedans. The 2016 Corolla problems encompass bad brakes, airbags that may fail to deploy, and random loss of steering control.
Brake problems, including grinding noises, are the most frequent complaints owners have with the Corolla. It’s commonly caused by excessive pad wear and if you have noisy brakes you may need to replace the pads.
Interior problems and rattling dashboards are also mentioned by owners. Noisy interior panels are typically caused by damaged clips or loose screws, making the parts rattle.
Steering problems, including drifting while driving, are rare issues. Usually, if the steering feels disconnected or very light, then it’s an alignment problem.
There is one recall affecting the 2016 Corolla, better than average for its age. It’s for the airbags and seat pretensioners, it’s a good idea to have it fixed for the safety of you and your passengers.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2016 Toyota Corolla’s five trims offer visual upgrades, host of standard safety and convenience features. The 2016 Corolla ranks near the middle of its class based on price, with a price range of $14,812 to $19,942, depending on the mileage and model. When new, it had a retail price of $17,300 to $23,125. Depreciation is slower than average in current market conditions, losing only about 15% of its value in the first five years.
- L is the entry-level model with 15-inch steel wheels, cloth seating, power door locks, power windows, an Entune Audio suite with a 6.1-inch touch screen, and USB and Bluetooth connectivity.
- LE is above it in the lineup with 16-inch alloy wheels, heated outside mirrors, backup camera, automatic climate control, remote keyless entry, and cruise control.
- LE Eco focuses on fuel efficiency and has a retuned engine, rear spoiler, and ECO driving mode.
- S is a sportier model with 17-inch alloy wheels, rear disc brakes, a rear spoiler, a sport driving mode, and an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with SofTex artificial leather seating.
- Special Edition is the flagship model with gloss black 17-inch alloy wheels, an upgraded interior with black SofTex, and red contrast stitching.
How Long Will the 2016 Toyota Corolla Last?
The 2016 Toyota Corolla is one of the longest-lasting compact cars. It should last over 300,000 miles when properly cared for. Repair Pal estimates maintenance costs to be $370 per year, more affordable than other cars
It is very reliable. Great gas mileage and gets me where I need to go. I can feel comfortable knowing I will be safe and warm while driving.
No it does it not have any problems. It is been a very good vehicle to me and haven't had much problems at all.
Thus far (6-8 months) since I have obtained the car I have had no problems with the car. Some things that I have 'not enjoyed' is the that it takes a second for the car to get up to a higher speed.
I work and go to school, my car is gas efficient, which is great for me because of my budget. I know next to nothing about cars but my car really is self explanatory. Even reading the manual is simple! It is been with me through my first semester of nursing school and it has been perfect!
Very reliable with no problems and easy to understand instructions on how to use and operate the Toyota corolla vehicle.
Yes, very reliable. I have not had any problems with the vehicle. I regularly get oil changes and keep up with maintenance.
Very reliable. I have only had to get it maintenance since I got it at the dealership. The only thing is I have to get software updated.
The only problem I have had so far is the blower motor going out. It is not a hard fix and can be done at home. I use this as my daily and when I have to drive ten hours to get back to my home state.
2016 Toyota Corolla Test Drive
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Technology is good in the 2016 Corolla, but it’s not class-leading. Infotainment is better-than-average, but it’s missing the latest safety tech found in its competitors.
- Base technology includes an infotainment system with a 6.1-inch touchscreen, USB, and Bluetooth connectivity, and a six-speaker stereo system.
- Upgrades include a premium audio system with more power, satellite radio, and a navigation system.
- For safety, the 2016 Corolla comes standard with antilock brakes, stability control, and airbags. Optional upgrades include a backup camera on the LE and higher models.
What Engine Options are Available?
One engine is available in the 2016 Toyota Corolla, a 1.8L four-cylinder with 132 horsepower. A re-tuned version is found in the Eco model with more efficiency and power, producing 140 horsepower. Performance is average for a compact car, going from 0 to 60 in 8.5 seconds.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the Corolla?
The 2016 Corolla is a compact car, similar in size to its competitors. Legroom is good in the rear seats, but headroom is limited. It has less cargo space than some of its competitors, with only 13 cu. ft. of room in the trunk, enough space for three suitcases.
How Does the 2016 Toyota Corolla Compare to Other Cars?
The 2016 Toyota Corolla ranks 12th out of 38 compact cars based on owner reviews.
At the top of the compact car class is the Volkswagen Beetle, which is similarly priced to the Corolla. The Corolla has better reliability ratings and more up-to-date technology, but the Beetle is more fun to drive with its powerful engine. Between the two, the Corolla is a better daily driver, and the Beetle is a more unique choice.
Another rival is the Honda Civic, which is slightly more expensive than the Corolla. The Civic has updated technology compared to the Toyota. Reliability, power, and fuel efficiency are very close between the two. Overall, the Civic is a better choice since you get more technology for your money.
Final Verdict: Is the 2016 Toyota Corolla a Good Car?
Based on our research of 1,615 owner reviews, and 14 automotive and government websites, yes, the 2016 Corolla is a good car. It has excellent long-term reliability and is a comfortable car for its size. Where it falls short is with dated technology, and it’s a bit underpowered. Overall, it’s one of the longest-lasting compact cars on the market and a great choice for shoppers.
