The Toyota Corolla Sport is attractive for its stylish design and sporty driving. However, sales have been sluggish and it is lagging behind its competitors. Why is the Corolla Sport not being chosen by consumers?
In this article, we will explore the reasons why the Corolla Sport is not selling well from various angles, through pricing, comparison with competing models, Toyota’s sales strategy, actual user opinions, and expert analysis. If you are considering purchasing one or are curious about the future of the Corolla Sport, please read to the end.
Corolla Sport sales figures
Toyota’s monthly sales target for the Corolla Sports is 2,300 units. This is close to the number that can be produced, and production plans are being made to achieve this target. If sales exceed 2,300 units, the factory will be overloaded and delivery times will tend to be longer. If sales fall below 2,300 units, delivery times will tend to be shorter.
| Date | Gasoline vehicles | Hybrid vehicles | total |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 2024 | 300 units | 380 units | 680 units |
| February 2024 | 270 units | 320 units | 590 units |
| March 2024 | 350 units | 420 units | 770 units |
| April 2024 | 240 units | 490 units | 730 units |
| May 2024 | 200 units | 480 units | 680 units |
Corolla Sport registration numbers Source: Japan Automobile Dealers Association
For the first five months of 2024, new car registrations have been significantly below monthly targets.
Reasons for sluggish sales of Corolla Sport
Corolla Sport
There are several possible reasons for the poor sales of the Corolla Sport.
- Rise of competing models: In recent years, attractive hatchback models have been released one after another by domestic and foreign automakers, and the Corolla Sport is facing intensifying competition. In particular, the presence of powerful rivals such as the Mazda 3 and Subaru Impreza Sport is a major factor in taking away market share from the Corolla Sport.
- Impact of the popularity of SUVs: The recent boom in SUVs has caused a major change in consumer preferences. Even those who value sporty driving are attracted to the comfort and cargo capacity of SUVs, and there are an increasing number of cases of people switching from hatchback models such as the Corolla Sport to SUVs.
- Pricing: The Corolla Sport is by no means overpriced considering its equipment and performance, but the price of over 2 million yen even for the base grade may be too high for younger generations and those who are price-conscious.
- Rear seat comfort: Some say that the Corolla Sport sacrifices rear seat comfort in favor of a sporty design. This could be a problem for families and those who use the rear seats frequently.
Voices from consumers
A variety of opinions about the Corolla Sport have been posted on social media and review sites.
Positive opinions include “cool design,” “fun to drive,” and “full safety features.” On the other hand, negative opinions include “cramped back seats,” “expensive,” and “poor fuel economy.” Additionally, many people say that the Corolla brand image does not suit those looking for a sporty model.
Is the price too high? Corolla Sport base price and other fees
The base grade Corolla Sport is priced at over 2.2 million yen, which is higher than its competitors. When you take into account the vehicle price as well as taxes, insurance, and other expenses, the total price becomes even higher. This price setting may seem like a high hurdle for younger generations and those who are price-conscious. In particular, it is undeniable that it feels expensive compared to the Yaris and Corolla Wagon, which are also Toyota cars.
Comparison with competitors: Differences with Civic and Mazda
The Corolla Sport competes against strong rivals such as the Honda Civic and Mazda 3. These models have the ability to go head-to-head with the Corolla Sport, with their sporty design, excellent driving performance, and comprehensive safety features.
In particular, the Civic Type R has a strong presence and a strong sporty image, which differentiates it from the Corolla Sport. The Mazda 3 is also popular with those who value a premium feel, with its sophisticated design and high-quality interior.
Toyota’s sales strategy and Corolla Sport evaluation
Toyota is positioning the Corolla Sport as a “fun car that you can control at will” and promoting its sporty driving. However, there are many opinions that the Corolla brand image does not suit those looking for a sporty model.
Additionally, the Corolla series as a whole has a strong conservative image, which means it may not resonate well with young people or those who are sensitive to trends.
Why is it considered a “car for older men”?
The Corolla Sport has a sporty image, but its design gives off a somewhat conservative impression. For this reason, young people and women tend to think of it as “old-man-like” or “outdated.” Also, since the Corolla brand itself has been popular as a family car for many years, it may be difficult to shake off the image of it being “for older men,” even though it is a sporty model.
Corolla Sport Performance and Features
The Corolla Sport is equipped with a 1.8L engine + motor and a 2.0L direct injection engine, and combines sporty driving with excellent fuel efficiency. The hybrid model in particular offers brisk acceleration.
| Specifications | Corolla Sport | Corolla Sport |
|---|---|---|
| full length | 4,375mm | 4,375mm |
| Overall width | 1,790mm | 1,790mm |
| Height | 1,460mm | 1,460mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,640mm | 2,640mm |
| engine | Inline 4-cylinder DOHC 1.8L + motor (THS II) |
In-line 4-cylinder 2.0L direct injection engine “Dynamic Force Engine” |
| Maximum power | 72kW (98hp) / 5,200rpm |
125kW (170PS) / 6,600rpm |
| Maximum torque | 142Nm (14.5kgm) / 3,600rpm |
202Nm (20.6kgfm) / 4,900rpm |
| Front motor maximum output |
53kW (72hp) | – |
| Front motor maximum torque |
163Nm (16.6kgm) | – |
| Rear motor maximum output |
5.3kW(7.2ps) | – |
| Rear motor maximum torque |
55Nm (5.6kgm) | – |
| System Output | 90kW (122ps) | – |
transmission |
Electric variable speed transmission |
Direct Shift-CVT |
| Drive system | 2WD | 2WD |
| Passenger capacity | 5 people | |
| WLTC mode fuel economy |
25.6～30.0km/L | 17.2km/L – 18.3km/L |
The exterior features sharp lines and bold shapes, giving it a sporty and aggressive look, while the interior is simple yet made of high-quality materials, with a driver-focused cockpit design.
The latest safety features include Toyota Safety Sense, which comes standard and is equipped with a variety of functions, including collision avoidance assistance and driving assistance.
Grade and option selection
The Corolla Sport is available in three grades: G”X”, G, and G”Z”. The G”X” is the entry model, the G is the mid-range model, and the G”Z” is the premium model.
| grade | engine | transmission |
Drive system |
Price (10%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G “Z” | In-line 4-cylinder 2.0L direct injection engine “Dynamic Force Engine” |
CVT | 2WD | 2,728,100 yen |
| G | 2,476,500 yen | |||
| G“X” | 2,210,000 yen |
| grade | engine | transmission |
Drive system |
Price (10%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HYBRID G “Z” | In-line 4-cylinder 1.8L “2ZR-FXE” |
Electric variable speed transmission |
2WD | 2,978,100 yen |
| HYBRID G | 2,726,500 yen | |||
| HYBRID G “X” | 2,470,000 yen |
Each grade has different equipment and different prices. The G”Z” is characterized by its sporty appearance and substantial equipment, but it is also a little expensive. Popular options include a panoramic roof and a JBL premium sound system.
Fuel economy and environmental impact
The fuel economy of the Corolla Sport is 25.6 to 30.0 km/L in WLTC mode, which is a relatively good figure. In particular, the hybrid model has excellent fuel economy.
User Reviews and Experiences
In test drive reviews of the Corolla Sport, comments such as “The crisp acceleration is fun” and “The handling is light and easy to drive” have been heard. On the other hand, there are also opinions such as “The back seat is narrow” and “The road noise is bothersome.”
Actual user reviews are a mixture of positive and negative opinions, so it can be said that this is a car model that receives mixed reviews.
Size and handling performance
corolla sport
The Corolla Sport’s body size is 4,375 mm in length, 1,790 mm in width, and 1,435 mm in height, making it an ideal size for Japanese road conditions. The minimum turning radius is 5.1 to 5.3 m, making it easy to maneuver.
The interior space is ample in the front seats, but the rear seats are narrow and may feel cramped for three adults to ride for long periods of time.
Used car market trends and evaluation
In the used car market, Corolla Sports can be purchased at a relatively reasonable price. In particular, vehicles with low mileage and popular models tend to be traded at high prices.
When choosing a used car, it is important to check carefully whether it has been repaired or not, its maintenance status, etc. Vehicles with a repair history have a history of being repaired due to accidents or breakdowns, so you need to be careful.
Market Trends and the Future of Corolla Sport
The C-segment hatchback market in which the Corolla Sport is located is shrinking due to the popularity of SUVs while competition is intensifying. In order for the Corolla Sport to survive under these circumstances, it needs to further improve its appeal and differentiate itself. For example, improving the roominess of the back seats and improving fuel efficiency could make it appeal to a wider range of people.
It would also be an effective strategy to attract a core fan base by further highlighting the sporty personality of the Corolla Sport.
A word from the editorial department
The reasons for the Corolla Sport’s poor sales are thought to be a combination of factors, including the emergence of competing models, the popularity of SUVs, pricing, Toyota’s sales strategy, and back seat livability.
However, there are many attractive features that are unique to the Corolla Sport, such as its sporty design and driving performance. By further refining these attractive features and responding to consumer needs, the Corolla Sport may be able to regain its luster.
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