Our verdict: The 2020 Toyota Corolla is a reliable workhorse for everyday driving
When shopping for a used car, the same question always arises: what makes a car good? For most Canadians, reliability, affordability, and practicality are key. By those measures, the 2020 Toyota Corolla is hard to beat.
For decades, the Corolla has been one of Canada’s top-selling cars. It is a go-to for drivers who need dependable, no-nonsense transportation. The 2020 model continued this tradition, offering a strong combination of reliability, fuel efficiency, and value that makes it an excellent choice for used car buyers.
The Corolla is powered by either a 1.8-litre or 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, both known for their durability and low maintenance costs. These engines are not prone to major mechanical issues, making the Corolla a worry-free option for long-term ownership. Whether you’re commuting to work, running errands, or looking for a second car, this model delivers consistent performance and practicality.
 The 2020 Toyota Corolla is the perfect used car choice for reliable, affordable, and practical daily driving in Canada. |
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With used prices for the 2020 Corolla ranging between $18,000 and $24,000, depending on mileage and trim level, it offers excellent value for the money. Maintenance costs are also reasonable, thanks to Toyota’s extensive dealer network and reputation for producing parts that last.
The Corolla is equally practical for daily use. Its trunk provides 371 litres (13 cubic feet) of space, which is competitive in the compact sedan class. The cabin is comfortable, with high-quality materials that hold up well over time. Its straightforward controls make driving easy and stress-free.
Fuel economy is another big selling point. The 2020 Corolla achieves a combined rating of 7.3 L/100 km, keeping operating costs low even as gas prices rise. If you’re looking for even greater efficiency, the hybrid version offers a combined fuel rating as low as 4.5 L/100 km, making it an attractive option for environmentally conscious buyers.
The 2020 Corolla was well-equipped for its time, and many features remain competitive today. Depending on the trim, you’ll find heated front seats, a backup camera, automatic collision notification, and a heated steering wheel. Apple CarPlay is included, although Android Auto was not yet available in 2020. Higher trims like the XLE or SE provide additional comfort and safety features, making them worth considering for those who want more amenities.
Another highlight is the Corolla’s continuously variable transmission (CVT). While CVTs are often criticized for being sluggish, the 2020 model’s transmission offers smooth and responsive performance, making it a solid choice even for drivers skeptical of this technology.
No car is perfect, however, and the 2020 Toyota Corolla is no exception. While generally dependable, some owners have reported specific issues:
- Air conditioning odour: Some drivers have noticed a sour smell emanating from the air conditioning system, even in vehicles with relatively low mileage.
- Transmission concerns: A few owners, particularly of the hatchback variant, have experienced transmission failures, sometimes as early as 32,000 kilometres.
- Brake system alerts: There have been instances where the anti-lock braking system (ABS) warning light activates, indicating potential issues with the braking system.
These issues underscore the importance of a thorough pre-purchase inspection and a detailed vehicle history report. While these concerns aren’t widespread, addressing them proactively can ensure peace of mind.
Our Verdict
The 2020 Toyota Corolla excels as a used car because it delivers exactly what most buyers need: reliability, affordability, and practicality. It’s not the flashiest car on the road, but for Canadians seeking dependable transportation, it’s a standout option.
Just look at the taxi fleets across the country – Corollas are everywhere. That’s no coincidence. When you need a car that works as hard as you do, the 2020 Corolla is an easy choice.
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