Toyota corolla im vs hatchback: battle of the compact cars with a twist
What To Know
- The iM with the manual transmission delivers an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, while the CVT model achieves 29 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway.
- The Corolla hatchback with the manual transmission also gets 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, while the CVT model achieves 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway.
- The Toyota Corolla iM has a starting price of $19,500 for the base model with the manual transmission and $20,500 for the CVT model.
The Toyota Corolla is a renowned name in the automotive industry, offering a range of models catering to diverse customer needs. Two popular variants within the Corolla lineup are the iM and the hatchback. While both share the Corolla’s reputation for reliability and efficiency, they differ in certain aspects that influence their suitability for specific preferences and lifestyles. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Toyota Corolla iM and hatchback, empowering you to make an informed decision when choosing the ideal model for your needs.
Dimensions and Space
The Corolla iM is a compact hatchback with a slightly larger footprint than the standard Corolla hatchback. It measures 174.1 inches in length, 70.1 inches in width, and 58.3 inches in height, with a wheelbase of 106.3 inches. In contrast, the Corolla hatchback is slightly smaller, with a length of 171.3 inches, a width of 68.9 inches, a height of 56.5 inches, and a wheelbase of 102.4 inches.
The larger dimensions of the Corolla iM translate into more interior space, particularly in the rear seats and cargo area. It offers 38.3 inches of rear legroom and 22.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 53.4 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The Corolla hatchback provides 33.1 inches of rear legroom and 17.8 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 42.3 cubic feet with the seats folded.
Design and Styling
Both the Corolla iM and hatchback feature a modern and sporty design, but with distinct nuances. The iM has a more aggressive and angular exterior, with a prominent grille, sleek headlights, and a sloping roofline. The hatchback, on the other hand, presents a more subdued and conventional appearance, with a rounded grille, softer headlights, and a more upright stance.
The interior design of the iM and hatchback also differs. The iM features a more driver-oriented cockpit, with a center stack angled towards the driver and a flat-bottomed steering wheel. The hatchback offers a more traditional interior layout, with a symmetrical center stack and a round steering wheel.
Performance and Fuel Economy
The Corolla iM and hatchback are powered by the same 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 132 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque. Both models are available with either a six-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
In terms of fuel economy, the Corolla iM and hatchback achieve similar ratings. The iM with the manual transmission delivers an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, while the CVT model achieves 29 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway. The Corolla hatchback with the manual transmission also gets 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, while the CVT model achieves 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway.
Features and Technology
The Corolla iM and hatchback offer a range of standard and available features to enhance comfort, convenience, and safety. Both models come equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as a rearview camera.
The Corolla iM offers a few additional standard features not found on the hatchback, such as a sunroof, keyless entry, and push-button start. The hatchback, on the other hand, comes standard with a more comprehensive suite of safety features, including lane departure alert, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.
Price and Value
The Toyota Corolla iM has a starting price of $19,500 for the base model with the manual transmission and $20,500 for the CVT model. The Corolla hatchback starts at $19,950 for the base model with the manual transmission and $21,250 for the CVT model.
When comparing the price and value of the Corolla iM and hatchback, it’s important to consider the differences in their features and equipment. The iM offers more standard features, such as a sunroof and keyless entry, but the hatchback comes with a more comprehensive suite of safety features. Ultimately, the best value for your money will depend on your individual priorities and preferences.
Which Model is Right for You?
The choice between the Toyota Corolla iM and hatchback depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize interior space, a more aggressive design, and additional standard features, the iM may be the better option for you. If you prefer a more conventional design, better fuel economy, and a more comprehensive suite of safety features, the hatchback is likely the better choice.
The Bottom Line: A Tale of Two Corollas
The Toyota Corolla iM and hatchback offer distinct advantages and drawbacks, catering to different buyer profiles. The iM provides more space, a bolder design, and more standard features, while the hatchback delivers better fuel economy, a more comprehensive safety suite, and a more traditional design. By carefully considering the key differences between these two models, you can make an informed decision and choose the Corolla that best aligns with your lifestyle and needs.
Basics You Wanted To Know
1. Which model has a larger cargo area?
The Corolla iM has a larger cargo area than the hatchback, with 22.9 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, expandable to 53.4 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The hatchback offers 17.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 42.3 cubic feet with the seats folded down.
2. Which model has a better fuel economy?
The Corolla hatchback has a slightly better fuel economy than the iM. The hatchback with the CVT model achieves 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway, while the iM with the CVT model achieves 29 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway.
3. Which model has more standard safety features?
The Corolla hatchback comes with a more comprehensive suite of standard safety features than the iM. The hatchback includes lane departure alert, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control as standard, while the iM does not offer these features as standard.
