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How reliable is the Toyota Corolla?

The Toyota Corolla is a legendary sight on SA roads. There are several reasons why this vehicle is so popular, but the stand-out factor is its reliability.

Buying a Car1 min read

Reliability Index

The Toyota Corolla, now in its 12th generation, has been a staple on SA roads since the 60's. Over 50 million Corollas have been sold, making the Corolla the best-selling nameplate in the world, surpassing even the indomitable Volkswagen Beetle. 

Related: Which Toyota Corolla trim depreciates the fastest?

There are numerous reasons why the Corolla is so popular, including fuel efficiency, ownership costs, and even styling, but one of the main factors is reliability.

How popular is the Toyota Corolla?

Toyota Corolla parked at the beach
Toyota Corolla 1.8 XR


The Corolla has consistently topped reliability charts year after year, earning the trust of Mzansi (and the rest of the rest of the world's) drivers. This reputation is built on decades of engineering excellence and a commitment to quality. - Ane Albertse


Interior of the Toyota Corolla XR
Corolla XR interior

Reliance Factor

In global reliability studies conducted by various platforms, the Toyota Corolla scores, on average, 4.5 out of 5, giving it a 94% reliability factor. It is not uncommon to find Corollas around the world sporting odometer readings over a million kilometres.

This means that if you are the proud owner of or are considering a Corolla, you will have peace of mind in knowing that you will have a very reliable car.

Author - Lawrence Minnie

Written by Lawrence Minnie

Lawrence has been involved with motorsports for almost 30 years. Whether it's two wheels or four, if it has an engine, he will try to race it. This love of motor vehicles has led him to ride, drive, film, photograph, and write about his passion. Freelance for a while but now a permanent fixture on the AutoTrader team for over 7 years, Lawrence contributes written, photographic, and video content for AutoTrader and AutoTrader Bikes.Read more

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