The Toyota Corolla was refreshed for the 2023 model year and now sports a variety of changes. Some of the minor changes could lead some prospective Corolla buyers to wonder if they should buy the new 2023 model or go for the current 2022 Corolla. If you happen to be on the fence, here are three reasons the new model could be the better buy.

1. The 2023 Toyota Corolla comes with a larger standard engine

For the 2022 model year, the Toyota Corolla’s lower trim levels (L and LE) came with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 139 hp. That may not sound too bad, but it’s slow, to say the least.

Fortunately, for 2023, Toyota axed the entry-level L trim level and kicked the power up a notch by making the larger 2.0-liter engine standard across all three of the Corolla trims. That engine produces 169 hp and 151 lb-ft of torque, which is not only better than last year’s model, but it’s also better than the power that the base Honda Civic produces.

2. The 2023 Corolla looks a little different than the outgoing model

Speaking of kicking things up a notch, Toyota sharpened up the Corolla’s looks with a new front fascia and LED running lights. The sportier SE and XSE trims now feature a more-aggressive gloss-black mesh lower front grille, a rear diffuser, and 18-inch Gloss Graphite-colored wheels.

As for exterior colors, the Toyota Corolla is now available in Midnight Black Metallic and Underground, which replaces Blue Crush Metallic. That means buyers have a choice of new colors to complement the new aggressive looks that the 2022 model didn’t have.

3. You can still get a fully loaded Corolla for less than $30,000

If you want everything that the 2023 Toyota Corolla has to offer, the top-trim XSE is what you seek. Its standard features include heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, a leather steering wheel, and a premium JBL sound system.

As for tech features, the Corolla XSE comes with wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity, a wireless charging dock, and a host of safety features. Some of those safety features include a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, and a Road Sign Detection feature.

The Corolla XSE has a starting price of $26,700, which is a bargain considering all of the standard features you get with the car.

Is the 2023 Toyota Corolla worth buying over the 2022 model?

Yes, considering the new look and features you get with the 2023 Toyota Corolla, we think it’s worth waiting for. Toyota just dropped the news on the new Corolla’s release, so it should be showing up at dealerships in the next couple of months, depending on your area.

All things considered, the 2023 model may only be a minor refresh, but it provides a good value over the outgoing model no matter which trim level you choose.