2021 Toyota Corolla
Fuel Economy Overview
The 2021 Toyota Corolla achieves an EPA-estimated 34 MPG in combined city and highway driving, with 31 MPG in the city and 40 MPG on the highway. Powered by a 2L 4-cylinder engine paired with a automatic (av-s10), this compact cars features Front-Wheel Drive drive.
In terms of environmental impact, the 2021 Corolla produces approximately 257 grams of CO2 per mile. This figure is measured under standardized EPA test conditions and represents tailpipe emissions only. For context, the average new vehicle sold in the United States produces approximately 400 grams of CO2 per mile, meaning this Corolla performs better than the national average in this regard.
The estimated annual fuel cost for this vehicle is $1,750, based on 15,000 miles of driving per year and current national average fuel prices. Compared to the average new vehicle, you would spend $2,000 over a 5-year period. This calculation accounts for differences in fuel consumption efficiency and provides a practical measure of long-term ownership costs attributable to fuel economy.
Energy DNA
Green Scorecard
Personalized Commute CalculatorEPA defaults to 55% City / 45% Hwy
Adjust the slider to match your daily driving habits. City driving involves stop-and-go traffic under 45mph, while highway driving represents sustained speeds over 55mph.
Aerodynamic Speed Penalty
EPA highway tests average roughly 48 mph. Driving at 75 mph increases aerodynamic drag exponentially. Expect your real-world highway fuel economy to drop by roughly 15-20% at interstate speeds.
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership
Recall Intelligence
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, Lexus ES250, 2020-2022 Camry, Camry Hybrid, and ES300H vehicles. A short circuit may develop in the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, preventing the front passenger air bag from deploying.
Consequence & Remedy
Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed in February 2024. Some final remedy owner letters were mailed October 31, 2024. Letters will continue to be mailed in phases through January 2026. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TB15/23TA15 Lexus 23LB03/23LA03.
Loading live complaint data...
Looking for comprehensive historical data?
NHTSA FARS (Fatal Crash History) and broader generational safety trends are aggregated at the model level rather than by specific engine configurations. View the complete historical data profile for all Toyota Corolla configurations.
Similar 2021 Compact Cars Alternatives
2021 Mazda 2
1.5L 4-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
2021 Toyota Corolla APEX
2L 4-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
2021 Toyota Corolla XSE
2L 4-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
2021 Volkswagen Jetta
1.4L 4-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
2021 Hyundai Accent
1.6L 4-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
2021 Mazda 2
1.5L 4-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
Fuel Cost Analysis
Based on 15,000 miles/year and current fuel prices.
Efficiency Breakdown
Estimated Lifetime Carbon Footprint
(Based on 200,000 miles driven)