The 2018 Toyota Corolla iM gets 31 miles per gallon combined. It delivers sensible, budget-friendly transportation for those who prioritize reliability and practicality. The iM, a hatchback version of the Corolla, appeals to younger buyers and city dwellers who need a versatile vehicle without spending too much. It emphasizes value, and its fuel economy is a major selling point, even if it isn’t class-leading.

City and highway performance

The 2018 Corolla iM achieves 28 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway. The city rating reflects its ease of use in urban environments, where its compact size and responsive handling are appreciated. Start-stop isn’t offered to save money on the initial purchase, but the iM still performs well in stop-and-go traffic.

The 36 MPG highway rating makes it a competent long-distance cruiser, though the 1.8L engine requires some planning for passing maneuvers at higher speeds. The continuously variable transmission (CVT), dubbed AV-S7 by Toyota, tries to keep the engine in its optimal range, but this car prioritizes efficiency over power.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Toyota Corolla iM at $1,400. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Individual spending will vary based on driving habits and local fuel costs, but $1,400 provides a benchmark for understanding the iM’s running expenses. For buyers on a strict budget, this predictable fuel expenditure is a significant advantage. The savings compared to less fuel-efficient vehicles can quickly add up.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides standardized testing, but real-world fuel economy often differs. The 2018 Corolla iM generally lives up to its EPA ratings, but factors like aggressive driving, heavy traffic, and extreme weather can impact fuel consumption. Owners who prioritize smooth acceleration and maintain consistent speeds will likely come closest to achieving the advertised MPG figures. Regular maintenance, including tire inflation and oil changes, also plays an important role in maximizing fuel efficiency.

Don’t expect miracles if you drive aggressively, but drive conservatively, and you should see numbers close to the official figures.

How it compares

The 2018 Corolla iM faces stiff competition in the compact hatchback segment. The Honda Civic Hatchback achieves around 31 MPG combined in its base trim, but offers slightly better performance. The Mazda3 hatchback, lauded for its engaging driving dynamics, offers similar fuel economy, posting approximately 30 MPG combined. The Hyundai Elantra GT is another contender, delivering around 29 MPG combined, while providing a bit more cargo space.

The Corolla iM’s fuel economy is competitive but not class-leading, so buyers must weigh the pros and cons. Savvy shoppers may check COROLLA MPG across all years to see if previous generations offer better value.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 1.8L engine in the Corolla iM is designed for efficiency, and adopting a few simple driving habits can help you get more miles out of each tank. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, which consume more fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible, allowing the CVT to operate smoothly.

Tire pressure is a crucial factor in fuel economy. Check your tires regularly and ensure they are inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel efficiency. A simple tire pressure gauge can save you money on fuel.

Minimize unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Carrying extra cargo, especially heavy items, directly impacts fuel consumption. Remove anything from the trunk or back seat that you don’t need to carry. A cleaner, lighter car is more efficient.

Consider using cruise control on the highway to maintain a steady speed and prevent fluctuations that can waste fuel. While cruise control isn’t always ideal in congested conditions, it can be a useful tool on open roads. Be mindful of hills, as the cruise control system might aggressively downshift to maintain speed, hurting fuel economy. On hilly roads, use cruise control carefully or disengage it to manage the throttle manually.

Regular maintenance is important to keeping your Corolla iM running efficiently. Schedule routine oil changes, air filter replacements, and other recommended services. A well-maintained engine operates more smoothly and consumes less fuel.

Owners might visit all Toyota fuel economy data to learn about fuel-saving technologies offered in other Toyota models. The 2018 Corolla iM’s fuel economy is adequate in its class and the cost of fuel is far less than the cost of repairs.