Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2016 Toyota Corolla SL
The 2016 Toyota Corolla SL is a sedan that earns a Carivo score of 7.8/10 — rated Recommended. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 9.3/10, while Performance at 6.3/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. Reliability stands out at 9.3/10. The Corolla SL nameplate has earned that score through its track record and a comparatively clean recall sheet. Safety lands at 8.1/10 — solid, though some rivals offer more advanced driver-assist features as standard. Confirm official results for your trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Performance at 6.3/10 is a genuine liability and a score that should factor heavily into any buying decision. The powertrain and chassis dynamics trail class rivals by a meaningful margin — don't overlook it. Technology scores 6.7/10 — the infotainment and driver-assist features feel dated against current-generation rivals. This is worth weighing if you prioritize connected features or modern safety tech.
Priced from $21,785–$28,557, 27 MPG, seating 5, the Toyota Corolla SL sits in the budget-friendly tier of the sedan market. Its value score of 8.1/10 confirms that the price reflects the quality — you're getting a lot for your money here. At 10 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Verdict: Nothing about the 2016 Toyota Corolla SL will scare a sensible buyer off. Keep an eye on technology and performance if those matter to you; otherwise it does what a good sedan should — quietly and competently.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Sedans
The 2016 Toyota Corolla SL ranks #347 of 1310 sedans in the Carivo database — better than 74% of the segment. Its 7.8/10 overall score is 0.3 points above the segment average of 7.5/10. Its $21,785 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $27,664 by about 21%.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Corolla SL Year Should You Buy?
Across the Corolla SL model years we've scored, the 2016 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Proven long-term reliability — lower unplanned repair costs than class average
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Good overall value; holds its own against pricier alternatives in the segment
Accessible entry price makes it one of the more affordable options in the category
✗ Where it falls short
Performance is a genuine liability — well below class rivals and worth factoring into any decision
Tech suite is functional but lags behind segment-best options; some features cost extra
Common Questions — 2016 Toyota Corolla SL
Is the 2016 Toyota Corolla SL reliable?
We rate the 2016 Toyota Corolla SL's reliability 9.3/10 — one of the stronger records in its class.
Is the 2016 Toyota Corolla SL worth buying?
It scores 7.8/10 overall, ranking #347 of 1310 sedans in our database (better than 74% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2016 Toyota Corolla SL cost?
The 2016 Toyota Corolla SL starts at $21,785 and ranges up to $28,557 across trims (MSRP when new). At 27 MPG, expect roughly $1,944/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Corolla SL years should you avoid?
No standout weak years: across the 11 Corolla SL model years we've scored, every year lands within half a point of the best (8.1/10). Pick on price and condition rather than year.
Owner Essentials — Toyota Corolla SL
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More Toyota Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Toyota models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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