Does the 2021 Corolla come with an underbody guard?
3 Answers
2021 Corolla is equipped with an underbody guard. Below is a detailed introduction of the 2021 Corolla: 1. The front features dual anti-collision beams and the chassis is reinforced with three transverse beams, combined with a high-energy absorption body structure; 2. The vehicle's skeleton largely utilizes hot-formed steel, and the longitudinal beams in the engine compartment are made of 980 MPa high-strength steel, with additional energy absorption and dispersion design features; 3. In terms of active safety configurations, the 2021 Corolla comes standard with 8 airbags and is equipped with Toyota's latest Toyota Safety Sense (TSS 2.0), which includes the PCS (Pre-Collision System), DRCC (Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Full-Speed Range), LDA (Lane Departure Alert), LTA (Lane Tracing Assist), and AHB (Automatic High Beam) systems, achieving Level 2 autonomous driving capabilities.
Last year I bought a 2021 Corolla Hybrid and specifically checked underneath. It comes with a factory-installed engine undercover made of black plastic, covering the oil pan and transmission area. However, this cover is relatively thin, mainly protecting against small stone impacts. If you frequently drive on rough roads, I'd recommend upgrading to a manganese steel one. Other parts of the chassis like around the exhaust pipe aren't covered, which would be insufficient for off-roading. I remember the salesperson mentioning that the entry-level 1.5L naturally aspirated version might have this cover omitted - best to check the specs sheet. During one maintenance session, I noticed accumulated mud on the inner side of the cover, proving it does provide actual protection.
Back when I worked at a 4S dealership, I came across quite a few Corollas, and the 2021 model did come standard with an engine resin guard plate. However, it's important to note that this guard plate has limited coverage, only protecting the powertrain area, leaving the fuel tank and drive shaft exposed. The advantage of the plastic material is its lightweight nature, but the downside is its susceptibility to scratches. I've seen owners install aluminum alloy guard plates during their first maintenance, with thicknesses reaching up to 3mm. For city commuting, the factory-installed one is usually sufficient, but in northern winters with snow and de-icing agents, having a guard plate can slow down chassis rusting. Don't expect it to act as armor—if you bottom out, damage is still likely to occur.
