Is the Corolla still the crown prince?
Toyota Corolla Hybrid From €25,995
I’ve been driving the latest intriguing new Toyota Corolla models from the 12th-generation range in Majorca. The Corolla, with 46 million sales since 1966, ditches diesel for petrolelectric, self-charging hybrid power.
The name Corolla is derived from the Latin word for crown. It was first introduced in 1966 and in 1997 became the bestselling nameplate in the world.
The perky hatchback in the new generation is aimed at young couples while the Touring Sports estate is geared towards active families who need more space and flexibility.
They’re eye-catching, frugal, fun, practical and stylish and, on looks alone, live up to global chief executive Akio Toyoda’s demand for ‘no more boring cars’.
Best seller will be the economical Icon Tech 1.8-litre 122hp.
Some 90% of all Corollas will be hybrid, with just one in ten pure petrol. That’s because up to half of typical commuting journeys can be accomplished by the hybrid in allelectric mode, says Toyota.
The new Corolla marks a return for the famous name after a 12-year absence.
The hatchback is a rival to Volkswagen’s Golf and replaces the Auris.
There are four Corolla trim levels: Icon, Icon Tech, Design and Excel.
There are two hybrid engines. First, a 2-litre engine developing 180hp that accelerates to 100kph in 7.9 seconds to a top speed of 180 kph. It averages between 50mpg and 61mpg, with low CO2 emissions from 89g/km.
Or there’s the fourth-generation 1.8-litre hybrid developing 122hp that goes from rest to 100kph in less than 11 seconds with the same top speed and CO2 emissions from 76g/km.
There’s plenty of fancy electronic kit on offer including 3D-effect digital dials, head-up display, a panoramic sunroof and parking assist.
The Corolla range is priced from €25,995 for the hatchback Icon 1.2litre, 116hp, pure petrol – the only such engine in the range – and from €31,990, for 1.8 Hybrid Sol Touring Sports.
RETURN OF THE FAMOUS NAME AFTER 12 YEARS