Toyota tranforms Corolla
RELEASE: HATCH WILL BE IN SA EARLY NEXT YEAR, BUT SEDAN IS A YEAR AWAY FROM LAUNCH
Produces 21% more power with better fuel efficiency than its predecessor.
Toyota’s next-generation Corolla sedan transforms the model’s style, driver engagement, comfort and refinement, while bolstering its renowned value and reliability.
The sleek new four-door version of the world’s best-selling car made its global debut at Auto Guangzhou in China, more than a year ahead of its expected arrival in showrooms.
The Corolla sedan will share many of the features and technology of the much-anticipated Corolla hatch (due for local release early next year), including an allnew 2.0-litre petrol version that produces 21% more power than its predecessor yet delivers better fuel efficiency.
The innovative super-rigid structure is complemented by a lower centre of gravity, new multi-link rear suspension and revised front suspension to produce a sportier, more engaging drive.
The sedan matches its hatch sibling with an upscale interior that is sporty and elegant while delivering characteristic Corolla comfort and durability.
A neat instrument panel lends an open, harmonious feel, thanks to its slimmer upper surface and character lines that interlock with the door trim.
The driver’s hip point has been lowered and moved rearward for improved comfort and control while helping to lower the vehicle’s centre of gravity and improve front-rear weight distribution.
These changes, along with the reconfigured lower beltline, slimmer instrument panel, slimmer A-pillars and repositioned side mirrors, contribute to greater visibility and an open, airy feel.
The sedan’s 2.0-litre Dynamic Force in-line four-cylinder engine incorporates Toyota’s latest D-4S system with more efficient and complete combustion, lifting maximum power to 125kW and peak torque to approximately 200Nm.
The engine features high-pressure direct injection and low-pressure port fuel injection with VVT-iE intelligent variable valve-timing on the intake side and VVT-i on the exhaust. VVT-iE uses an electric motor instead of oil pressure to control the variable valve timing.
A new six-speed intelligent manual gearbox offers downshift rev-matching control for smooth gear changes.
Buyers will also be able to specify a new Dynamic-Shift CVT with 10 sequential steps and a sport mode. An innovative physical launch gear results in powerful yet smooth off-the-line acceleration.
Advanced safety technologies include Toyota’s pre-collision system, active cruise control, lane trace assist, road-sign assist, automatic high beam, seven airbags and a reversing camera.