A CLASSIC UPDATED
One of the best-selling automobile nameplates has just gotten better. Meet the new and improved Toyota Corolla.
Since its launch in 1966, the Corolla has become a household name the world over. Now in its 12th generation, this compact city car combines Toyota’s exciting new design direction with the tried-and-tested virtues of the Corolla brand. DARING DESIGN
The new Corolla sedan features a highly expressive shape, adopting a similar front-end treatment as the Corolla Hatch and featuring a prominent lower apron, sculpted headlights and flowing three-box design. Visibility for the driver has been improved by implementing thinner A-pillars and a lowered dashboard and bonnet. You can choose from eight exterior colours: Celestite Grey, Crimson Red, Moonlight Ocean, Scarlet, Dark Blue, Pearl White, Glacier White and Satin Silver.
INTERIOR AMBIENCE
Simple and elegant, the new Corolla features reduced upper-panel height, soft-touch finishes and brushed metal accent strips. Blue contrast stitching adds an air of sportiness and harmonises with blue illumination for the switchgear and instrument panel. A revised front seat design with a stylish, ribbed pattern and bucket-like profile lends a premium feel to the cabin.
STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY AND WEIGHT OPTIMISATION
Design innovations and clever use of materials have resulted in a considerable weight reduction for the body (helping to improve overall fuel efficiency) and increased body rigidity, promoting a marked increase in handling agility, responsiveness to steering inputs and high-speed stability. Handling and agility are further improved by the lower mounting height of the engine and lower hip point of the seats. The new suspension system has undergone several geometry changes and updates that ensure greater control, even when driving over rough surfaces. Add to this vibration dampening and sound absorbing technology, and you’re in for a smooth ride in the Corolla.
SIMPLIFIED POWERTRAIN
You have two engines options. The previous-generation, 1.8-litre mill delivers 103kW and 171Nm. This unit is mated to a ‘7-speed’ Shiftmatic CVT transmission with 7 pre-programmed steps. The new 2.0-litre ‘Dynamic Force’ TNGA engine ups the ante to 125kW and 200Nm. Two transaxle options exist here: a 6-speed manual or ‘10-speed’ Shiftmatic CVT. Fuel consumption for the 1.8-litre is listed as 6.2 l/100 km, the 2.0-litre manual at 6.5 and finally the 2.0-litre CVT at 6.0 l/100 km.
TWO GRADES, THREE MODELS
Two grade options are offered: XS and XR. The XR model serves as the flagship and is available exclusively with the new 2.0-litre Dynamic Force engine with a choice of 6-speed manual or 10-speed Shiftmatic CVT. The 1.8 XS serves as the entry point to the range.
CONVENIENCE AND TECH
The new Corolla sedan delivers on both the tech and convenience fronts with the inclusion of Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and a touchscreen interface. On the spec list you’ll also find climate control with eco mode, a reverse camera, power seat adjustment, one-touch functionality for the electric windows, keyless entry, tilt and telescopic steering adjustment, steering switches and cruise control. XR models feature an auto-dimming rear-view mirror too.
SAFETY AND SENSIBILITY
All models feature seven airbags, ISOFIX, active electronic safety aids (ABS, EBD, BAS, VSC, HAC) and an impact absorbing bodyshell. The flagship XR grade comes with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) – a full complement of active driver aids. The XR also had Bi-LED headlamps.