Toyota Corolla sneaks in amid the chaos
The world’s best-selling automotive nameplate,Corolla is back again with another rendition. The 12-generation Corolla sedan follows a few months after the Corolla hatch and now finally have an exciting and good looking Corolla to look forward to.
It Looks Fantastic
Adopting the same front-end treatment as the Corolla Hatch (with minor variations) Corolla features a prominent lower apron and sculpted headlights. The front bumper employs a large trapezoidal lower grille, with black-moulded border and large mesh pattern. The arrow-shaped LED headlamps, with integrated DRL elements.
According to Ueda-san, Corolla Chief Engineer: “One of the big merits of the new platform is that it allows designers more freedom to create a dynamic exterior.”
Dimensionally the new Corolla is 20mm lower, with the bonnet edge sitting 35mm lower and the front overhang registering 25mm shorter. Front and rear tread have been increased by 11 and 22mm respectively. Corolla is available in 8 colours.
Interior
The new Corolla sedan adopts the same interior design as its hatch sibling, featuring a simple design, reduced upper-panel height, soft-touch finishes and brushed metal accent strips. In sedan execution, blue contrast stitching harmonises with blue illumination for the switchgear and instrument panel.
A revised front seat design with elegant ribbed pattern and bucket-like profile lends a premium feel to the cabin. A new-age synthesized fabric called RezatecTM is used, offering the comfort of fabric with the premium feel of leather. The high-grade (XR) model offers a choice of sporty blue or classic grey accent trim colours.
Structural Integrity and Weight Optimisation
Aluminium, high-tensile strength steel and hot-stamped materials have been extensively used, and the panel thickness of the doors and roof panel reduced. This has resulted in a considerable weight reduction for the body, helping to improve overall fuel efficiency. The addition of adhesives throughout the new bodyshell and an increase in the use of spot welding, combine to increase body rigidity by some 60% over the outgoing models. This should make for better handling and road holding.
The engine is also mounted lower improving Corolla’s centre of gravity by some 10 mm.
Simplified Powertrain
Two engines options are employed in the new Corolla. The 1.8-litre mill is carried over from the previous generation, delivering 103kW and 171Nm. This unit is mated to a ‘7-speed’ Shiftmatic CVT transmission with 7 pre-programmed steps.
Next up is the new 2.0-litre ‘Dynamic Force’ TNGA engine (as first seen on RAV4) which ups the ante to 125kW and 200Nm – with a strong focus on fuel efficiency. 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.
The XS rolls on 16” alloy wheels shod with 205-55-R16 tyres. XR models receive ultra-stylish turbine-shaped 18” alloy wheels outfitted with 225-40-R18 tyres.
Technology
The new Corolla sedan delivers on both the tech and convenience fronts, with the inclusion of Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and touchscreen interface. Climate control with Eco mode, a reverse camera, power seat adjustment, one-touch functionality for the electric windows, keyless entry, tilt & telescopic steering adjustment, steering switches and cruise control all feature on the spec’ list. XR models feature an auto-dimming rear view mirror too.
Two levels of Multi-information Display (MID) systems are utilised. The XS grade uses a 4.2” display with the XR variants employing a large 7” MID system with digital speedometer.
Safety
On the safety front the Corolla certainly delivers. All models feature seven airbags, ISOFIX, active electronic safety aids (ABS, EBD, BAS, VSC, HAC) and an impact absorbing bodyshell. The flagship XR grade receives Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) – a full complement of active driver aids. The XR also receives an upgrade to Bi-LED headlamps.
This suite combines Pre-collision system, blind spot monitor, all-speed cruise control, automatic high-beam and Lane Trace Assist – conveniently operated via steering switches or the multi-information display.
New Corolla is currently on sale in South Africa.
Model Line-up and Pricing
Corolla 1.8 XS CVT – R 372 700
Corolla 2.0 XR 6MT – R 412 300
Corolla 2.0 XR CVT – R 425 200
Warranty & Service
All Corolla models include a 6-services/90 000 km service plan with service intervals pegged at 15 000 km/12-months. A 3 year/100 000 km warranty is also included.
