The new Toyota Corolla.
10-04-2023 14:42 - CAR NEWS
The new Corolla, a development of the current 12th generation range, is faithful to this spirit of innovation and Toyota's commitment to building ever-better cars. Its position as the second best-sellers in 2022 in the European C-segment for compact/mid-size models is strengthened with the introduction of Toyotas' fifth generation hybrid electric technology – 1.8 and 2.0-litre electrified powertrains that offer more power and a more rewarding drive, yet with improved efficiency. The fifth generation of Toyota's self-charging full hybrid electric technology is the heart of the new Corolla. Detailed engineering and design changes deliver a better driving experience, higher performance and improved efficiency. The changes include new power control unit and transaxle designs, a more powerful lithium-ion battery and calibration to achieve a more rewarding driving experience with a closer relationship between the driver's use of the accelerator and the drive force delivery.
The new Corolla is available with 1.8 and 2.0-litre powertrains. Total power from the 1.8-litre system is 140 DIN hp/103 kW, bringing a 1.8-second reduction in the 0-100 km/h time to 9.1 seconds. Despite this performance increase, CO2 emissions are lover by 2 g/km and equals 100 g/km. For the 2.0-litre system, total output has risen to 196 DIN hp/ 144kW and half a second has been shaved from the 0-100 km/h time, taking it down to 7.4 seconds. An impressive reduction of 12 g/km in the combined cycle CO2 figure , to 98 g/km.
The new Corolla range gains a more refined and contemporary appearance with changes to the front grille mesh pattern, fog light bezels and alloy wheel designs. A new lighting signature combines seamless LED daytime running lights and turn indicators in a single J-shaped unit that wraps around the headlight unit. Customers have new exterior colour options to choose from, inspired by new cultural and fashion trends. They include Juniper Blue, the lead colour for the new hatchback and Touring Sports, and Midnight Teal, an elegant green shade for the sedan. Also new is Metallic Grey, available for all three body styles. The interior design has been refreshed with new graphics, trim finishes and embossed upholstery patterns, generating a stronger sensory appeal. Colours and finishes are harmonised to create a contemporary look and feel, with a dark theme for the hatchback and Touring Sports and a light ambience for the sedan. LEDs are now used for all the interior lights, giving added brightness but using less power.
The Corolla line-up includes new GR SPORT versions of the hatchback and Touring Sports. First introduced in 2020, the GR SPORT grade brings extra sports styling touches, inspired by TOYOTA GAZOO Racing's multi-championship-winning achievements. The GR SPORT stands apart from the rest of the range with new-design 18-inch machined alloy wheels and different treatment for the rear bumper and under-guard. In the cabin the heated front sports seats have the GR logo embossed in the head rests and have black fabric upholstery with contrasting light grey sections and synthetic leather bolsters. The GR logo is also featured on the push-button starter.