The Evergreen Corolla Updated for 2017

The Corolla nameplate has been a much loved and respected in South Africa for more than 50 years. Over 1 000 000 Toyota Corollas have been sold in South Africa, making it one of the most popular models ever to grace our roads.

It’s not only locally that the model has enjoyed this success; worldwide, more than 45 million Corollas have been sold, which places it right up there with the VW Beetle and Ford Model T. In all actuality, it is the best selling car of all time.

11 generations in, and it still promises to maintain its hold on the hearts and souls of people around the world. With the current generation (E170) a  few years into its cycle, it’s received a minor update to make it even more appealing to customers.

Cosmetics

While still largely the same sheet metal, the front of the Corolla receives a new, narrow, streamlined grille, offset with new headlights that give it an even more contemporary look. The lower half of the bumper has a new airdam treatment, with racy straking in the corners. While it initially seems like a bit of overkill, the edges soften the longer you look at it. Exclusive models receive LEDs as well.

At the back, a chrome garnish trim now spans the length of the bootlid, emphasizing the horizontal lines and creating the appearance of increased width. 1.8-litre models are now also fitted with LED taillights.

Beauty within

The interior has not escaped the revision wand and a new piano-black trim graces the center fascia and the infotainment system sees some growth with the screen growing from 6.1-inches to a full 7-inches in the Prestige model upwards. The instrument cluster has some minor changes that elevate the perception of quality while circular air vents now rest either side of the dashboard. A new design HVAC control interface matches the rest of the updates, leaving the interior feeling considerably modern while maintaining E170 Corolla ergonomics.

While some may feel that the piano-black trend has outstayed its welcome, it still proves to be a popular choice amongst consumers. The overall fit and finish is just typical Corolla – remaining true to the Corolla philosophy of Quality, Durability and Reliability. The cabin is wonderfully quiet, thanks to the additional sound deadening that has been integrated as part of the mid-cycle update.

More than a pretty face

The changes are not only superficial and centered around the appearances. Toyota has revised the shock absorber mounts and rear suspension bushes and fitted larger diameter shock absorbers all ‘round. The result is a more compliant ride with sharper turn in and sure-footed stability at higher speeds.

One wouldn’t think that changes that small would be felt, but Toyota certainly has done their homework and there is a marked improvement in the ride quality.

In a bid to improve the safety as well as the look and drive, Toyota has made VSC (Vehicle Stability Control) and HAC (Hill Assist Control) standard on 1.6-litre models and higher.

The more they change, the more they stay the same.

The engine lineup remains largely unchanged with your choice of 1.3-litre Dual VVT-I, 1.6-litre Dual VVT-I and 1.8-litre Dual VVT-I petrol engines and a singular diesel option in the form of the 1.4-litre D-4D diesel.

1.6- and 1.8-litre models offer the choice of either a six-speed manual or a revised CVT Multidrive S automatic gearbox.

The three trim levels also remain with a choice of entry-level Esteem, mid-spec Prestige and high-end Exclusive on the 1.8-litre models.

I particularly liked the idea of the 1.4-litre diesel. It’s a great little motor with more than enough grunt to get you up a hill, and frugal enough to keep you happy at the pumps. It’s the sensible choice for those that are not too fussed with outright speed or performance.

For the drivers looking for a little more engagement, the 1.8-litre is still a gem. 103kW and 173Nm makes the Corolla sprightly and enjoyable to drive on virtually any road, in any condition. It certainly feels like the grown up choice when combined with the new tweaks to the chassis.

While the Corolla may be placing itself in the C-Segment sedan class up against the likes of the Elantra, Focus, Cruze and Jetta, it drives like a considerably larger and more expensive car. There’s fantastic value to be had with the new Corolla, a car that seems to be aging like a fine brandy, a robust, classic wine.

All new Toyota Corrollas come standard with a 5-year / 90 000km Service Plan and 3-year / 100 000km warranty.

Pricing:

1.3 Esteem:	R261 300
1.3 Prestige:	R281 300
1.6 Esteem:	R280 200
1.6 Prestige:	R299 900
1.6 Prestige AT:	R314 000
1.4 D-4D Esteem:	R294 400
1.4 D-4D Prestige:	R307 500
1.8 Prestige:	R313 500
1.8 Exclusive:	R336 300
1.8 Exclusive AT:	R349 400