It certainly is a strange time to be alive. The world has been turned on its head by the outbreak of the highly-contagious COVID-19 virus and has us all looking at different ways of doing things. As such, we've not had a chance to sample the new, 12th generation Toyota Corolla and our chances of doing so have been dashed, momentarily. But that won't stop us from bringing you the low-down on what we have to look forward to when everything returns to some semblance of normality.
Related: Toyota Corolla Hatch: Dynamite in a downsized package
Bold new design
Unmistakeable. One word that you could quite comfortably use to describe the all-new Toyota Corolla. While it echoes the new design language that Toyota is employing in their new models, it still stands out from the Corolla hatchback that it shares its front-end design with.
The new platform allows greater design freedom and Toyota has used this to give the new Corolla a lower stance with improved visibility, thanks to thinner A-pillars, a lower dashboard and a lower trailing edge to the bonnet. The overhangs are also shorter than before, creating a sportier look for a car that has been dubbed 'boring' for too long.
The rear of the new Corolla features bi-colour taillights and smooth, rounded lines. Unfortunately, it lacks the same sort of appeal that the front offers with the back half reminding us of some earlier Korean designs.
Two grades are on offer with the new Corolla, the XS and XR model trim. The XR is fitted with 16-inch alloy wheels while the XR gets a beefy set of 18-inch wheels, replete with 225/40R18 tyres.
Reworked interior
While the exterior is unmistakable, the interior cribs from the Corolla hatch and employs the same design and layout. A long, wide dashboard includes horizontal elements to increase the perception of space with neat lines that tie into the door cards rather well. It's not as well-executed as that of the CH-R, but it is pleasing nevertheless.
The infotainment screen takes centre stage though and this 8-inch, floating, touchscreen unit includes Toyota Connect, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Audio is played through a 6-speaker sound system.
XR models see the fitment of a 7-inch driver info display unit in the gauge binnacle with a digital speedometer while the XS models receive a smaller 4.2-inch system.
The front seats have also been redesigned and now feature a stylish ribbed-design upholstery. It is now trimmed with a new synthetic fabric called Rezatec, that offers the look and feel of leather while remaining sustainable.
Improved ride
While we haven't had a chance to sample it for ourselves, we're keen to see how the ride has improved. Toyota claims that the redesigned suspension geometry improves ride handling and comfort, in part thanks to the redesign and the new damper rates employed.
Many owners of the previous generation had concerns around the high NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) levels in the 11th gen Corolla and Toyota has listened and increased the amount of sound deadening used to counter this concern. Additional foam insulation and seal sealing further aides in the absorption of unwanted noise but all without affecting the overall weight.
In fact, the new Corolla is lighter than the previous model thanks in part to the high-tensile materials and new construction process that sees a 60% increase in body shell rigidity, allowing them to use less material in the construction.
Engine options
Two engines are available and two trims with a total of three models available on launch.
The lineup starts with the 1.8-litre XS model with a '7-speed' Shiftmatic CVT gearbox. This is the same engine as used in the 11th generation Corolla and produces 103 kW and 171 Nm torque. This is followed by the new 2.0-litre 'Dynamic-Force' TNGA engine that was first seen in the new Rav4. Available with a 6-speed manual and '10-speed' Shiftmatic CVT, the new 2.0-litre offering will give you 125 kW and 200 Nm torque, all while returning a claimed 6.5 l/100km for the manual and 6.0 l/100km for the CVT.
The 1.8 returns a claimed 6.2 l/100km.
Pricing
Pricing remains competitive in this segment of the market and the new Corolla seems to present good value for money.
Toyota Corolla 1.8 XS CVT – R372 700
Toyota Corolla 2.0 XR 6MT – R412 300
Toyota Corolla 2.0 XR CVT – R425 200
All models are covered by a 3-year / 100 000 km warranty and backed by a 6-year / 90 000 km service plan.
Recommended next:
Toyota unveils new MyToyota app and Toyota Connect technology
New vs 2019 Toyota Corolla hatch: what are the top 4 differences?
2020 Toyota Corolla Quest: It’s all-new, except that it’s not really...
