When the new-look, sporty Toyota Corolla launched last year, the Toyota Corolla Quest became the lucky recipient of the previous Corolla's sleek body shape and modern convenience features. It also received a welcome power boost to work alongside a more efficient CVT gearbox. And just like that, the new Corolla Quest got a whole lot more desirable - whether you're a sensible parent or just someone who does plenty of long-distance travelling with a boot full of luggage.
Related: Top 5 things you need to know about the 2020 Toyota Corolla Quest
Space
The new Corolla Quest is not short on space. Second row occupants have plenty of legroom as well as elbowroom, and the middle rear passenger won't feel at all cramped. Up front, extra-large people won't have any need to complain either, as the seats are wide enough and very supportive. (Cloth seats are standard on the 1.8, partial leather in the Prestige models, and full leather is part of the deal if you buy am Exclusive model.) The boot is a capacious 452 litres, while there are large door cards and plenty of storage binnacles for everyone's stuff. And yes, that large pram will fit into the boot, as well as the shopping bags from your weekly grocery-shopping trip.
The fitment of the child seats is quick and easy as the doors open widely, but since it's a sedan, you will need to bend your back more than you would have to in an SUV, of course. There are ISOFIX anchorage points on the outer rear seats.
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Power and fuel efficiency
The new 1.8-litre engine has an output of 103kW with 173Nm of torque and is well-mated to the CVT gearbox, which is meant to help you conserve fuel. The CVT 'box sounds a little noisy when you put your foot down to overtake a slower vehicle, but quite honestly I'd rather have the lower fuel bill than the quiet transmission. Fuel consumption in town came to a budget-friendly 7.9 litres per 100 km - not bad when the 100km/h mark is reached in just over 10 seconds.
Related: 2020 Toyota Corolla Quest review
Comfort and convenience
The previous-generation Toyota Fortuner/Corolla's touchscreen infotainment system is carried over to the Quest (Executive models) and while it may not be the easiest to operate, it gets the job done without much hassle. Entry-level models don't have the touchscreen, but are Bluetooth-enabled with USB/AUX ports and a 12V power socket. Electric windows, electrically adjustable side mirrors and daytime running lamps are standard across the board. All models have steering wheel buttons to keep your attention and your eyes where they belong, and a trip computer (all models) keeps you in the know with regards to fuel usage, outside temperature, range, and so forth.
Safety
The Corolla Quest inherited most of the previous Corolla's safety features as well. Entry-level models have three airbags while the rest of the models in the lineup have 5 each, but all models have ABS, EBD and traction/stability control, headlight levelling, hill-start assist, emergency brake lights, child locks, and remote central locking.
Prestige and Executive variants have a rearview camera as well, while the Executive model comes with a proximity sensor (it unlocks the door when you pull the handle if you have the key in your pocket/handbag) as well as a starter button. Just don't misplace your keys, as it's easy to do when they don't need to be in the ignition.
Ride quality
The Corolla Quest has a certain magic carpet ride quality without ever feeling wallowy. Steering is quite direct and suspension is soft, but the Quest never feels anything but surefooted.
Verdict
As your day-to-day family car, the Corolla Quest is incredibly difficult to fault, as it's just so effortless to live with. Sure, you'll find some hard plastics if you go looking for it, but as a whole, the Quest can't be beaten for everyday family value.
The fact that the Corolla Quest is produced right here on South African soil also means you'll never want for parts. It's one of the reasons that the Quest is so affordable.
Pricing (*correct as per October 2020)
- Toyota Corolla Quest 1.8, R265 200
- Toyota Corolla Quest 1.8 CVT, R284 200
- Toyota Corolla Quest 1.8 Prestige, R301 200
- Toyota Corolla Quest 1.8 Prestige CVT, R312 000
- Toyota Corolla Quest 1.8 Exclusive, R323 100
- Toyota Corolla Quest 1.8 Exclusive CVT, R333 900.
*Please note that prices may increase without prior notice. Please visit the Toyota Corolla Quest microsite to stay up to date with the latest prices.
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