Toyota Corolla: still dominating
Last week saw the local launch of the new Toyota Corolla in Cape Town. Now, we know, Corolla has not exactly been an exciting car, but it has still dominated South Africa’s compact-sedan segment for as long as we can remember. This is Toyota’s 11th generation Corolla and we have no doubt that it will continue to sell like cosmopolitans at a cocktail bar.
The Corolla’s design is what may have given it a bit of a dull factor in the past, however, things have changed! The new grill which runs in to the headlights gives it a broader stance and a more dynamic look. It’s just a lot more striking and we think far more stylish than before.
The interior is simple and uncluttered which adds to the spacious feeling of the cabin; there is ample rear leg and headroom. There are four different trim levels, namely Esteem, Prestige, Sprinter and Exclusive. On the prestige model, which was one of the trim levels we got to experience at the launch, you can expect airconditioning, leather seats, a multifunction steering wheel and a LCD touch screen with a rear view camera.
When it comes to the engine line up, you can expect four choices, which includes three petrol options. But the one that got us excited is the 1,4 D-4D turbodiesel. This is a first for the Corolla line up and in fact the only diesel on offer. It doesn’t exactly sprint off the line but the 205 N.m ensures you can overtake and cruise with ease. It is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. A massive draw card will be the claimed fuel consumption of just 4,5 l/100km. Who needs to worry about fuel increases with that consumption?
At R249 900, the 1,4D prestige is great value for money. Along with all the models in the line up, it comes with a five year/90 000 km service plan and a three year/100 000 km warranty as standard. If you consider the spec, space and economy on offer, it really is a great buy.