Fresh details about the engine powering the all-new Toyota Corolla hatch have been confirmed ahead of the models launch in September.
A new 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine will power three petrol models - GX, SX and ZR - while a new Corolla Hybrid will feature the latest powertrain from the new Prius.
Along with the new engine the 12th generation Corolla will also feature a new transmissions, chassis, and suspension, which Toyota say will make the upcoming model "the most fun to drive Corolla in the past two decades.”
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“This new 12th generation Corolla shares the same dynamic platform as the C-HR with technology inspiration from the class leading Prius and a strong European design influence,” said Toyota New Zealand’s GM of New Vehicles and Product, Neeraj Lala.
“This car is more than just an evolution of the Corolla we know, and with more power and a specially developed transmission for the petrol variants, it is the most fun to drive Corolla in the past two decades.”
The 2.0-litre Dynamic-Force direct-injection petrol engine adopts the latest in Toyota technology for gains in power, fuel efficiency, and cleaner emissions. The 2.0 litre petrol engine has 21 per cent more power and 15 per cent more torque, while fuel economy has improved by 0.1 litres to 6.0 litres per 100kms.
The engine is smaller and lighter than the 1.8-litre unit it replaces which helps to lower its centre of gravity and benefits its overall balance.
Toyota New Zealand won't confirm any specific output details at this stage, but the claimed performance improvements indicate the new 2.0-litre engine will produce around 125kW of power and almost 200Nm of torque.
The engine will be mated to a CVT gearbox with a launch gear for improved efficiency in lower gear ratios. The transmission utilises gear drive when starting from a full stop, that's said to resulting in better acceleration and eliminate the sluggish feeling that plagues CVTs.
The SX and ZR petrol variants add paddle shifters while all petrol variants can access a 10-speed sequential shift. While manual models have been confirmed for other markets, New Zealand isn't in one of them, at least at this stage.
A Toyota Corolla Hybrid model will also arrive in New Zealand equipped with the latest self-charging petrol electric hybrid powertrain from the Prius. The 1.8 litre petrol engine has a combined output of 90kWs, with a combined fuel consumption of 4.2 litres per 100 kms. Improving on previous model, the Hybrid Corolla will run on 91 octane.
“The upgraded Hybrid Synergy Drive system in the Corolla complements the car’s new found dynamic capability while providing the optimal balance between fuel economy, low emissions and performance.” says Mr. Lala.
The all new Corolla will be built on the same same TNGA platform as C-HR and Prius, featuring a lower centre of gravity, trailing wishbone independentrear suspension and a more rigid body shell.
“The new Corolla provides the cleanest interpretation yet of Toyota’s design inspiration and builds on the C-HR and Camry in terms of exterior design,” said Lala.
“The stylish headlights provide European flair and the lower bonnet enhances the sleek look.”
The chassis is clothed in a body that is lower, wider and longer than the current model with a more athletic and muscular styling.
New LED headlights wrapping around into the front guards, while the rear design is more rounded with a roof-mounted spoiler.
Look out on Driven.co.nz for our full Toyota Corolla launch report in September
