Toyota New Zealand has released the first details of the new Corolla set to arrive later this year.
Toyota say the new hatch is the most technologically advanced small car the company has ever built and sports a more muscular and sophisticated look. The twelfth generation Corolla is also lower, wider and longer than the current model.
Underpinned by a new engine, transmissions, chassis and suspension, Toyota are promising the new Corolla will reward drivers with an involving experience behind the wheel.
“The humble Corolla is no more. This new Corolla has soul, character and personality” said Toyota New Zealand’s GM of Product and New Vehicle Sales, Neeraj Lala.
“New Zealand’s car of the decade has easily received its biggest upgrade, with a sharp new design that looks amazing and feels fantastic when you drive it. It’s the most agile and best handling Corolla we’ve seen.”
The Corolla's new 2.0-litre petrol engine has 21 per cent more power and 15 per cent more torque yet is more economical then the outgoing 1.8-lire engine.
The engine will be available with an all-new CVT gearbox with 10 programmed shifts and includes the world's first 'launch gear' in a passenger vehicle CVT, which Toyota says will result in 'powerful and predictable acceleration.'
A petrol hybrid electric powertrain will also be available in two variants, instead of just one as it is currently.
“There is a range of class leading technology, safety equipment and exceptional comfort,” said Mr Lala.
An upgraded Toyota Safety Sense package has improved levels of pedestrian and cyclist protection, as well as lane tracing assist and road sign assist.
“This car is stacked with excitement and I’m confident it will attract new customers, just like the new Camry,” said Mr Lala.
Full details of the new Corolla range will be announced closer to the model's local launch in late 2018.
The Toyota Corolla is New Zealand best selling passenger vehicle, with 1671 Corolla registered by the end of April, 2018.
Last year, 7797 new Corollas were registered in New Zealand, 706 of which were rental vehicles.
