Just think, the Toyota Corolla has been in production for over half a century. During this time, it has sold over 46 million units worldwide, managed to get into the Guinness Book of Records and become the most popular car in the world. The current generation of the Corolla is already the twelfth. “Yuzhny Avtomobil” went to the coast of the Sea of Azov to get a better look at the new model.
Since the Corolla model is considered a global model, it is built on the same platform. It is based on the already familiar TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) platform, which was first used in the new Prius, then in the C-HR, and now on the new Corolla. In the future, the new generation RAV4 will also receive it. An incredible coincidence with the previous generation of Corolla is an absolutely identical wheelbase of 2700 mm. Cars supplied to Russia are assembled in Turkey; there are no plans to launch the Corolla into Russian production at this time. Unfortunately, local production could significantly lower the price tag for Russian buyers and completely outshine its competitors. There’s also a lack of body style diversity. While the new Corolla is available in hatchback and wagon body styles in Europe, it’s sold exclusively as a sedan here, and has long been labeled the “small Camry.” By the way, the price of the top-of-the-line Corolla is already very close to the base Camry. What’s new in the new Corolla and what goodies does it have in store for us?
What’s new?
The main change is the completely new suspension – in front there is a MacPherson, as before, but in the rear the beam has been replaced with a multi-link, the center has become 10 mm lower, which accordingly gives the new Corolla more precise handling. The new sedan is 10 mm longer than its predecessor and 5 mm wider, while the wheelbase, as mentioned earlier, remains unchanged. At the same time, the new Corolla is now more composed, body rigidity has increased compared to its predecessor by 60%. The change in platform made it possible to implement a number of new technical and design solutions aimed at improving the body aerodynamics, improving handling and operational safety. The front bumper has complex, textured shapes, and arrow-shaped LED headlights effectively create an innovative image of the model. The car’s appearance has become more faceted in the style of the latest innovations from the Toyota brand.
Engine and transmission
Although the new Toyota Corolla sedan is supplied to the Russian market in as many as five trim levels, as before, there is only one engine – a naturally aspirated gasoline engine with a displacement of 1.6 liters and a power of 122 horsepower. This time-tested engine is easy to maintain and generally quite reliable. There are no other engine options for the Corolla on the Russian market, and most likely there will not be. As for the transmission, as in the previous generation, it is either a six-speed manual or a CVT with imitation gear shifting. With this combination, the car certainly does not shoot off from the traffic lights, just like its predecessor. The Corolla excels at a measured, smooth ride without aggressive lane changes or sharp corners.
While the power is sufficient for city driving and highway driving, those who enjoy active, dynamic driving will find the Corolla a bit dull. For those considering the Corolla as a daily driver or for a small family, the engine’s power and dynamics will be more than sufficient. Good fuel economy is a plus. The well-tuned CVT skillfully simulates gear changes during smooth and moderate acceleration. The engine, in turn, responds linearly to accelerator input, which makes traction control transparent and allows the car to quickly accelerate within city speeds. On country roads, of course, overtaking trucks requires a certain amount of reserve, but when driving calmly, the Corolla feels harmonious and docile.
Inside
The interior has been transformed, but there are no significant changes. The multimedia system screen has moved from the center of the center console to the very top, reminiscent of a compact TV that has been plugged directly into the parpris. Touch buttons on either side of the multimedia screen have now been replaced by analog buttons that can be pressed, and a volume knob has been added. Using the multimedia system has become more convenient, and you no longer have to look down to select the desired menu or operation. The multimedia system graphics are simple and clear, without complex sections and submenus. The cabin itself now features more soft-touch materials and high-quality soft-touch plastic, at least on the visible part of the instrument panel. The mirror control unit has moved from under the driver’s left knee to the door armrest, which has also become easier to use. The coin tray next to the steering wheel has been removed; it wasn’t really needed anyway. Top-of-the-line Corolla trims include a head-up display, wireless phone charging, lane-keeping assist, and cruise control. Overall, the car feels practical, logically organized, and ergonomically well-designed.
Toyota’s simplicity, convenience, practicality, and reliability are precisely why everyone loves it. Starting with the Comfort trim, the Corolla features separate climate control; you can set the desired temperature using rotary knobs instead of the previous rocker buttons. Getting into the car feels a little different now, thanks to the seats being lowered 23 mm, but it doesn’t feel like you’re sitting on the floor. The new driver’s seat now features new padding, making it more comfortable to get in. The seat recline handle is still there, and as before, it’s used to secure the seat belt when getting in and out. Front passengers have two-level seat heating, and top-of-the-line trims offer this feature for rear passengers as well. The steering wheel’s controls are identical to those of its bigger sister, the Camry. It, too, can be heated, but not all the way around, only in the grip zone. The Prestige Safety trim adds a host of other electronic assistance systems, including active cruise control, automatic high-beam assist, driver fatigue monitoring, and road sign recognition. European trims also feature blind-spot monitoring. In terms of features and equipment, the top-of-the-line Corolla truly is turning into a “Little Camry,” and the comparison is quite appropriate.
Since sedans are popular in Russia, the Corolla’s trunk will appeal to most of our compatriots. Its volume has now increased to 470 liters. The rear seat backrests can be folded down for transporting long items, but this will not create a flat floor. The Corolla is equipped with a full-size spare tire specifically for Russia.
Prices and trim levels
The new Corolla is available to buyers in 5 trim levels and 9 colors to choose from. The entry-level Toyota Corolla comes equipped with six airbags, stability control, traction control, and hill start assist. Buyers of the new top-of-the-line model will have access to such unique options for the segment as a 10-inch head-up display, a 7-inch color 3D screen on the instrument panel, and the Toyota Safety Sense active safety system package. The standard trim starts at 1,173,000 rubles, while the most expensive Prestige Safety trim, with all the necessary features and 17-inch wheels, starts at 1,700,000 rubles. That’s 31,000 rubles cheaper than the mid-range Camry with a two-liter engine. However, many buyers are now faced with a dilemma: should they choose a less-equipped Camry or a top-of-the-line Corolla? But this question is an individual matter for everyone.
Toyota Center Rostov-on-Don West
Rostov-on-Don,
Malinovsky St., 43,
tel.: +7 (863) 211-32-11
