The Corolla is the bedrock upon which Toyota built its business that became the world’s number one automotive manufacturer.
Last year was an all-time Australian sales record for Corolla – 47,792 were sold making it easily our most popular small car.
The current model line-up, the tenth generation, was launched in May 2007 and has all the traditional Corolla ingredients – contemporary styling, good performance and fuel economy, lots of features and undoubted value-for-money.
Corolla’s is now available in hatch or sedan derivatives with a total of 13 model variants. The engine is Toyota’s 1.8-litre which delivers 100kW of power and 175Nm of torque – Australian customers were one of the first to get this new engine. Drive is to the front wheels via either six-speed manual gearbox or 4-speed automatic. Six-speed manuals provide a wider spread of power for zippy acceleration and enhanced fuel economy.
Safety is a Corolla strong point. Ascent and Levin SX models have twin airbags as standard and you can opt for a safety pack (extra $750) delivering front-seat side airbags, curtain shield airbags and a drivers’ side knee airbag which reduces impacts with the dashboard in a collision. Conquest, Levin ZR and Ultima models get the full airbag package as standard.
Standard are ABS anti-lock brakes with Brake Assist and Electronic Brakeforce distribution – the latest technology to maximise stopping performance.
Corolla’s all-new looks present more than a modern appearance – the bodyshape provides a flat rear floor for extra space while bolt-on structures for the extremities ensure easy repair after minor bumps.
The extra interior space is noticeable – the sedan boot capacity is 450 litres or within 10 per cent of Commodore boot.
Pedestrian safety has become a real focus for the world’s car-makers and the new Corolla presents strong credentials. Many front-end items including the bumper, radiator, bonnet and even the wipers have been designed to minimise injuries should you hit a pedestrian.
