Toyota has launched the new Toyota Corolla and it arrives with an entry level price of €20,995 for the 1.33 petrol in Terra trim, and €1,000 more for the 1.4D-4D (diesel ), also in Terra grade.
The long anticipated wait for the arrival of the 11th generation of the world’s best-selling car, the Toyota Corolla is over. With in excess of 40 million Corollas sold worldwide, 200,000 of which were in Ireland, this model comes with some heritage to live up to.
The new version inherits 47 years of Corolla DNA, building on the model’s legendary quality, durability and reliability. In addition, it comes with an advanced and more contemporary design, as well as improved roominess.
A short drive at the Irish launch last week left me with the driving feel of a bigger car, with improved driving dynamics. It seems to have an improved ergonomic driving position. Toyota also points out that drivers will benefit from intuitive operability of all switchgear and instrumentation.
The new Corolla delivers better ride comfort and more comfortable seats, with a host of practicality and user-friendliness, as well as enhanced safety features. And Toyota claims it offers unrivalled fuel economy.
The Corolla’s new exterior embodies the evolution of Toyota’s titled 'keen look' and 'under priority' design principles with an emphasis now placed on the upper grille for a distinctive but more prestigious appearance.
The new Toyota is 80mm longer and 15mm wider, yet 5mm lower than its predecessor. Highlighting the 100mm longer wheel base and reduced overall height, the design combines clean lines and balanced proportions to give the new Corolla a more sophisticated and contemporary look.
The interior design combines clean, elegant, uncluttered styling with trim and detailing to reinforce the spaciousness of the new Corolla’s roomier, more comfortable interior.
The soft instrument panel upholstery and what Toyota calls a high-gloss piano black finishes are complemented by silver trim detailing and clear blue instrument, glove box and ambient cabin lighting to create a more premium quality feel to the interior.
Rear passengers get increased rear legroom, which Toyota says is class-leading. The Corolla also features increased luggage capacity.
Toyota claims the new Corolla is quieter than its predecessor, and the interior has been designed to offer customers class-leading quietness.
Commenting on the launch, David Shannon, managing director of Toyota Ireland, told the Advertiser: “We are very excited about the potential this next generation Corolla holds for Toyota Ireland. Irish motorists have had a loyal love affair with Corolla since it was introduced 40 years ago, and to this day it remains a household name. We expect the new model with its highly desirable design, driving experience and interior comfort to convert a new generation of Irish motorists to the Corolla marque.”
