Toyota Corolla is out to thrill

Toyota Corolla is out to thrill

The new generation of Corolla sedans may just be the proof we all need to confirm that Toyota has brought sexy back to a range that was fast becoming the car maker’s version of grandpa’s shoes: a reliable car to get from point A to B with a dependable fuel economy, easy to fix up but won’t get you any game with the in crowd.

Car watchers around the world all agree that the small-car market that the Corolla plays in, has evolved rapidly in recent years. The space is now confronted with much more competitive choices. Cars are required to have great seductive looks, loads of in-car technology and sharper handling to win car lovers’ hearts. So Toyota had to step up to the game with the Corolla range, and they did. The new range spots a sexier styling design approach and more exciting features. It’s much more athletic, like it hasn’t been since the 16 valve of the early 1990s.

Because Toyota has historically produced the Corolla alongside its twin make, the Sprinter, it made sense to test drove both.  Both cars turned out impressive in varying degrees. Though, the later had a slight edge over the former. The Sprinter is the model drivers should go for if throttle pleasure is their motivation. It might prove to be the car that changes the rule that Corolla isn’t for driving enthusiasts. The new model has a suspension tune that’s noticeably more buttoned-down than the others in the range. It feels strong with a liquid-like flow. This contrasts well with other models which remain more supple and cushioned. The Sprinter also felt noticeably great at the north of 90km/h. This is thanks to the sport button that sharpens throttle response and firms up the steering.

Though corolla is geared for people who are just settling down, hence looking for a type of sedan suited for a growing family. This may explain the slight expansions in size. The new range spots about 7 centimetres extra length compared to its predecessor, with nearly 10 centimetres of additional wheelbase. This puts the wheels farther out to the corners and makes for much sportier look on the parking bay. It’s just cooler to look at, especially with the LED headlamps and running lamps.

Those who choose their cars for based optimum fuel efficiency will want the LE Eco trim. It features the Valvematic system with a broader valve timing which increases fuel economy and engine output by more than 5% to horsepower. The safety freak can count on the eight standard airbags, Toyota’s Star Safety system. This includes anti-lock braking system, stability control, traction control, electronic brake-force distribution, and brake-assists. These come married to the car maker’s standard Smart Stop Technology brake-override system. The Corolla range comes in four basic offerings. These are the L, LE, S, and a new LE Eco model. The base L model comes with standard LED low-beam headlights with LED daytime running lights, in-glass AM/FM antenna. They’ve thrown in a split fold-down rear seat, power locks, doors, and mirrors, along with air conditioning, Bluetooth, and eight airbags. Some of the high-end models come with added options like a smart key system with push button start, automatic climate control, leather-trimmed tilt and telescopic three-spoke steering wheel with paddle shifters and audio controls, multi-information display and a Bluetooth hands-free phone voice-command controls. They along with the SofTex-trimmed heated front seats go a logway to make just sitting in there a luxurious affair. It may not hold much threat to German sedans in the market out there, however the new generations of Corolla holds a promise to thrill.

Percy Mabandu