Toyota`s Corolla has always been one of South Africa`s all time favourite compact sedans, topping the monthly sales charts on a consistent basis - even though it’s styling has been staid in comparison to some rivals.

But the latest Corolla, with its modern styling, has changed perceptions in the past few months – with the longer, wider and taller ninth generation Corolla proving to be one of the leaders of a trend that has seen compact cars growing in size and specification level.

The Toyota Corolla GSX is powered by a slightly toned-down version of the engine used in the MR2 Roadster, offering performance that feels positively perky, responsive and eager to please.

Toyota`s 1.8-litre four packs some significant technology, like 40 degrees of infinitely variable inlet camshaft timing, which changes the intake valve timing according to engine speed and acts to increase torque in the low- to mid-engine speed ranges.

This enhances performance and driveability, improves fuel efficiency and assists in producing cleaner exhaust emissions. – while providing for a maximum power output of 100 kW at 6 000 r/min and 171 Nm of torque at 4 200 r/min. Despite its power and performance, however, the unit also returns very favourable fuel economy figures.

The engine is quite refined, but it does grow increasingly vocal through the upper half of the rev range. It’s not really a problem though, except for the shortish fifth gear which, at motorway cruise speed, creates inescapable engine noise which gets somewhat tiresome.

Ratios apart, however, the Corolla five-speeder is a fine transmission, if a little clunky, offering efficient and effective shifting.

So, while all is well under the bonnet, inside the Corolla it`s a different story.

Despite a well shaped and supportive seat, and impeccable pedal placement, the driving position is poor. The Corolla has only angle adjustment, with no allowance for steering rake and reach alteration. On the other hand, instruments, centre console, steering column wands, and other minor controls are excellent.

The layout of the dash is simple and ergonomics are good with all controls within easy reach of the driver. Compared to the previous generation Corolla there is a big improvement in overall interior quality. The plastics used for the dashboard and side panels are of good quality and appear durable. As with most modern cars the Corolla has plenty of stowage places in the centre console, between the front seats and on the right-hand side of the steering wheel, while there’s also a spacious cubby.

Standard features include power steering, air-conditioning, electric windows and rear-view mirrors, fog lights, front-loading CD/radio with six speakers, remote central locking, alarm and transponder immobilizer, driver and passenger airbags and ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution.

Passengers, both front and rear, will enjoy the Corolla - although the front seats are not the most comfortable and supportive. Foot room for rear-seat passengers is somewhat restrictive, and there are no door grips.

Adequacy is also the key word when it comes to the Toyota`s dynamics. Ride comfort is okay, noticeably better when loaded than with only the driver aboard, while handling is acceptable up to a point - once past it the Corolla`s chassis turns incoherent.

However, it grows ragged when pushed within the vicinity of its limit of grip. It has traction trouble accelerating out of tighter corners - and its power advantage isn`t sufficient excuse for such behaviour. Its steering is also prone to kickback, sending shudders up the steering column – especially when encountering mid-corner potholes and ripples.

ABS-assisted brakes (with EBD) provide for top stopping power, with 255 mm ventilated discs in front and 258 mm solid discs at the rear assisting in this department.

So, with the new Toyota Corolla now offering literally more of everything, more size, more features, and a lot more finesse, we think it`s safe to say that Toyota`s great little car is all grown up – and like other Toyotas, the Corolla will retain its value well.

Specifications

Description Cor olla 180i GSX
Body type: 4-door sedan
Engine capacity: 1.8-litre
Fuel: Petrol

Engine and transmission
Engine type: 1ZZ-FE
Configuration: 4 in-line
Max. power (kW @ r/min) 100 @ 6 000
Max. torque (Nm @ r/min) 171 @ 4 200
Valve mechanism: DOHC, VVT-i
Valves per cylinder: 4
Bore x stroke (mm): 79.0 x 91.5
Displacement (cm3): 1 794
Compression ratio: 10:1
Maximum permissable r/min: 6 400
Engine block: Alloy
Cylinder head: Alloy
Manifold layout: Cross flow
Fuel supply: Multipoint electronic fuel injection
Minimum fuel requirement, petrol (RON, sea level): 95
Minimum fuel requirement, petrol (RON, high altitude): 93
Minimum fuel requirement: unleaded fuel only
Ignition: Toyota Direct Ignition System (TDIS)
Knock sensors: 1
Emission control: Catalytic converter
Transmission configuration: 5-speed manual
Gear ratios: 1st 3.166
Gear ratios: 2nd 1.904
Gear ratios: 3rd 1.31
Gear ratios: 4th 0.969
Gear ratios: 5th 0.815
Gear ratios: Reverse 3.25
Gear ratios: Final drive 4.312:1
Clutch diameter (mm): 212
Driven wheels: Front
Service intervals (km): 15 000
ToyotaCare Service Plan: 5 years / 90 000km

Wheels and tyres
Wheel type: Alloy
Wheel size: 6JJ x 15
Tyre size: 195/60R15 - 88V

Brakes
Front: Ventilated discs, 255mm
Rear: Discs, 258mm
Anti-lock braking system (ABS): Standard
Electronic brake force distribution (EBD): Standard

Suspension
Front: MacPherson struts, stabiliser bar, nitrogen and oil filled dampers
Rear: Torsion beam, stabiliser bar, nitrogen and oil filled dampers

Steering
Type: Rack & pinion
Power assistance: Engine speed sensitive
Turns, lock to lock: 3.5
Turning circle (body, m): 10.2

Performance (Data by Toyota SA)
Top speed (km/h): 203
Acceleration: 0-100km/h (s): 9.44
Fuel consumption: 100km/h (l/100km): 7.02

Dimensions, capacities, weights and clearances
Length (mm): 4365
Width (mm): 1695
Height (mm): 1470
Wheelbase (mm): 2600
Front track (mm): 1480
Rear track (mm): 1460
Seats: Adults 5
Luggage compartment (VDA, dm3): 437
Luggage compartment (ISO, dm3): 360
Fuel tank (litre): 60
Vehicle weight (Tare, kg): 1 140
Gross vehicle mass (GVM, kg): 1 630
Gross combination mass (GCM, kg): 3 160
Towing capacity (kg): Unbraked trailer: 570
Towing capacity (kg): Trailer with overrun brake: 1 140
Towing capacity (kg): Trailer with service brake: 1 300

Body and styling
Configuration: 4-door sedan
Bumpers: Body colour
Grille: Black, chrome trim
Exterior mirror housings: Body colour
Door handles: Body colour
Boot handle: Body colour
Side protection mouldings: Body colour
Front spoiler: Standard
Air deflectors in front of wheels: Front & rear
Wheel finish: Alloy
Spare wheel: In boot (full size)
Exhaust system: Stainless steel
Towbar wiring connection point: Standard

Interior, comfort and convenience
Seats: 5
Power steering: Engine speed sensitive
Ventilation: Fan assistance 4-speed
Ventilation: Air conditioning Standard
Ventilation: Recirculate function Standard
Electrically adjustable windows: Front & rear
Electric windows one-touch feature: Driver`s one-touch up and down with pinch protection
Exterior mirrors: Electrically adjustable Standard
Exterior mirrors: Curved to minimise blind spots Standard
Dimming interior rear view mirror: Standard
Height adjustable steering wheel: Standard
Remote boot opener: Standard
Remote boot opener disabler: Standard
Remote fuel flap opener: Standard
Windscreen wipers: Speeds 2
Windscreen wipers: Single wipe action Standard
Windscreen wipers: Variable intermittent Standard
Tinted windscreen: Standard, with shade band
Tinted side and rear windows: Standard
Driver’s left foot rest: Standard
Cup holders: Front (2)
Cigarette lighter: Standard
Instrumentation: Type Analogue, white dials
Instrumentation: Speedometer marked to (km/h): 240
Instrumentation: Tachometer Standard
Instrumentation: Fuel guage Standard
Instrumentation: Water temperature guage Standard
Instrumentation: Trip meter Dual meters
Instrumentation: Illumination rheostat Standard
Instrumentation: Clock Digital
Instrumentation: Outside temperature gauge Standard
Instrumentation: Multi-function trip computer Average speed, trip fuel consumption, instantaneous fuel consumption
Headlamp-on warning buzzer: Standard
Centre console bin: With lid
Seat back pockets: Driver & passenger
Courtesy lamps: Dome lamp with time delay
Courtesy lamps: Map reading lamp 2, front
Courtesy lamps: Luggage compartment Standard
Woodgrain finish dash trim: Standard
Chrome accent trim: Standard
Radio tuner: Fully integrated type
RDS: Standard
CD player: Front-loading
Speakers: 6
Antenna mounting: A-pillar
Seat configuration (1st/2nd/3rd row): 2/3
Leather seat facings: Standard
Driver’s seat: Fore/aft adjustable Standard
Driver’s seat: Reclining Standard
Driver’s seat: Height adjustable Standard
Second row seat adjustments: Seat back 60:40 split and fold
Steering wheel cover: Leather
Gear lever knob: Wood & leather
Available trim colours: Ivory
Floor cover: Needle-punch carpet
Boot lid inner trim panel: Standard
Bonnet silencer panel: Standard

Safety
Passenger safety cell: Standard
Door impact beams: Standard
Collapsible steering column: Standard
Fold-away brake pedal: Standard
Driver’s front airbag: Standard
Passenger front airbag: Standard
Head impact protection trim: Standard
Safety belts: Front seats 2x3-point, height adjustable, pretensioners & force limiters
Safety belts: Second row 2x3-point, 1x lap belt
Head restraints: Front 2, height adjustable
Head restraints: Rear 3, height adjustable
Whiplash injury lessening front seat design (WIL): Standard
Halogen headlamps: Multi-reflector type
Separate high beam driving lamps: Standard
Front fog lights: Standard
High mounted 3rd brake light: Standard
ABS (Anti-lock braking system): Standard
EBD (Electronic brake force distribution): Standard
Rear window demister: Standard
Child locks on rear doors: Standard
Electric windows with pinch protection: Driver`s window
Exterior rear view mirrors curved to prevent blind spots: Standard
Fuel cut-off system activated by airbag sensors: Standard

Security
Immobiliser: Transponder key
Alarm: Standard
Remote control: Standard
Central locking: Standard
Selective remote unlock feature: Standard
Lockable glove box: Standard

Warranty
Vehicle warranty: 3 year / 100 000 km
Corrosion perforation warranty: 3 years
Roadside assistance: 3 year / 100 000 km
ToyotaCare service plan: 5 year / 90 000 km

Price: R182 825
Extra Care Warranty
4th year/150 000km Extra Care Warranty: 1 595
5th year/180 000km Extra Care Warranty: 2 125

Colours
Super White
Silver metallic
Grey mica metallic
Black mica
Super red
Red mica metallic
Dark green mica
Dark blue mica metallic
Greyish blue metallic
Dark blue

In line with an international face lift for the Corolla, Toyota has refreshed the exterior and interior appearance of South Africa’s popular sedan range.

Together with the styling upgrade comes a realignment of the model range. Buyers can choose from 10 variants in a realigned Corolla range. The GLS and GLX derivatives have a number of comfort and convenience features added.

In the new line up, the Corolla 180i GLE is replaced by a new model, the Corolla 180i GLS. The Corolla 180i GLS Auto is also replaced with a new model, the Corolla 180i GSX with a premium specification level.

Exterior styling changes include a new frontal treatment with a restyled grille and front bumper. The rear styling has been updated with a new rear light cluster.

Five new metallic colours are added for the Corolla in its latest form. These are: Dark Red Mica, Light Blue Mica, Silver, Champagne, and Dark Green Mica. Three existing colours; Black Mica, Dark Blue Mica, and White complete the eight colour range.

The interior of the Corolla now features a two-tone grey finish across the range for dashboard and door trim panels. Seat trim colours and designs are refreshed across the range. The GSX premium specification models are now fitted with “Optitron” instrument illumination and have a smoked wood finish on the centre console.

Comfort and convenience features are enhanced on the GLS and GSX specification models with the radio/CD combination now featuring an integrated 6-disc CD shuttle at this specification level. The audio system on these models now also features steering wheel mounted remote controls. Power remote mirrors are added to the GLS specification. On the GSX specification variants one-touch power windows are fitted on all four doors.

The Corolla GLS specification now includes a front passenger airbag. A seat belt pretensioner is fitted on the front passenger seat to compliment the SRS airbag system and ensure that the passenger is effectively restrained by the seat belt in the event that the airbag deploys. The airbag and seat belt pretensioner combination was previously only fitted to the driver’s side on Corolla GLS models.

Since its introduction two years ago the latest generation has been embraced by South African buyers to build on its reputation as South Africa’s most popular sedan car. In the past 24 months since the model was first shipped to dealers a total of 44 060 Corolla sales have been recorded in South Africa through July 2004. This builds on the success of the Corolla brand as the most popular sedan in South Africa for 22 years. In the process the Corolla has enabled Toyota to remain unchallenged as market leader in South Africa for 24 years.

Corolla highlights:

• The world’s most popular car with sales of over 30 million.
• South Africa’s most popular car for 22 years.
• More than 750 000 Corollas sold in South Africa to date.
• All time one month South African sales record of 4 398 units.
• 100 000 Corollas produced in just 32 months in South Africa (1988-1990).
• Internationally Corolla accounts for 20% of Toyota sales as the second largest vehicle manufacturer in the world.
• In March 2003 the Corolla became Toyota South Africa’s first volume export model when shipping of a derivative for the Australian market began.

Prices for the realigned Corolla range are as follows:

Corolla 140i: R109 323
Corolla 140i GLE: R132 599
Corolla 140i GLS: R146 194

Corolla 160i GLE: R147 975
Corolla 160i GLE AT: R159 866
Corolla 160i GLS: R159 559
Corolla 160i GSX: R177 425

Corolla 180i GLS: R169 002
Corolla 180i GSX: R189 585
Corolla 180i GSX AT: R201 476

All Corollas are sold with a 5year/90 000 kilometre service plan included in the price. This covers all specified service items as detailed in the Toyota “Book of Life” including parts and labour. Wear and tear items, such as tyres, are excluded.

Warranty cover is for 3 years/100 000 kilometres with roadside assistance provided during the warranty period. In addition warranty protection against corrosion perforation is provided for 3 years.

Related article: Toyota Corolla – Product to suit a wide range of choice

"The Toyota Corolla offers a stylish design and the latest automotive technologies in a small car package that is highly competitive," says Johan van Zyl, President of Toyota South Africa. "Our philosophy with this product is to offer our customers an exciting light car, one that draws on the heritage of the Corolla as not just South Africa’s best selling car ever, but the world’s best seller.

"To ensure that a wide range of customer preferences is met we offer the Corolla in four specification levels. We continually review our product range to ensure that we fully meet customer expectations. An example of this is the latest realignment of the Corolla range with adjustment to the specifications that our research indicates will be preferred by our customers.”

The 10 models in the new Corolla range are grouped in the three engine sizes and four specification levels; baseline, GLE, GLS, and GSX. All feature 5-speed manual transmissions although the 160i GLE and 180i GSX are also offered with a 4-speed automatic transmission with lock-up. Electronic control on this advanced automatic transmission ensures smooth changes (a solenoid valve adjusts clutch pressure depending on driving conditions to achieve this) and optimum efficiency.

The comprehensive baseline specification level offered on 140i and 160i models includes, amongst other items: All-aluminium, latest generation fuel injected engines; disc brakes front and rear; power steering; transponder key immobiliser system; radio frequency remote alarm; central locking with selective unlock feature; digital clock; dome lamp delay; headlamp on buzzer; 4-bulb halogen headlamps; engine exhaust catalyst; centre console with lid; in dash storage compartments; cup holders; whiplash reducing front seat design; head impact protection trim.

The GLE specification level is offered on 140i, and 160i, models and adds items such as: air-conditioning; radio/CD player combination with four speaker system; height adjustment for the driver’s seat; and seat back pockets (passenger and driver), and a multi function trip computer.

Moving up a level to the GLS specification Toyota adds a number of extra safety items to the specification list on 140i, 160i, and 180i models over and above the GLE trim level. Included here are driver and passenger airbags; seat pre-tensioners and force limiters and ABS brakes with electronic force distribution. Also featured are electric windows at the front and power remote control for the side mirrors. The radio/CD combination at this level has an integrated 6-CD shuttle and steering wheel mounted remote control.

The GSX specification level, offered in 160i and 180i variants, provides a full house luxury level of specification which includes: power windows front and rear with one-touch operation; power remote side mirrors; front fog lamps; leather inserts and side panels on seats; simulated smoked wood panel detailing, and 6JJ X 15 alloy wheels. A climate control air conditioner is fitted at this level.

"In the true Toyota tradition the new Corolla offers a choice of models that will allow buyers to tailor engine size and specification levels to their specific needs," says Johan van Zyl. "The pricing and value for money package on this model range ensures that it is an aggressive competitor in the small car class.”

The launch of the all-new Toyota Corolla sedan range locally comes as close to the reinvention of the wheel as it is possible for a motor company and rounds off a year in which Toyota South Africa’s Japanese parent purchased the majority shareholding, a new press line was commissioned at the plant in Durban to cater for export production and the management team was reshuffled – the end result a new level of dynamism and excitement.

Toyota South Africa celebrates its 41st birthday this year and for more than half that time – 22 years in fact – the Corolla has been the country’s top selling passenger car with more than 725 000 sold locally and one that constitutes 20% of all Toyota sales world wide.

In a market where more than 85% of all new vehicles sales each month are fleet or corporate purchases the Corolla has become almost a security blanket for fleet buyers – a known entity, tried and trusted with well established resale credentials and whole life operating cost economies to which many other marques still aspire.

Missing from the Corolla recently though has been the element of sparkle, the ‘pizzazz’ that lifts a vehicle from simply being transport to something more aspirational.

“Throughout the long process of gearing up for the launch of this new Corolla, the fleet and corporate buyers have been an integral part of the planning process,” says Marius Burger, Toyota SA’s marketing director. “We did extensive research to find out exactly what fleet buyers wanted and expected in the cars, we applied the same research to the rental companies and, while satisfying those requirements, we also built-in the things we hope will appeal specifically to the car allowance buyer and company ‘user chooser’.”

With the provision of a 5 year/90 000 km maintenance plan as standard, the inclusion of a number of value adding items to the specification and the fact pricing remains on par with, and sometimes lower than, the vehicle it replaces will come as good news to all corporate buyers – especially with the spectre of impending interest rate hikes and further petrol price increases before the end of the year.

"The new Corolla offers a stylish design and the latest automotive technologies in a small car package that is highly competitive," says Johan van Zyl, president of Toyota South Africa. "Our philosophy with this product is to offer our customers an exciting new light car experience, one that draws on the heritage of the Corolla as not just South Africa’s best selling car ever, but the world’s best seller.

"This new package re-states the core values of Corolla and adds significant value in every area over the model it replaces. It is a car that we believe will significantly expand our potential customer base by attracting buyers from outside of our traditional buyer profile, particularly younger buyers, who will appreciate the stylish appearance and dynamic performance of this new model range.

"With the new Corolla we enter the Toyota Motor Corporation global supply chain as a volume exporter, an opportunity that has been denied us up to now. This has an enormous impact on our competitiveness in the market and this shows, not just in the pricing of the range but also in the value added to the product in its latest form. There is a significant improvement in value for money based on retail selling price of the new model with its improved specification, and this takes into account only the tangible improvements, not those associated with the improved styling and dynamic performance of the new Corolla.

"If we consider our volume model, the fleet favourite, 160i GLE (R144 795 compared to the previous version at R143 080), then the list of added tangible added value items is rear disc brakes, 195/60/15" tyres, tilt steering column, lidded centre console, height-adjustable driver’s seat, rear headrests, seat back pockets on driver’s and front passenger seats; vanity mirror with cover, seatbelt warning light, exhaust catalyst and onboard computer.

"In surveying our customers to define their broad based requirements we noted affordability takes a high priority. In this context not all buyers regard safety items such as air bags and anti-lock brakes as essentials and would prefer a choice to include these in their purchasing specification given the cost implications. Past experience has shown also that there is a negative perception associated with these items when they are listed as optional extras.”

The new Corolla comes in four specification levels, one of which is a ‘safety specification’ on the 140i and 160i models. These models have the GLS nomenclature and a driver’s air bag and anti-lock brakes. The GLS specification level also applies to the 180i Auto.

The 11 models in the new Corolla range are grouped in the three engine sizes and four specification levels; baseline, GLE, GLS and GSX. All feature 5-speed manual transmissions although the 160i GLE and 180i GLS are offered with a 4-speed automatic transmission with lock-up.

The baseline specification level offered on 140i and 160i models includes disc brakes front and rear, power steering, transponder key immobiliser system, remote alarm, central locking with selective unlock feature, digital clock, dome lamp delay, headlamp on buzzer, 4-bulb halogen headlamps, engine exhaust catalyst, centre console with lid, in dash storage compartments, cup holders, whiplash reducing front seat design and head impact protection trim.

The GLE specification adds items such as air-conditioning, radio/CD player combination with four-speaker system, height adjustment for the driver’s seat, seat back pockets (passenger and driver) and a multi-function trip computer.

Moving up to the GLS specification Toyota adds a number of extra safety items such as a driver’s side air bag, seat pre-tensioners and force limiters and anti-lock brakes with electronic force distribution. Also featured are electrically operated windows at the front.

The GSX specification level, offered only in 160i and 180i variants, provides a full house luxury level of specification that includes power windows front and rear, power remote side mirrors, front fog lamps, leather inserts and side panels on seats, simulated wood panel detailing, two tone dashboard, ivory coloured trim, driver and passenger air bags, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake force distribution and 6JJ X 15 alloy wheels.

From the outside the new Corolla looks markedly different to the old model and this ninth generation Corolla, while marginally bigger, offers significant improvements in the way in which the interior space has been used.

The Corolla has an overall length of 4 365 mm, overall width of 1 695 mm and a height of 1 470 mm. Front and rear overhangs have been kept to a minimum, 865 mm at the front and 900 mm at the rear, with a wheelbase of 2 600 mm. The interior length of the Corolla is 1 915 mm, the width 1 430 mm, and the height 1 230mm.

From the front the angle of the bumper’s plane is emphasised with form lines sweeping in from the side. The dual lamp headlight configuration adds functionality in the form of improved headlight performance (the low beam setting uses H7 bulbs for a bright, well distributed light pattern).

The side view of the Corolla offers a sleek silhouette. This has been achieved by placing the base of the front pillar far forward with a steep slant for better integration with the body line. Front and rear pillars are wide in form to provide a distinguished feel to the cabin area while wide side protection mouldings add visual appeal. Grip type door handles are both visually attractive and functional.

From the rear large and functional multi-reflector tail light clusters dominate the Corolla. Soft, light almost gold colour turn indicator lenses are featured in place of traditional harsh orange lenses – the complete package an aerodynamic one with a drag coefficient of just 0,29.

The flowing lines of the new Corolla are carried through into the interior where the instrument panel is gently curved to integrate fully with the door trim while the dashboard panel has large gauges and switches and the white-faced instrument panel illumination is even and clear with six-step brightness control.

The Corolla uses the latest in crushable zone technology for a high level of energy dispersion in a crash with the deformation of the cabin area constrained in both frontal and offset type collisions.

This high level of protection is carried through to side collision damage where the structure of the centre pillar is designed to provide a high level of protection while side impact beams are incorporated in the door design. Both front and rear bumpers are fitted with large reinforced areas to assist in reducing body damage through deformation in the event of a low speed minor impact.

All the engines in the new Corolla feature Toyota’s VVT-i variable valve timing system that changes the intake valve timing according to engine speed and acts to increase torque in the low to mid-engine speed ranges. This enhances performance, driveability, improves fuel efficiency and assists in producing cleaner exhaust emissions. All three engines are fuel injected and are equipped with catalytic converters in the exhaust system.

The 1,4-litre engine produces 71 kW @ 6 000 r/min and has a maximum torque of 127 Nm @ 4 800 r/min. The shape of the combustion chamber has been optimised to allow the use of a relatively high compression ratio of 10,5:1.

Next up in the engine line-up is the 1,6-litre engine which has power figures of 81 kW @ 6 000 r/min with maximum torque of 146 Nm @ 4 400 r/min. Like the 1,4-litre engine the 1,6-litre power plant has a compression ratio of 10,5:1.

The 1,8 litre engine produces 100 kW @ 6 000 r/min with 171 Nm of torque available at 4 200 r/min. The compression ratio of this engine is 10:1.

Although the Toyota plant in Prospecton near Durban will be building Corolla for export to Australia, the South African version features a number of unique elements – the carpeting is far superior to the export models, the white-face instrumentation is for the local market only and the massive improvement in noise, vibration and harshness levels were implemented specifically for South Africa where average speeds are higher and road conditions less savoury than other markets.

"Perhaps the biggest difference in the engineering approach to the new Corolla is that for the first time Toyota South Africa will be producing a vehicle that conforms to TMC global standards down to the last detail," says Bruce Avern-Taplin, Toyota SA’s senior general manager product engineering.

"The most significant changes for the local model over its Japanese produced counterpart are the ride and handling package and the NVH package where we show a measurable improvement. South African buyers are very conscious of these facets of a vehicle and have developed particular preferences that exceed expectations in some other markets.

“Other areas that have been addressed are cooling – we use a 27 mm radiator core as opposed to the 16 mm Japanese specification – and the adoption of the European specification for wheels and tyres. We have also adopted a quad-headlight system for improved headlight performance and our fuel tank is bigger, with a 60-litre capacity. Our seats are of a slightly different design, with higher bolsters – more of a sports type seat than the Japanese model.”

The Euro-designed Corolla was developed to deliver simple, low cost maintenance and competitive parts pricing. In the event of a collision the new Corolla has an increased rate of reparability and the number of parts to be replaced in case of damage has been significantly reduced as well as the labour needed. A head-on collision at 15 km/h at the wheel of the Corolla can involve the replacement of as few as 3 elements.

It was also designed to require less maintenance, a minimal downtime, and an improved durability regarding the wear-down of parts. The new Corolla requires, as standard, classic mineral oil, as opposed to the more expensive synthetic oil. The life-span of the brake pads has been increased by 19%, giving them a life-span of 60 000 km for the front pads and 90 000 km for the rear. The suspension has also been revised in order to extend the life-span of the tyres, allowing the front set to reach 50 000 km and 70 000 km for the rear set.

In every respect the Corolla is a new car and Toyota SA is aiming high – 25% of the total market – and the confidence it has in the new car is plainly evident with new levels of dynamism emanating from the management team.

Toyota South Africa has announced the arrival of two 1.6-litre models to extend the popular Corolla Verso range. These new models are added to the existing range of four 1.8-litre models that have been on the local market for the past year. Significantly these two new Corolla Versos enter the market at below R200 000.

“The compact MPV sector is becoming increasingly competitive in South Africa and worldwide,” says Johan van Zyl, President and CEO of Toyota South Africa. “A year ago we announced the Verso as an element of the Corolla range to achieve representation in this market. The Verso offers both value for money in terms of specification and a high level of space efficiency as a stylish 5+2 seat MPV and has proved a popular addition to the Corolla range.

“With the 1.8-litre Verso 180 models established in the market and well supported by buyers we are in a position to expand the range downwards with two new models that address a high demand sector of the market for compact SUVs selling for under R200 000. Our entry level Verso, the Verso 160, enters the market at a retail price of R179 700 with the Verso 160 SX priced at R197 700. Prices include a 5 year/90 000km ToyotaCare Service Plan.”

The new Verso 160 and Verso 160 SX are powered by a derivative of the proven Corolla 1.6-litre all aluminium engine that produces 81 kW at 6 000 r/min with torque of 150 Nm at 3800 r/min. This compares to the 95 kW at 6000 r/min and 170 Nm at 4 200 r/min of the 1.8-litre engine.

A feature of the Verso is its innovative “Easy Flat-7” fold flat interior. This superb system that set new benchmarks for seating versatility in the compact MPV class, can be configured in as many as 32 different load and seating variations.

Positioned as a high value for money entry level compact MPV, the Verso 160 offers an exceptional list of features including:

• Disc brakes all round with ABS and EBD (Electronic Brake Force Distribution).
• 205/55 R16 91V tyres mounted on 6.5JX16 steel wheels.
• Power steering.
• Air conditioner with clean air filter.
• Rear heater ducts.
• Tinted widows all round with sound absorbing acoustic windscreen.
• Power windows at the front.
• Power side mirrors.
• Illuminated entry system.
• Map reading lights.
• Optitron instrumentation with multi-function display.
• Steering wheel adjustment for rake and reach.
• Front and rear cup holders.
• Auxiliary power point.
• RDS Radio with front-loading CD player.
• Satellite audio controls on steering wheel.
• Dual stage driver and passenger airbags with passenger airbag on/off switch.
• Driver side knee airbag and side airbags for both front seats.
• 3-point seat belts for all seven seats.
• ISO-FIX rear child seat anchors with top tethers.
• Headlamp levelling device.
• Rear fog light.
• Remote control central locking including tailgate.
• Luggage compartment cover.
• Headlamp on and seat belt fastened warning buzzers.
• 5 storage compartments.
• Height adjustable front sports seats.
• Daytona cloth trim

The Verso 160 SX luxury trim version adds the following items to the features list:

• Brake assist system (Assists in optimising braking effort in emergencies).
• Full airbag protection with 7-airbags including curtain side airbags on all four passenger doors.
• 205/55 R16 91V tyres mounted on 6.5JX16 alloy wheels.
• Automatic climate control air conditioning.
• Automatic rain-sensing windscreen wipers.
• Power windows front and rear.
• Electrochromatic rear view mirror.
• Illumination for vanity mirror in sunvisor.
• RDS Radio with in-dash 6 CD shuttle.
• Cruise control.
• Driver and passenger centre armrests.
• Leather steering wheel and gear knob covers.
• Vehicle stability control and traction control.
• Double lock system.
• Front and rear fog lights.
• Estoril cloth trim.

A key-card entry system, electronic steering lock, and a high level of intrusion protection are standard across the Verso range. Fuel tank capacity is 60 litres.

A feature of the Corolla Verso is low accident repair costs, particularly those resulting from lower speed accidents. This is achieved by the use of replaceable crushable structures that isolate the main chassis structure by absorbing crash energy. A number of parts vulnerable to crash damage, like headlights, are designed to separate from their mountings at pre-determined points to lessen the transfer of crash energy and reduce the level of damage and thus repair costs.

Service intervals for the Corolla Verso are 15 000 kilometres and the vehicle price includes a 5 year/90 000km ToyotaCare Service Plan. A 3 year/100 000km mechanical warranty is provided together with 24 hour roadside emergency support.

Corolla Verso prices:

Verso 160 - R179 700
Verso 160 SX - R197 700
Verso 180 - R209 400
Verso 180 SX - R227 400
Verso 180 SX MMT - R235 000
Verso 180 TX MMT - R249 000

The Corolla Verso MPV range gets a new line-up, cosmetic changes and added value packages for 2006.

The new range consists of the Verso 160, Verso 160 SX and Verso 180 TX. All feature a revised frontal appearance with a new grille design while the 160 SX and 180 TX models now have smoked “privacy” glass as standard for the rear side windows. Door scuff plates are also added on these two models.

Added value comes in the form of front and rear park assist for the Verso 160 SX — a standard specification item on the 180 TX.

An electric “moon roof” is fitted as standard to this top of the range model, while white leather trim is available as an on-cost option.

Both the Verso 160 and 180 variants are powered by latest generation lightweight aluminium four cylinder engines that are similar to those used in the Corolla sedan. Drive is via a five-speed manual transmission.

Maximum power available for the 1.6 litre models is a claimed 81 kW at 6 000 r/min with torque of 150 Nm at 3 800 r/min. The 1.8-litre engine produces 95 kW at 6 000 r/min and peak torque is 170 Nm at 4 200 r/min. As used in the Corolla Verso these engines have full Euro Step 4 emission certification.

All models in the range feature Toyota’s Easy Flat-7 seven-seat, fold flat interior which offers as many as 32 different variations of seat versus load capacity.

The Corolla Verso 160 is the “entry level” model in the three model range and sets the tone for the whole range, the SX and TX each building further on the luxury and convenience item specification list.

The 160 comes with such standard features as disc brakes all round with ABS and EBD, 205/55 R16 91V tyres mounted on 6.5JX16 steel wheels, power steering, air conditioner with clean air filter, rear heater ducts, tinted windows all round with a sound absorbing acoustic windscreen, power windows at the front and power side mirrors.

Illuminated entry system, optitron instrumentation with multi-function display, steering wheel adjustment for rake and reach, front and rear cup holders, auxiliary power point, RDS Radio with front-loading CD player and satellite audio controls on steering wheel are also standard.

In terms of safety, all Versos come with dual stage driver and passenger airbags with passenger airbag on/off switch, driver side knee airbag and side airbags for both front seats, three-point seat belts for all seven seats and O-FIX rear child seat anchors with top tethers.

With the Corolla Verso 160 SX you also get as standard the brake assist system, vehicle stability control and traction control, park assist, privacy glass, full airbag protection with seven airbags including curtain side airbags on all four passenger doors, 205/55 R16 91V tyres mounted on 6.5JX16 alloy wheels and automatic climate control air conditioning.

Other standard modcons on the 160 SX include automatic rain-sensing windscreen wipers, power windows, electrochromatic rear view mirror, RDS Radio with in-dash six CD shuttle, cruise control, driver and passenger centre armrests, leather steering wheel and gear knob covers, double lock system, and front and rear fog lights.

Moving up to the top of the range Corolla Verso 180 TX the specification is enhanced with an electrically operated moon roof and 1,8-litre engine.

A key-card entry system, an electronic steering lock, and a high level of intrusion protection are standard.

Added to this is a focus on both low maintenance costs — the Corolla Verso is sold with the ToyotaCare Service Plan — and low accident repair costs.

The latter, particularly those resulting from lower speed accidents, is achieved by the use of replaceable crushable structures that isolate the main chassis structure from damage by absorbing crash energy in lower speed impacts. A number of crash sensitive parts, including the headlights, are also designed to break away from their mountings at pre-determined points to inhibit the level of damage and lower the cost of replacement parts.

The price of the base model Verso 160 remains unchanged at R179 700. The new specification Verso 160 SX with front and rear park assist and privacy glass is priced at R199 700, while the top of the range Verso 180 TX is priced at R227 400 — the price that previously applied to the Verso 180 SX model.

Prices include VAT and a five-year/90 000km service plan. Service intervals are 15 000 kilometres. A three-year/100 000km warranty applies with 24-hour roadside assistance available through the warranty period.