In early 2019, Toyota launched its all-new Corolla in South Africa.
The new model, then only available in hatchback guise, heralded a new era for the Corolla badge; one that the car would probably never have been associated with. Twelve months later, and Toyota thought it necessary to bolster the range with an enhanced specification.
The changes are mostly under the skin, but it should definitely aid the Corolla hatchback in finding favour among local consumers.
All Corolla Hatch models are sold with a six-services or 90 000km service plan (service intervals at 12-months or 15 000km) and a three-year or 100 000km warranty. Toyota Connect telematics service and in-car Wi-Fi connectivity (with a complimentary once-off 15Gb) also feature as standard.
Later in March 2020, Toyota South Africa will also launch sedan version of the new Corolla. But unlike the hatchback that’s powered by the 1.2-llitre turbocharged engine, the sedan will feature a 1.8-litre and 2.0-litre engine petrol engines. Both naturally-aspirated.
2020 Toyota Corolla hatchback. Image: MotorPress
The changes explained
All three Corolla hatchback models (Xs, Xs CVT and Xr) receive a wireless charger for mobile devices. The flagship Xr grade is the next candidate to receive Toyota Safety Sense (TSS). This active safety suite comprises a pre-crash system, blind spot monitor, lane trace assist, and all-speed cruise control.
The LED headlamps have also been upgraded to include Auto High Beam (AHB) on the Xr model.
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Bi-tone colour options have been added to the colour palette (Pearl White, Satin Silver, Emotional Red and Caribbean Blue - all paired with a black roof), while Pearl White and Caribbean blue have been deleted in the mono-tone configuration.
The 1.2-litre turbocharged engine’s power outputs remain unchanged, delivering 85kW and 185Nm. Transmission choices are also unchanged: six-speed manual or Shiftmatic CVT with 10 pre-programmed steps.
2020 Toyota Corolla hatchback. Image: MotorPress
Pricing for the 2020 Toyota Corolla range
• Corolla Hatch 1.2T Xs - R 361 900
• Corolla Hatch 1.2T Xs Bi-T - R 372 400
• Corolla Hatch 1.2T Xs CVT - R 373 100
• Corolla Hatch 1.2T Xs CVT Bi-T - R 383 600
• Corolla Hatch 1.2T Xr CVT - R 412 600
• Corolla Hatch 1.2T Xr CVT Bi-T - R 423 100
• Corolla Sedan 1.8 XS CVT - R372 700
• Corolla Sedan 2.0 XR manual - R412 300
• Corolla Sedan 2.0 XR CVT - R425 200
2020 Toyota Corolla sedan. Image: MotorPress
Compiled by: Charlen Raymond