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Since 1966, the Toyota Corolla has been a mainstay model in the Japanese automaker's line-up.
Five decades and eleven generations later, Toyota has officially launched the twelve generation of its Corolla sedan in South Africa.
According to Ueda-san, Corolla Chief Engineer: "One of the big merits of the new platform is that it allows designers more freedom to create a dynamic exterior. We've also ensured better all-around visibility for the driver by implementing thinner A-pillars and a lowered dashboard and bonnet."
The new Corolla is 20mm lower, with the bonnet edge sitting 35mm lower, and the front overhang registering 25mm shorter. The front and rear tread have been increased by 11 and 22mm, respectively.
Eight exterior colours are on offer, six of them being new. Celestite Grey, Crimson Red, Moonlight Ocean, Scarlet and Dark Blue metallic are the expressive choices, says Toyota SA. Pearl White, Glacier White and Satin Silver remain the neutral tones on offer.
2020 Toyota Corolla sedan. Image: MotorPress
Simple drivetrain options
Two engines options are employed in the new Corolla. The 1.8-litre is carried over from the previous-generation, delivering 103kW and 171Nm. This unit is mated to a ‘seven-speed’ Shiftmatic CVT transmission with seven pre-programmed steps.
Next up is the new 2.0-litre engine (as first seen on RAV4) which ups the ante to 125kW and 200Nm - with a strong focus on fuel efficiency. The engine is mated to either a six-speed manual or ‘10-speed’ Shiftmatic CVT.
Fuel consumption for the 1.8-litre is listed as 6.2-litre/100km, the 2.0-litre manual at 6.5, and the 2.0-litre CVT at 6.0-litre/100km.
READ: A South African favourite returns! Toyota reveals pricing for new Corolla sedan
Two grade options are offered, XS and XR. The XR model serves as the flagship and is available exclusively with the new 2.0-litre engine. The 1.8 XS serves as the entry point to the range.
The XS rolls on 16-inch alloy wheels, while XR models receive turbine-shaped 18-inch alloy wheels.
2020 Toyota Corolla sedan. Image: MotorPress
Pricing and warranty
All Corolla models include a six-services/90 000km service plan with service intervals pegged at 15 000km or every 12-months, whichever comes first. A three-year/100 000km warranty is also included.
• Corolla 1.8 XS CVT - R 372 700
• Corolla 2.0 XR 6MT - R 412 300
• Corolla 2.0 XR CVT - R 425 200
2020 Toyota Corolla sedan. Image: MotorPress
Compiled by: Charlen Raymond
