Corolla ups the ante

When it was launched in 2019, the Toyota Corolla hatch marked a new direction for the badge, with its modern and sporty appearance that was matched by the drive and complemented by a refinement usually associated with luxury vehicles.

Early 2020 saw safety levels elevated to unprecedented levels for a hatchback with the addition of the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) active safety suite to the Xr model. This comprehensive safety system has just been expanded upon with the addition of Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), which provides audible warnings to the driver in an alley-docking scenario where passing vehicles or obstacles may be out of sight.

Safety levels on the entire range include airbags for the driver and passenger as well as side, curtain and driver-knee airbags. Active electronic driver aids featured are Vehicle Stability Control, ABS braking with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Brake Assist. ISOFIX attachment points for child seats are also fitted.

The latest upgrade also has a few aesthetic improvements, in the form of classy new 18-inch wheels on the Xr model, fitted with low-profile 225/40/R18 tyres for even better handling. New colours have also been added to the Corolla Hatch range: Graphite Grey and Caribbean Blue are new monotone options, and Platinum White Pearl is now available in the two-tone range, which are all paired with a metallic-black roof.

Moving on to the interior, a new-generation infotainment system has been installed across the range, and it now boasts Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as well as Google Maps and Waze. A great feature for occupants is the ability to access their music libraries and streaming accounts via apps like Apple Music, JOOX, Spotify and SoundCloud, while Bluetooth is obviously a standard feature.

As a reminder, every model in the Corolla Hatch range is powered by a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine that produces power of 85kW and torque of 185Nm, and fuel consumption of 6.3 l/100km for the six-speed manual and 6.4 l/100km for the CVT model. .

A 6-services/90 000km service plan and a 3-year/100 000km warranty are included in the sales price. Prices are as follows:

Corolla 1.2T Xs                                   R369 100

Corolla 1.2T Xs Bi-Tone                       R379 800

Corolla 1.2T Xs CVT                            R380 600

Corolla 1.2T Xs CVT Bi-Tone                R391 300

Corolla 1.2T XR CVT                           R425 200

Corolla 1.2T XR CVT Bi-Tone               R435 900