NEW YORK: Toyota will roll out the all-new Corolla Hatchback at at the New York International Auto Show.
The hatchback comes in SE or XSE grades and is touted as having a lengthy list of standard features that includes Entune 3.0 with Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa Connectivity; a revised sport-tuned suspension and new Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform; and the first North American application of Toyota Safety Sense 2.0.
It’s lower (by 2.5cm), wider (by 3cm), and longer (by 3.8cm) than its predecessor, Corolla iM. It also has wider front and rear tracks, and a longer wheelbase.
Its bonnet sits two inches lower than before to offer better forward visibility. The new frontal styling with a rounded nose and trapezoidal-shaped under grille is a further evolution of Toyota’s Under Priority Catamaran and Keen Look design philosophies, both of which emphasise Corolla Hatchback’s increased width.
Slim, J-shaped Bi-Beam LED headlamps wrap deep into the front fenders and accent the front in both stylishness and precise illumination. Wheel sizes range from 16-inches to 18-inches in diameter.
Its hatch – now made from Toyota Super Olefin Polymer and Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene – is not only lightweight to aid fuel efficiency, it is set at a steeper angle (moved 14 degrees forward) for a sporty look. The rear all-LED taillamps feature a diffusing inner lens designed to highlight the hatchback’s stout stance.
Both grades receive LED headlamps and taillights, chrome rear diffuser, and alloy wheels. XSE ups the ante with 18-inch wheels, LED fog lights, chrome front grille surround, and an available innovative Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS). AFS – available only on XSE CVT – allows for the focused distribution of light in an area that matches the vehicle’s speed and steering angle. The Bi-Beam LED units move vertically and horizontally to provide optimal light output by analysing steering angle, vehicle speed, and the vehicle’s longitudinal axes angle to adjust lamps.
The 2.0-litre direct-injection inline four-cylinder engine adopts the latest in Toyota technology and structural efficacies for gains in power, fuel efficiency, and cleaner emissions.
Physically, the engine is smaller and lighter than its 1.8-litre four-cylinder predecessor, which helps to lower Corolla Hatchback’s center of gravity and benefits its overall balance. The 2.0-litre is also quieter for improved Noise Vibration Harshness with additions like a more rigid crank case with integrated stiffener; a lighter resin cylinder head; and a ribbed oil pan.
The engine is equipped with Toyota’s latest D-4S fuel-injection that uses high-pressure direct-injection and low-pressure Port Fuel Injection. The setup adapts its injection method based on driving conditions so that ideal combustion is executed. The engine also features Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligence), with VVT-iE (Variable Valve Timing-intelligence by Electric motor) on the intake side and VVT-i on the exhaust. VVT-iE uses one electric motor instead of oil pressure to control the variable valve timing. Together, the valve timing systems enhance power output and fuel mileage, and cut harmful emissions.
The second generation of Toyota Safety Sense adds new active-safety technologies and capabilities that enhance protection. Some of the features are Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection; Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control; Automatic Emergency Braking; Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist; Automatic High Beam; and Lane Tracing Assist.
The hatchback has seven standard airbags and Toyota’s Star Safety System, which includes Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist, Anti-lock Braking System, and Smart Stop Technology. Blind Spot Monitor is standard on XSE and available on SE.
The hatchback goes on sale in summer.
