While already known by the automaker’s most iconic nomenclature in both Australia and the United States (pictured in silver), the unexpected name change is likely to be expanded to other markets including South Africa, although this remains to be seen given its association with the sedan.
“There is no better moment than the launch of the upcoming new generation model to reintroduce the Corolla name to our C-segment hatchback and wagon,” former Toyota South Africa Chairman and now Toyota Europe CEO, Dr Johan van Zyl told Britain’s Auto Express.
Last used in Europe on the hatchback version of the E120 generation Corolla better known as the RunX, the all-new E210 will be offered in sedan and hatch bodystyles, as well as an estate in some markets under the Touring Sports banner. A crossover inspired Cross model is also due as evident by a recent trademark application.
As with its siblings Down Under and in the States, the Corolla will ride on the automaker’s TNGA platform and apart from being 25mm lower and 30mm wider than the Auris, incorporate Toyota’s new Keen Look styling language as shown in Geneva earlier this year.
The biggest change will come up front where the previous 1.6 and 1.8-litre normally aspirated petrol engines, as well as the 1.4 and 1.6-litre diesels fall away completely in favour of a single internal combustion mill, the carryover 1.2-litre turbo that will likely continue to produce 85kW and two hybrids outputting 90kW in the smaller 1.8, and 132kW in the case of the 2.0-litre Dynamic Force.
Whereas the turbo-petrol is expected to retain the six-speed manual gearbox, the hybrids will likely get Toyota’s new 10-step Direct Shift CVT with paddle shifters as standards.
In the UK, the Corolla will once again be made at Toyota’s Burnaston Plant in Derbyshire with a rumoured starting price of around £20 000 (R366 634). If given the green light, expect local production to continue at the Prospecton Plant near Durban.
