Unveiled at the Guangzhou International Auto Show in China, the sedan, as previously indicated, rides on the same TNGA platform as the hatch, but measures 4 640mm in overall length with a wheelbase of 2 700mm, height of 1 435mm and width of 1 780mm.
Claimed to offer the handling of a sports sedan without sacrificing on comfort, the new platform sees the sedan letting go of the previous model’s torsion beam rear suspension in favour of a multi-link setup, while the MacPherson strut layout at the front is all new, with the use of ultra-high-tensile steel contributing to a structure that is some 60% more rigid than that of the old model.
Aesthetically, the sedan takes styling inspiration from what was previously known as the Auris at the front, while the rear almost conforms to the images leaked in a Brazilian magazine last year, by taking hints from the Camry such as the thin, full-length taillights, a pronounced rear bumper with boomerang-like slashes on the sides, a faux rear diffuser and a boot spoiler on higher end models.
As expected, the interior is carried over from the hatch with the same range of comfort and driver assistance systems on offer depending on the trim level and market. Unknown though is boot space and the likely weight drop relative to the previous sedan.
Model-wise, the Corolla, as mentioned, will be available in two flavours worldwide; the Sporty pictured here in North American spec that will also be sold as the Levin in China and Japan, and the so-called Prestige that adopts a more luxurious appearance again similar to the Camry, and which will be offered in China, Europe and “other select” markets that could include Australia and potentially South Africa.
In the States, the sedan will come outfitted with the same spec levels as the hatch; L, LE, XLE and the sportier SE and XSE grades, with power for the former trio coming from the same 103kW 1.8-litre petrol engine that powered the previous sedan, while the latter pair are equipped with the new 2.0-litre Dynamic Force motor that makes 125kW/210Nm.
While the lesser engine is mated to a CVT only, the 2.0-litre comes with the option of a six-speed manual or the brand’s new 10-step Direct Shift CVT, the former though only available on the SE. Elsewhere, powertrains will come in the form of the 85kW 1.2-litre turbo-petrol, a 90kW 1.8-litre hybrid and the bigger 2.0-litre hybrid that punches out 132kW. Certain markets in Europe will also have the option of a normally aspirated 1.6-litre mill that make 96kW, mated to a six-speed manual 'box or a CVT.
At present, Toyota South Africa has made no mention when the Corolla will make its local debut, but expect this to take place sometime next year with both bodystyles being offered. The Touring Sports estate shown in Paris earlier this year though, will remain forbidden fruit.
