2018 Toyota Auris

Toyota Corolla Hatch (2019) Launch Review

Toyota has discontinued the Auris nameplate and replaced it with a reborn Corolla Hatch that offers a thoroughly modern driving experience. We spent a day roaming the Western Cape to get a feel for the newcomer.

What is it?

Apart from the return of the Corolla name, the newcomer still plays in exactly the same segment as the Auris did. Sales in the C-segment hatch segment have dwindled over the last few years with the rise of compact SUVs, but it remains an important model to garner notable volume.

The rivals in the segment remain the top-selling Golf (soon to be replaced with the Golf 8), Ford Focus (new model coming in 2019 too) and the Mazda3 (also seeing a new model come, possibly this year). So for at least a few months, the Corolla Hatch will be the newest model on the market.

The Hatch runs on the same platform (TNGA) as the C-HR and Prius – its wheelbase is 40 mm longer than that of the model it replaces, but its roofline is about 25 mm lower. As far as its looks go, the new design seems to work better than the Auris was ever able to accomplish. The shape and bodywork certainly show off a sporty demeanour and Toyota appears to be appeasing loyal fans with a GR Sport version and the possibility of a full-blown GRMN derivative further down the line.

What engine does it have?

There is just one engine available and it’s the same 1.2-litre turbopetrol that does duty in the C-HR. It’s good for 85 kW and 185 Nm of torque. Fuel consumption is claimed at 6.1 L/100 km. The choice of gearbox is either a 6-speed manual (in the base-spec Xs version) or a 10-step CVT (the latter in the Xs and high-spec Xr derivatives). As far as CVT gearboxes go, the Corolla Hatch’s isn’t too bad. Even when asking for full throttle, there isn’t that audible drone that CVTs are often plagued with, but you do still find yourself prodding the throttle on occasions to maintain acceleration.

On the plus side, the turbocharged engine is free-revving and gives the Corolla Hatch a bit more character than just a tool for getting from A to B. It has acceptable mid-range acceleration when overtaking at freeway speeds and offers decent punch when pulling away from a standstill. Zero to 100 kph is timed at 9.5 seconds for the manual and 10.4 seconds for the CVT.

What's it like to drive?

The new Corolla Hatch rides particularly well. A new multi-link rear suspension adds some effective bump absorption, keeping the Corolla stable on bumpy roads. There’s an initial softness to the suspension that gives way to a firmer, more sporty ride once you lean on it and start pushing on. The engineers have cleverly made it comfortable when driving slowly and on bumpier surfaces, but then when you want to have a bit of fun, there is a sporty chassis lying beneath that comfort. It should do well when tasked with handling a bit more power for upcoming Gazoo Racing models.

Can it fit lots of things and people?

The additional wheelbase has created more room for rear passengers with ample legroom for a 1.8-metres-tall human being. Head- and shoulder room are more than adequate and the 60/40-split rear seatback can fold flat to free up utility space. The load bay is claimed to hold 503 litres, but I suspect Toyota uses a different measuring system to the other manufacturers. Eyeing it up, it seems about the same as a Golf and Renault Megane.

Up front, oddment space (for things like car keys and mobile phones) is a bit limited, with only a single storage bay right up front ahead of the gear lever. The USB port is located in the centre console, so you end up with a cable running the whole length of the transmission tunnel if you want to charge it. The other option is to have your smartphone rattle around in one of the two cupholders while it's charging.

Is it specced well?

Yes, the Corolla Hatch comes with a fair selection of standard kit. Dual zone climate control is standard, as is the centre-mounted touchscreen, LED lights, keyless entry, a reverse-view camera and cruise control. The top-spec Xr version sees the addition of heated seats, which are covered in leather and Alcantara trim, as well as a blind-spot monitoring system.

The only glaring omission from the specification list is Android Auto and Apple Carplay compatibility. Toyota SA did say that it is in the works, but that Japan is still developing it into the system; it could take some time before it’s available.

Is it safe?

As far as a family car goes, the Corolla Hatch has a full house of safety features. Stability control is standard across the range and there are 7 airbags available. The usual suite of ABS, EBD and brake assist are all standard and the Xr version additionally gets blind-spot monitoring.

Summary

The new Corolla ticks a lot of boxes when it comes to the C-segment hatch market. It’s spacious and rides comfortably with a capable turbocharged engine that delivers enough power without drinking much fuel. It’s well specced with safety features and priced competitively in a stylish package that might just be enough to tempt buyers away from the competition.

Pricing and warranty

The Corolla Hatch is priced competitively in the segment matching the equivalent Golf, but with a few more standard features on offer. It comes standard with a 3-year/100 000 km warranty and 6-services/90 000 km service plan.

- Corolla Hatch 1.2T Xs 6MT – R 336 800

- Corolla Hatch 1.2T Xs CVT – R 347 400

- Corolla Hatch 1.2T Xr CVT – R 367 100

https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/toyota-corolla-hatch-2019-launch-review/46275/

Corolla Hatch 1.JPGCorolla Hatch 2.JPGCorolla Hatch 3.JPGCorolla Hatch 4.JPGCorolla Hatch 5.JPGCorolla Hatch 6.JPG
 
DRIVEN: Toyota Corolla Hatch 1,2T Xs 6MT

Contrary to popular belief, volumes in the C-segment hatchback market are skewed towards mid- and high-spec models instead of entry-level, cheaper derivatives. So says Toyota, at least, which explains its decision to rationalise its local hatch line-up by introducing just three models spanning one engine choice and two transmission variants across two generously specced trim grades. It ditches the Auris name after two generations, too, adopting the iconic Corolla nameplate for the first time locally on a five-door model since the 1990s.

On the local launch in Cape Town and the Winelands, we had a chance to drive the entry-level 1,2T Xs manual, plus the flagship 1,2T Xr CVT, and both were hugely impressive. Volkswagen Golf-impressive? Read on…

The range and spec

Starting at R336 800 for the manual, rising to R347 400 for the Xs CVT and peaking with the Xr CVT at R367 100, the new Corolla Hatch directly targets the Golf 1,0 TSI Comfortline on price and undercuts the 1,4 TSI Comfortline DSG. I’m curious to see what Ford SA does with upcoming Focus pricing, although I suspect its 1,0 EcoBoost variants will be a touch cheaper than these two.

While it would appear unwise to price your new competitor on par with the class-leader, Toyota has equipped the Corolla to a higher level than the Golf. Items such as LED headlamps, automatic climate control, a rear-view camera and keyless entry and start are standard on the Japanese hatch’s Xs grade and extra-cost options for the German. The Xr adds sport seats trimmed in Alcantara and cloth, stitched coverings on the door cards and facia, seat heating and blind-spot monitoring. All models run on 16-inch alloys wrapped in plump eco tyres.

Striking design

But it doesn’t have only strong spec to boost its case; the design is rather striking, too. A rarity on new cars, the front and rear lights echo the same design theme, while curated swathes along the flanks give the Corolla a multi-dimensionality on the move missing from its more straight-laced rivals. Sure, the 16-inch wheels look feeble in their arches but I’d happily sacrifice inches for comfort.

The interior, meanwhile, is a touch more restrained but leaves an indelible impression of quality. I’d wager this is the best-finished cabin in the class alongside the Golf’s. There’s a uniformity to the material choices that isn’t always a given in a Japanese car’s cabin, plus the panels don’t deflect unduly under prodding and I couldn’t detect a single rattle or peep on the two vehicles we drove during the launch. Really impressive stuff.

Space is good, too – my 1,85-metre could fit behind my driving position without much hardship – and headroom’s sufficient all round. The 294-litre boot, unfortunately, is at the smaller end of the scale to accommodate a full-size spare wheel.

Happily, Toyota has retained analogue controls for the climate-control system and they’re easy to use on the move (although the supplementary display might be a touch too small for those occupants lacking 20:20 vision). There’s the latest evolution of the brand’s touchscreen infotainment system, too, and it’s equally simple to navigate. Note that satellite navigation isn’t offered, nor is smartphone-mirroring for the first few months of retail.

Under the bonnet

CAR’s team adores Toyota’s 1,2-litre turbopetrol engine and it’s great to find it in another product aside from the C-HR. Offering a linear delivery from 1 500 r/min, impressive punch mid-range considering its modest displacement, and cultured manners even when approaching the red line, it’s a great example of a small turbocharged engine. It’s nicely frugal, too; we registered in the mid-sevens on our long launch drive. I suspect that reading could be lowered to a figure starting with a six when the car is driven conservatively.

And on the road

Perhaps the most impressive part of the new Corolla Hatch is its driving habits. I was genuinely impressed with how composed and comfortable the TNGA platform is (it serves in the Prius and C-HR, too). There’s absorbency to spare in the suspension, even on nuggety gravel roads like the ones we drove on the launch, but not at the expense of composure. The Hatch leans progressively in corners, steers cleanly and has a consistency to the weighting of its controls – the manual’s shift quality is sublime – that reminds me once again of its German rival. It certainly feels like a chassis that could take more power, which it will get in an upcoming GR variant (that’s as much as Toyota’s communications department was willing to divulge).

So, better than a Golf?

Perhaps not quite, but near as dammit. The Volkswagen has the edge in terms of space utilisation and rolling refinement, but the Toyota isn’t far behind in these disciplines while adding better spec, a brilliant little turbopetrol engine and a great design. Although Toyota’s decision to return the revered Corolla name to a five-door may bolster the Hatch’s chances in a segment under threat from crossovers, it doesn’t need it; the Corolla Hatch deserves to succeed because it’s great. Simple as that.

Model:Toyota Corolla Hatch 1,2T Xs 6MT
Price:R336 800
Engine:1,2-litre, 4-cyl, turbopetrol
Power:85 kW @ 5 200-5 600 r/min
Torque:185 N.m @ 1 500-4 000 r/min
0-100 km/h:9,5 seconds
Top Speed:200 km/h
Fuel Consumption:6,1 L/100 km
CO2:141 g/km
Transmission:6-speed manual
Maintenance Plan:six services/90 000 km

https://www.carmag.co.za/car-reviews/driven-toyota-corolla-hatch-12t-xs-6mt/

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Driven: New Corolla is nothing like the one you know

It’s a Toyota Corolla Jim, but not as we know it.
It’s tongue in cheek of course, but there are those in certain circles who wonder why anyone would walk into a showroom, cast an eye over it and ask if it’s available in white or silver.

It’s also sometimes referred to as an appliance, again white or silver, functional, safe and does the job required of transportation, not to forget its great resale value.

Not so much anymore though with the introduction of the Toyota Corolla hatch that takes over the badge of the Auris, and in fact it is actually quite funky. There's also a sedan version on the way to replace the locally-built, current-generation four-door, but that's unlikely to hit our shores before 2020.

‘Corolla’ is an incredible success in South Africa and I doubt whether there are many people who haven’t either owned, driven or been a passenger in one.

This new hatch is set to build on that success and comes in three flavours; the 1.2 Xs 6MT, 1.2T Xs CVT and 1.2T Xr CVT.

Toyota have now also joined the ranks of small turbo powered cars with all models powered by a four-cylinder 1.2 litre turbo petrol engine that gives you 85kW and 185Nm. The Xs 6MT is coupled to a six speed manual transmission while the two remaining models are driven by a 10 speed continuously variable transmission.

Yes, the ubiquitous CVT which it must be said in its defence in this instance actually works incredibly well on the Corolla Hatch.

We found no lag and even when passing slower traffic at last week’s launch in and around Cape Town, the whining sound and quick pick up of revs and slow moving of the speedometer were noticeably absent.
The true test however will be up at Gauteng altitudes. Kudos though to the engineers for having got this one feeling right.

They have also managed to get the looks right, and with the addition of three new colours in Scarlet Metallic Red, Oxide Bronze and Caribbean Blue, the appliance moniker doesn’t really apply anymore.
Built on Toyota’s New Global Architecture chassis it’s longer, lower and sleeker than its Auris predecessor.

The front is dominated by a new mesh design grill coupled to an all-LED lamp cluster with daytime running lights beneath the bonnet and upper grill.
The back has an aggressive curve about it accentuating its width while the LED light clusters are located at the end of the corners while all versions feature a roof spoiler and shark fin antenna.

Inside it’s a whole new look as well and the first thing that strikes you are the soft-touch surfaces and touchscreen infotainment system that give it an upmarket feel, not to mention thoroughly modern. They’ve changed the instrument panel to be slimmer to improve visibility and although it won’t be mistaken for a hot hatch the interior has a definite sporty quality including the seats in the Xr model that have Alcantara covered front sport seats with brushed aluminium just below the headrest.

Also new is a multi-link rear suspension that’s improved ride quality and road-holding as well as a new shock absorber valve design. The improvements are quite noticeable particularly around sharp corners as experienced driving along Bainskloof pass on the way back to Cape Town.
Steering feedback was positive but to be fair, the average buyer won’t be too hassled about that neither about the claimed 9.5 seconds for 0-100km/h for the manual and 10.4 for the CVT shod car, or top a speed of 200km/h.
Fuel consumption averaged out at 7.1L/100km slightly above the claimed 6.1.

Seven airbags, stability control, ABS, EBD, brake assist and hill assist control are standard safety features should things become a bit hairy.

With the changes and new style South Africa’s love affair with the Corolla will no doubt continue and in this guise it’s easy to see why. It comes with a six-service/90 000km service plan and a three year/100 000km warranty.

PRICES

1.2T Xs 6MT - R 336 800
1.2T Xs CVT - R 347 400
1.2T Xr CVT - R 367 100

https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/late...lla-is-nothing-like-the-one-you-know-19876111
 
No AEB, no adaptive cruise, no blind spot monitors, no cross traffic alert etc etc. not even as options. It should be criminal that a brand new model in this segment doesn’t offer these. Shows Toyota take SA’s as fools.
 
Saw one of these in silver this past Friday. At this price point, and with the engines you get, it's not worth the money. Add a few K more then you can get a way better car.
 
Toyota Corolla Hatch 1.2T XS (2019) Review

Fast Facts

Price: R336 800 (April 2019, without options)
Engine: 1.2-litre i4 turbopetrol
Gearbox: 6-speed manual
Fuel economy: 6.1 L/100 km (claimed)
Power/Torque: 85 kW/185 Nm

Price and after-sales support

The new Toyota Corolla Hatch comes with a 6-services/90 000 km Service Plan and 3-year/100 000 km warranty. Service intervals are set at 12 months/15 000 km.

Corolla Hatch 1.2T XS 6MT R336 800

Corolla Hatch 1.2T XS CVT R347 400

Corolla Hatch 1.2T XR CVT R367 100

Verdict

So to put it plainly, the new Toyota Corolla Hatch is one impressive piece of kit. Not only does it look superb, but it represents commendable value for money, given how much specification is offered on even this, the bottom-of-the-range derivative. The engine and gearbox work well together, and while most Corolla Hatches are going to be used for commuting, the 1.2T XS can deliver surprising thrills when you want to press on. The chassis and handling are good, and with the rise of Toyota's GR/GR Sport/GRMN performance brands, this bodes well for an eventual Corolla (Hot) Hatch to rival the likes of the Megane RenaultSport and Golf GTI. If the Yaris GRMN was anything to go by, the Corolla GRMN should be sensational.

The overall driving experience is excellent... After all these years, we finally have a product that can match the mighty Volkswagen Golf in terms of on-road manners and refinement. The bad news is that 2019 will see new segment entries from Mazda and Ford (all-new versions of the 3 and Focus are heading to Mzansi). Should you buy a Corolla Hatch, though? We think if you're a small family with an infant who doesn't have massive space requirements and doesn't feel inclined to go the SUV-route, then Toyota's newcomer offers great value as a compact hatchback or as a 2nd car. Toyota is currently Brand of the Year in the #CarsAwards - powered by WesBank, and has a vast dealership network across South Africa.

https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/toyota-corolla-hatch-12t-xs-2019-review/46517/

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Saw one for the 1st time and it does look good and even the interior as well.
Love the front seats.
 
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