Much-awaited amongst the year’s key launches, the new-generation Toyota Corolla sedan (11th world, fourth here) expectedly impacted both the media and the market.
Yet, in spite of positive rerviews, its prices were severely criticised.
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The car is more expensive: GLi, up 2.6%; XEi, 3.5%, and Altis, 7%. Retail starts at BRL66,750/$28,700 and tops BRL92,900/$39,900. And the top version offers less features compared to direct competitors.
Toyota argued the GLi goes for BRL1,800/$772 more, yet has additional equipment worth BRL4,000/$1,720; XEi, BRL1,800/$772 but BRL6,000/$2,750, respectively; Altis, BRL2,500/$1,073 and BRL8,000/$3,430.
Toyota tried to say it was charging less than it could for an entirely new, larger, safer, better equipped, more fuel efficient and locally built model just nine months after its introduction in other markets.
One of the new highlights is the daring design, an escape from the dull, classic standard. It is less evident inside, though the 10cm/3.93in wheelbase boost makes quite a difference for rear seat users.
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By GlobalDataSome interior materials are improved but visible bolts can still be found, the passenger-facing clock is badly placed and some careless finish in less visible points was spotted. Boot space is unchanged at a good 470 litres/16.6 cu ft.
The new automatic, a ‘virtual seven-speed’ CVT gearbox improves performance and fuel efficiency. With the two-litre engine (XEi, Altis) running on ethanol, the 0-100km/h/62.5mph sprint is despatched in 9.8 sec, according to factory data, a 15% improvement.
Although the Corolla GLi with the smaller 1.8-litre engine with CVT (just one manual version is available) turned out to be 10% more fuel efficient on the urban cycle on ethanol, the improvement was barely 1% in the road cycle due to a change in the measurement method imposed by Inmetro’s fuel consumption labelling programme.
A subtle yet perceivable change when driving is the better angle of the steering wheel (more vertical). Ride is softer but the lower front bumper is prone to hit speed bumps. Interior noise is down 4% thanks to an acoustic windscreen and a new sound deadening package.
Toyota is confident of the car earning five stars (top grade) in the coming Latin NCAP crash test. Yet – unjustifiable – electronic stability programme (ESP) and brake assist are not even optional. A sun roof and 17-in light alloy wheels are also not offered.
To sum it up, well or badly priced, this Toyota will retrieve leadership of the second most hotly contested segment in Brazil, compact-midsize saloons. And by more good points than before.
