It is bold and appears to be better in every respect.
Wayne Gerdes -
CleanMPG - Sept. 19, 2012
2013 Toyota Corolla – Pricing and FE ratings TBA.
Toyota Australia announced that its next-generation Corolla hatch will be launched later next month at the Australian International Auto Show in Sydney.
The upcoming Corolla hatch is being touted as a dynamic performer while also providing improved fuel economy.
From the highway fuel economy perspective, you can almost see the improvement with the sharply sloped hood and front glass. The length was increased by 1.2 in and height was reduced 2.2 in., both of which helped lower the aero drag and Cd to a very class competitive 0.28.
Outside
Toyota’s new "Smart Dynamism" design theme has a protruding character lines and deeply contoured fenders that at a glance look very Elantra like. Close wheel to well fittings add to the sporty new look while the rear corner window appears Mazda3 like in profile. The long front/short rear overhang detracts from the new silhouette however.
Inside
The new Corolla’s seats are lowered 1.6 in for a lower driving position and the steering wheel angle was modified to enhance the feel of sporty driving ala Lexus GS.
The use of thin seat backs provides more legroom for the rear seat occupants and a larger cargo space of 12.7 cu. ft. under the VDA method is standard.
Metallic surrounds at the door grips, audio controls, steering wheel and gear stick spiff it up a bit, And finally Toyota is listening as it appears they are going to install a cloth like woven headliner with the description of fabric covering on the front A pillar garnish. We will have to wait and see.
Toyota says the cabin is noticeably quieter with extensive soundproofing to reduce engine and road noise which should again make it competitive with the rest of its class.
Ride and Handling
The electric power steering is said to be more direct providing greater response with improved feedback, better on-center feel and greater agility. All of this possibly means a tighter steering ratio?
And the Corolla hatch may be equipped with an honest to goodness double wishbone in the rear that should improve ride and handling immensely!
Safety
All Corolla/Auris models feature an omni-directional compatibility body structure that minimizes body deformation even in collisions with larger vehicles, and new features such as impact-absorbing hoods and bumpers that serve to minimize injuries afflicted on pedestrians in the event of a collision.
Standard on all models should be the Star Safety System including Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and Smart Stop Technology (SST).
Early Conclusions
This is the best looking Corolla in history. With the possibility of an independently sprung rear end, Ride and Handling are guaranteed to be better than the vague and baby buggy rolling current Corolla. A low Cd of around 0.28 should reveal far better than the current and “class following”, ie. Bottom dweller, 30 mpgUS combined guesstimate. At least I hope?
Toyota is the world’s leading producer of C-segment cars, having sold more than 39 million Corolla’s in more than 140 countries since the introduction in 1966.
Cars for the Australian market will be built in Japan.
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