Many German automakers are planning on having their entire line-up electrified by 2030. While electric cars are great I don’t see them being the solution to more efficient mobility, especially in
South Africa. The hybrid on the other hand, now that seems to be the solution.
Toyota just refreshed its
Corolla offering and I have been living with it for a few days. Here is what you need to know.
The current 12th generation
Corolla was introduced into our local market in 2020 and in 2021 the hybrid offering arrived. This model helped bring
Toyota's pioneering hybrid technology to mainstream models.
While the previous model employed
Toyota’s 4th generation 1.8-litre hybrid engine this new model now features its 5th generation drivetrain. This new
Hybrid powertrain offers enhanced performance, refinement and efficiency. A new
Lithium-Ion battery with enhanced cooling capacity, sits at the core of the upgrade.
The
'5th-gen' hybrid engine offers a 14% increase in Total System Output - up from 90 to 103 kW (+13 kW). The existing 2.0-litre
Dynamic Force engine option remains, gaining an extra 1kW and 3 Nm - for peak outputs of 126 kW and 203 Nm. Fuel consumption according to
Toyota checks in at a modest 3.9 litres per 100km for the
Hybrid. I managed to average 4.5 litres per 100km over my 7 day stint with the car which is incredible for a family sized sedan.
When tootling around the
hybrid system goes about its business relatively unnoticed, changing between petrol and battery and both seamlessly. I do try and run as much of my trip on just the battery and even saw battery only drive at speeds of over 100km/h. The
CVT might drone when you demand all of the power but to be honest, the overall experience from behind the wheel is that of calm and serenity.
I also think that the Corolla looks extremely appealing.
Toyota has updated the styling ever so slightly. Subtle tweaks have been implemented to now differentiate the sedan and hatch variants. New horizontal slats in the front bumper replace the current mesh design, with revised lower moulding further differentiating the two models.
One of the more noticeable elements however are the revised headlamp clusters which feature Bi-LED lighting elements with new larger, J-shaped DRL elements. For the first time, the DRL and turn-signal functions are performed by the same lighting diodes - adding a touch of visual flair.
The cabin is a decent place to be with good quality materials, space and a host of tech items. I’m particularly fond of the wireless Apple CarPlay and the heated seats. The seats themselves are of a sporty nature in their design, supportive and visually appealing. The impressive rear legroom and spacious boot are further plus points.
Overall the
Corolla Hybrid is a winner in my books. Sure it won’t set your pants on fire in the excitement department and it might go unnoticed in the parking lot, but that’s fine. It’s a
Corolla, which means it will run for ages and being a
hybrid will sip fuel, and at the rate fuel is increasing that's all that really matters right now.
Credit: Justin Jacobs
