The Toyota Corolla is for new times

The mid-spec 1.6 Sprinter, which features a sporty style twist courtesy of the anthracite alloys, boot lid spoiler and Sprinter-unique colour palette and trim, has also been upgraded to include Toyota’s award-winning multi-media touch-screen display with reverse monitor and guidelines. Another new standard equipment item for all Corollas is Bluetooth functionality (and steering-wheel switches).

This feature has now been extended to include the entry-level Esteem models. This comes on top of the exiting on-board gadgetry throughout the Corolla range. The engine line-up comprises the exceptional 1.4 litre D-4D turbo diesel (a 2015 SA Car of the Year finalist) and three petrol engines: a 1.33 litre Dual VVT-i unit, a 1.6 litre Dual VVT-i engine and another new powerplant, the 1.8 litre Dual VVT-i unit. All engines are fitted with six-speed manual transmissions, but the 1.6 and 1.8 petrol variants may optionally be mated to Toyota’s new, high-gear, high-efficiency Multidrive S CVT automatic transmission.

The Toyota Corolla has the latest gadgetry and specs. Picture: Supplied

The good news is that the resultant price hike for the new-spec Corollas is much less than the value of the extra kit offered – the increases range from 0.5% up to a maximum of 1.3% (model dependent).

The new Corolla benefits from a three-year/100 000km warranty and comes with a standard five-year/90 000 km service plan. Service intervals are set at 15 000km (including the 1.4 D). The new models are also supported by the ToyotaCare Roadside Assistance Programme, which entitles customers to 24-hour roadside assistance, ensuring ultimate peace-of-mind motoring.