Toyota has announced the arrival of the next-generation of the Corolla hatchback at the New York Auto Show all set to commence next week. Based on the new TNGA platform, the Corolla gets the Entune 3.0 infotainment system and Toyota’s safety sense 2.0 amongst the long list of changes.
The new Corolla hatchback comes with a wider stance, a longer wheelbase and reduced overhangs to begin with. The design philosophy is getting angular by the day with the typical Japanese snazzy cuts and contours leading the way. The J-shaped twin-LED headlamps complement the gaping grille. Moving on to the sides, the Corolla does hide its bulk with a raked windshield as well as a raked tail gate, which makes the roof-line smaller while adding a touch of sportiness to the hatchback.
The multitude of surfaces blending together continues inside as well, but because it is all in black, it doesn’t look as busy. The tablet-screen dominates the dash along with the climate control unit. The simple three-spoke steering peeks into the three-pod instrument cluster that embeds a large multi-information display within the speedometer. It gets leather upholstery which might be limited only to the top trims along with power adjustable front seats.
Under the hood, sits the latest and more efficient iteration of the 2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine which also comes with a hybrid setup as seen in the Camry and the Lexus cars. Along with the new engine, the suspension has also been re-tuned for a sportier ride. The Corolla comes with its own set of driver aids like ABS and ESP along with safety features like the pre-collision or pedestrian warning system, lane departure, radar-controlled cruise control et al.
The 2019 Corolla is expected to hit the market later this year and we shall get more clarity on this after its debut next week. Also, the new design language might also reflect on the Toyota Corolla Altis, the sedan, which is sold in India and which is due for a generation change in the next couple of years.
