Toyota's twelfth generation Corolla Hybrid gains significant upgrades in its hatch and Touring Sports estate forms. Jonathan Crouch takes a look.

Ten Second Review

The twelfth generation Corolla hatch and Touring Sports estate models have gained many friends for Toyota amongst family hatch customers wanting full-Hybrid power. Now that engine's been significantly improved in both its forms, as has the interior of this 'E210'-series design. If you'd previously dismissed the Japanese brand as an also-ran in the Focus class, it might be time to think again.

Background

Toyota was aiming to enter fresh territory with this 12th generation Corolla back in 2018 at its original launch. For one thing, it needed to make Hybrids more universally acceptable in this segment - that's why there are two of them with this current model, a 1.8 and a 2.0-litre unit, both of the 'self-charging' non-plug-in variety. This Corolla also aimed to change customer perceptions of Toyota in this sector, which tend to centre around expectations of drab interior quality, forgettable looks and boring drive dynamics. This 'E210'-series model turned out to be a huge step forward from its Auris predecessor in all these areas. But that wasn't quite enough to at last make this Japanese maker competitive at the sharp end of this class amongst Focuses and Golfs. The brand is getting closer though, particularly with the revised Corolla range we look at here, which continues to use the 'TNGA' 'Toyota New Global Architecture' platform and builds on world record sales of more than 50 million Corollas over twelve generations since 1966. There's now a Corolla SUV body style too, but our focus here is on the volume hatch and 'Touring Sports' estate body shapes, now usefully improved with a fifth generation hybrid system and a significant upgrade in interior quality and media tech. Let's take a look.

Driving Experience

This revised Corolla gets the fifth generation of Toyota's full-Hybrid self-charging powerplant and, as before, it's available in both 1.8 and 2.0-litre petrol forms. The big differences come with the smaller capacity 1.8-litre unit, with power output up from 120 to 138bhp, bringing a 1.7s reduction in the 0-62mph sprint time to 9.2s. A lot of that's down to weight-saving (the hybrid system's more powerful lithium-ion battery is 18kgs lighter), plus driveability's been improved too, thanks to a redesign for the power control unit and the transaxle motor. In addition, the hybrid control has been recalibrated to provide acceleration feel closer to throttle pedal use, with less of the previous 'rubber band' effect. As before, it all works via CVT auto gearbox with six speeds. Whichever powerplant you prefer, you should find this Toyota dynamically able - far more so than some of its segment predecessors. Throw the car into a corner and you'll find that though this Corolla is no Focus, it far from disgraces itself, with a decent level of front end grip and steering that's predictable and accurate, though rather light. The 2.0-litre variant's obviously the one to choose if you want a little extra performance, this version (now with power raised from 180 to 193bhp) making rest to 62mph in 7.5s (around a second faster than a VW Golf 2.0 TDI), but more relevant is the huge improvement in response in the 30-50mph overtaking increment that makes the car feel so much more flexible and spontaneously powerful on faster roads. Don't misunderstand us: a 2.0-litre Hybrid Corolla is still way down on the level of pulling power a black pump-fuelled engine would produce, with a 190Nm figure that's almost 50% less than a comparable 2.0-litre diesel. But you notice the shortfall much less than you do with the 1.8-litre Hybrid.

Design and Build

Subtle updates mark out this revised version of the 12th generation Corolla. These include changes to the front grille mesh pattern, fog light bezels and alloy wheel designs. Higher grades of the hatchback and Touring Sports estate models gain smarter bi-LED headlights with an Adaptive High-beam System. In addition to these two core body styles, there's also a completely separate Corolla Cross SUV model, though that's not our focus here. Size-wise, the standard Corolla hatch that most customers choose is pitched plumb in the centre of its segment, slightly shorter than a Ford Focus and quite a bit longer than a Golf. Inside, the changes are farer-reaching, the key one being a much-needed upgrade to the central infotainment screen, which grows in size to 10.5-inches and gains the facility for over-the-air updates. Plus from mid-range trim levels upwards, the driver's instrument display gains a 12.3-inch combimeter that can be customised to preference across four different modes - 'Casual', 'Smart', 'Sport' and 'Tough'. The driver can also make use of a new on-board voice agent that recognises natural, conversational requests to operate the multimedia, or vehicle functions such as opening or closing windows. The cabin's now of higher quality too, with new graphics, trims and embossed patterns that add three-dimensional depth and tactile appeal to the upholsteries, surfaces and finishes. The trim and seat upholstery combinations follow smarter Dark and Light Harmony themes with co-ordinated colours and finishes to give the interior a contemporary, elegant feel. Otherwise, it's much as you were. Rear seat space isn't hugely generous, but two adults will fit OK. Boot space for the 1.8-litre models is rated at 361-litres for the hatch and 598-litres for the Touring Sports estate. Bear in mind that these figures are slightly reduced if you choose the 2.0-litre version.

Market and Model

Toyota isn't bothering here to try and provide an affordable entry-level model, prices across the all-Hybrid, all-automatic range starting from around £30,000. There's a premium of around £1,300 to go from the five-door hatch body shape to the 'Touring Sports' estate. Though you can no longer have a Saloon, there is now a separate Cross SUV model. For the hatch and the Touring Sports estate, there are four main trim levels - 'Icon', 'Design', 'GR Sport' and 'Excel'. All of these spec levels deliver even more kit for the latest model year, with fresh colours that include a vibrant 'Juniper Blue'. The dynamic-looking 'GR Sport' version's been upgraded too. This improved Corolla is equipped with Toyota T-Mate, which combines the latest generation Toyota Safety Sense package with other active driving and parking assistance features. Improvements in the operation and functionality of the systems include Acceleration Suppression, which reacts to sudden use of the accelerator when travelling at low speed; collision avoidance support when making a turn at an intersection; Emergency Steering Assist that can now react to oncoming vehicles; lateral collision avoidance and curve speed reduction. There's also now a 'Safe Exit Assist' system, which stops doors being opened in the face on oncoming vehicles, cyclists or pedestrians. And a 'Rear Seat Reminder' has been added, which alerts the driver to look at the rear seats as they leave the car.

Cost of Ownership

Toyota has decided that all Corolla buyers should have a Hybrid engine - and a look at the efficiency stats reveals why. The stats are still pretty eye-catching, a typical 1.8-litre Hybrid Corolla Hatch with 'Icon' trim managing up to 62.8mpg on the combined cycle and up to 102g/km of CO2. That's further helped, Toyota expects, by the fact that for typical customers, up to 50% of typical commuting journeys will be accomplished in all-electric drive. For the 2.0-litre Hybrid hatch, the best stats are up to 57.7mpg and up to 107g/km. The Japanese maker describes the Corolla's Hybrid technology as being of the 'self-charging' variety, which means that it isn't of the currently popular Plug-in variety. The brand of course has PHEV technology (it's available on top versions of its Prius model) but currently feels it isn't necessary for the Corolla line-up. What else? Well, the five year 100,000 mile warranty is extremely good and even after that runs out, you'll find that you can extend it for nothing up to a maximum of ten years, providing you have the car regularly serviced at a Toyota dealer. There's also three years warranty against rust and 12 years of anti-corrosion protection.

Summary

So what do we have here? A name from the past which packages up technology from the future. Very soon, all family hatchback-class models will feature model line-ups that are primarily electrified. But Toyota has brought us that right now. In a car its volume brand competitors will have to take very seriously indeed, particularly in this updated form. If you're going the Hybrid route with a car in this sector, it makes sense to buy into the brand that has most experience in producing this kind of powertrain - and that's unquestionably Toyota. But this model also has other things to recommend it, with levels of safety and media connectivity that rivals struggle to better. Overall, if you're looking for a car in this segment, a Corolla may not currently be on your shopping list. We think it ought to be.

Body Glass

Power front windows

Power rear windows

Rear window wiper

Rain sensing wipers

Auto up and down function on all power windows

Anti-jam protection on power windows

Time adjustment on intermittent wiper

Rear window defogger

UV-filter on driver and passenger windows

Noise reduction layer on windscreen

Privacy glass with UV filter

Brakes

Traction control

Brake assist function

HAC-Hill-start Assist Control

Electronic parking brake

Downhill Assist Control (DAC)

Anti lock braking system + Electronic brake force distribution

Emergency brake light signal (EBS)

Carpets/Rugs

Textile floor mats

Chassis/Suspension

Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)

Communication

Bluetooth telephone connectivity

E-call

Driver Aids

Reversing camera

Lane Departure Alert (LDA) switch on steering wheel

Memory on adjustable speed limiter

Front and rear parking sensors with auto brake

Proactive driving assist (PDA)

Toyota remote services

Drive mode select (Eco, Normal)

MyT connected services

Driver Convenience

Tailgate

Electrically assisted power steering

Wireless charger

Connected car functionality upgrade, tracker, remote status and e-care

Smart entry and push button start with GR Logo

Driver Information

Key reminder warning

EV drive indicator

Full Digital 12.3" TFT Digital Combimeter

10.5" Multimedia display screen

Toyota smart connect navigation

Smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and wired android auto

Driving Mirrors

Black door mirrors

Reverse tilting door mirrors

Power adjustable heated door mirrors

Turning signal integrated indicators in door mirrors

Automatic folding mirrors

Electrochromatic mirror

Embellishment Trims

Satin chrome dash trim

Soft touch texture on upper dashboard

Stitching on lower dashboard

GR Sport interior styling with accents and exterior styling

Engine

Gasoline particulate filter

Entertainment

6 speakers

DAB Digital radio

AM/FM radio

USB and Aux in connectors + 12V front outlet

Front USB-C in dashboard

Front USB-C in centre console

Smart voice assist/ Voice recognition

Exterior Body Features

Body coloured bumpers

Roof spoiler

Shark fin antenna

Body coloured outside door handles

Unique lower skirt

Unique side rocker with black insert

Black toyota logo in front

Tailgate release with push button

GR sport scuff plates

Rear side wing doors

New grille pattern

GR Sport exclusive under guard

GR Sport dark chrome front mesh grille and black rear grille

Satin chrome insert on front air vents

Piano black diffuser

Rocker and door lower moulding

Satin silver front spoiler

Satin chrome insert on front door assist grips

Black centre and side air vents

Dark chrome lower grille

Exterior Lights

Follow me home headlights

LED daytime running lights

Automatic headlights with high beam assist

LED front fog lights

LED rear combi lights with LED lightguide

LED High mounted stop light

LED dual beam projector headlights

Manual headlight levelling system

Heating/Cooling/Ventilation

Pollen filter

Dual zone automatic air conditioning with ECO mode switch

Nanoe-X air purifier

Remote air conditioning

Interior Features

Front door pockets

Parcel shelf

Tilt/telescopic steering column

Rear armrest with 2 cupholders

Driver and passenger seatback pockets

Driver and passenger assist grip

Voice recognition switch on steering wheel

Rear passenger coat hooks (2)

Adaptive cruise control (ACC) switch on steering wheel

Adjustable speed limiter switch on steering wheel

Fabric/synthetic leather upholstery

Satin chrome inside door handles

Paddle shifts

Boot underfloor storage

Audio, multimedia and telephone switches on steering wheel

Sliding armrest on centre console box

Front and rear cup and bottle holders

Power window switches with satin chrome inserts

Slow opening glovebox with lights

3 spoke leather steering wheel with satin insert/red stitching + gear knob

Front sliding synthetic leather armrest

Black armrest on centre console box

Satin chrome surround on speedometer

Red stitching on gear shift

Black gear shift console

4 tie down hooks in luggage compartment

2 Shopping bag hooks in luggage compartment

Interior Lights

Boot light

Illuminated entry system in room lamp

Driver and front passenger personal light

Centre room light

White ambient lighting on open tray and front cup holder

Packs

Toyota safety sense 3 pack - Corolla

Safety

Seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters

Child locks on rear doors

3x3 point rear seatbelts

Front seatbelt reminder

Front passenger airbag on/off switch

Rear seat belt reminder

Tyre pressure warning system

Supplemental restraint system (SRS) 7 airbags - dual driver, dual side curtain, side impact and driver knee airbags

Adjustable driver and front passenger seat belt extender to top anchor point

Seats

Heated seats

3 rear headrests

Front head restraints

60/40 split folding rear seat

3 seat bench in 2nd row

Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) feature (active headrest) for seats

Manual height adjustable for driver and front passenger seat

ISOFIX seat fixing (2 fixings on rear outer seats)

Front passenger seat

GR Sports seats with partial leather bolsters

Manually tilt with sliding driver and front passenger seat

Security

Remote central locking + deadlocks

Power passenger window lock

Acoustic vehicle alert system (AVAS)

Alarm with motion sensor and immobilizer

Vanity Mirrors

Driver and passenger sun visor with mirror and light

Wheels

Unique wheel finish with red wheel cap

Wheels - Alloy

18" Black machined face 10 spoke alloy wheels

Wheels - Spare

Tyre repair kit

Electric Vehicle Data

Battery Capacity in kWh: 1.8

Battery Type: Lithium-ion

Emissions - ICE

Standard Euro Emissions: EURO 6

Noise Level dB(A): 68

CO: 0.155

HC: 0.017

NOx: 0.005

HC+NOx: 0.015

Particles: N

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Low: 86

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Medium: 80

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - High: 96

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Extra High: 136

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb: 106

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Low - TEL: 86

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Low - TEH: 93

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Medium - TEL: 80

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Medium - TEH: 87

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - High - TEL: 96

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - High - TEH: 97

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Extra High - TEL: 136

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Extra High - TEH: 136

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb - TEH: 108

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb - TEL: 106

Engine and Drive Train

Cylinders - Bore (mm): 80.5

Cylinders - Stroke (mm): 97.6

CC: 1987

Cylinders: 4

Cylinder Layout: IN-LINE

Number of Valves: 16

Camshaft: DOHC

Fuel Delivery: MULTI POINT FUEL INJECTION

Catalytic Convertor: No

Engine Layout: FRONT TRANSVERSE

Compression Ratio: 14.0:1

Transmission: AUTO

Gears: 1 SPEED

Engine Code: M20A-FXS

Fuel Consumption - ICE

EC Directive 1999/100/EC Applies: 0

WLTP - MPG - Low: 74.3

WLTP - MPG - Medium: 80.7

WLTP - MPG - High: 66

WLTP - MPG - Extra High: 47.1

WLTP - MPG - Comb: 60.1

WLTP - MPG - Low - TEL: 74.3

WLTP - MPG - Low - TEH: 68.1

WLTP - MPG - Medium - TEL: 80.7

WLTP - MPG - Medium - TEH: 73.1

WLTP - MPG - High - TEL: 66

WLTP - MPG - High - TEH: 66

WLTP - MPG - Extra High - TEL: 47.1

WLTP - MPG - Extra High - TEH: 46.8

WLTP - MPG - Comb - TEL: 60.1

WLTP - MPG - Comb - TEH: 58.9

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Low: 3.8

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Medium: 3.5

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - High: 4.3

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Extra High: 6

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb: 4.7

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Low - TEL: 3.8

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Low - TEH: 4.2

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Medium - TEL: 3.5

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Medium - TEH: 3.9

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - High - TEL: 4.3

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - High - TEH: 4.3

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Extra High - TEL: 6

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Extra High - TEH: 6

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb - TEL: 4.7

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb - TEH: 4.8

General

Coin Series: GR Sport[Bi-tone]

Coin Description: Hybrid

Standard manufacturers warranty - Years: 3

Standard manufacturers warranty - Mileage: 60000

Did at least one aspect of this vehicle's safety give cause for concern?: 0

Special Edition: 0

Special Order: 0

Based On ID: N

Insurance Group 1 - 50 Effective January 07: 21E

Service Interval Mileage: 10000

Service Interval Frequency - Months: 12

NCAP Adult Occupant Protection %: N

NCAP Child Occupant Protection %: N

NCAP Pedestrian Protection %: N

NCAP Safety Assist %: N

NCAP Overall Rating - Effective February 09: N

Badge Power: 196

Badge Engine CC: 2.0

Vehicle Homologation Class: M1

Generation Mark: 11

Alternative Fuel Qualifying: No

Performance

0 to 62 mph (secs): 7.4

Top Speed: 111

Engine Power - BHP: 196

Engine Power - PS: No

0 to 60 mph (secs): 0

Engine Power - KW: 144

Engine Power - RPM: 6000

Engine Torque - LBS.FT: 140

Engine Torque - NM: 190

Engine Torque - RPM: 4400

Engine Torque - MKG: 19.4

Test Cycles

Emissions Test Cycle: WLTP

RDE Certification Level: RDE 2

Tyres

Tyre Size Front: 225/40 R18

Tyre Size Rear: 225/40 R18

Tyre Size Spare: TYRE REPAIR KIT

Wheel Type: 18" ALLOY

Wheel Style: 5 DOUBLE SPOKE

Alloys?: No

Space Saver?: 0

Vehicle Dimensions

Length: 4370

Width: 1790

Wheelbase: 2640

Height: 1460

Weight and Capacities

Minimum Kerbweight: 1385

Gross Vehicle Weight: 1910

Fuel Tank Capacity (Litres): 43

Max. Towing Weight - Braked: 750

Max. Towing Weight - Unbraked: 450

Max. Loading Weight: 525

Luggage Capacity (Seats Up): 313

No. of Seats: 5

Max. Roof Load: 55

Luggage Capacity (Seats Down): 1004

Exterior Body Features

Bi-tone Metallic paint

Bi-tone premium paint

Packs

Essential protection pack - Corolla GR Sport

Style Pack - Black - Corolla GR Sport

Paint - Special

Bi-tone metallic - Ash grey/Black

Bi-tone metallic - Obsidian Blue/Black

Bi-tone solid - Pure white/Black

Bi-tone metallic - Juniper blue/Black

Bi-tone metallic - Decuma grey/Black

Bi-tone metallic - Silver/Black

Bi-tone metallic - Super green/Black

Paint - Two Tone

Premium Bi-tone - Platinum white pearl/Black

Premium Bi-tone - Scarlet flare/Black

Premium Bi-tone - Sterling silver/Black

Towing

Detachable towbar - Horizontal 13 pin

Trim - Cloth

Fabric/synthetic leather - Black/grey with red stitching and satin chrome ornament