Toyota has announced pricing and specifications for the new British-built Corolla hatchback and estate models – marking the return of the nameplate to the UK after a 12-year hiatus.
The new hatchback, which will compete with the massively popular VW Golf and Ford Focus in the European market, will be priced from £21,300.
That starting price nets you the most basic of the three powertrain options, and the only pure internal combustion unit in the range – a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol expected to offer around 115hp.
Heading up the range, customers can also choose a 1.8-litre hybrid powertrain lifted from the Prius, which starts from £23,750, or a new 2.0-litre hybrid. This model takes aim at higher-powered rivals with its 180hp output, and starts from £27,550 – though it’s not available in base trim as the other two are. The range currently tops out at £30,340 for a 2.0-litre hybrid estate in Excel trim.
Both hybrids are mated to CVT transmissions, while the 1.2-litre petrol gets a six-speed manual ‘box. Toyota expects 85% of customers to opt for one of the hybrid powertrains.
Customers can also choose from hatchback or Touring Sports estate models – with the latter commanding a £1,270 premium. A saloon model will follow (not built in the UK), with pricing and specification details expected in the new year.
Trim levels begin with Icon and run upwards through Icon Tech, Design and Excel. All models get 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic LED headlights, heated front seats, an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment display, reversing camera and DAB radio.
Icon Tech bolsters this with satnav, a seven-inch instrument display, parking sensors and park assist. Design, as the name suggests, boosts the car’s looks with 17-inch alloy wheels, rear privacy glass and LED fog lights, plus automatic wipers, while top-of-the-range Excel trim brings 18-inch alloy wheels (17-inch on estate models), upgraded LED headlights, keyless entry, sports seats, part-leather upholstery and an optional bi-tone paint finish.
All models also get a raft of safety kit, including adaptive cruise control, pre-collision assist, lane keeping assist, road sign assist and automatic high beam.
