2014 Toyota Corolla revealed in the USA
Toyota has revealed details of the new Corolla; one of its most successful models worldwide. In its 47 years of being on the market, the Corolla nameplate has sold almost 40 million units till date, making it one of the bestselling car nameplates in the world. This update was certainly long overdue given that the Corolla was last updated in 2008 in North America.
As far as the performance figures and numbers are concerned there isn't much to look forward to. The only engine Toyota is talking about for the new car is a slightly advanced version of the 1.8-litre Dual VVT-i 2ZR-FE unit that currently does duty in the Corolla Altis. Now dubbed the 2ZR-FAES, the revised engine sports a continuously variable valve lift system (Valvematic) but outputs the same 140PS as the older engine. Transmissions on offer remain unchanged as well and include a 6-speed manual and the Super CVT-i automatic.
The Corolla has received a significant refresh in design terms. The new design based on the Furia concept shown at the Detroit motor show in January this year manages to look sportier and athletic despite having grown in proportions. The new grille is slimmer while the slightly bulging headlamps of the outgoing model have been more neatly integrated into the bonnet. Similar treatment has been dealt out for the rear as well.
Getting back to those increased proportions, the Corolla has grown in wheelbase by 100mm while it is also 16mm wider than before. Toyota says this has helped improve occupant space inside the cabin. The rear seats have moved further back and the front seats have been made slimmer in order to increase knee room even further. The longer wheelbase has also enabled Toyota engineers to route the exhaust pipes below the car rather than in a recess in the floor further improving foot room for rear passengers. The front seats have better thigh support thanks to longer seat bottoms and these also come with a larger range of adjustment to accommodate different sized individuals more efficiently.
Â
Â
The American market will also receive seven airbags, paddle shifters on the automatic option and a multifunction display with navigation. But it is not certain if these features will make it to the Indian market.