16 November 2018

New Corolla self-charging hybrid unveiled

New Toyota Corolla

The Corolla Saloon had its World Premiere today at the China Motor Show, writes Trish Whelan.

This marks the launch of the 12th generation Corolla Saloon. The Corolla has sold more than 46 million units in over 150 countries since its introduction in 1966.

Now, for the first time, the Corolla Saloon is arriving as a self-charging hybrid and will feature a 1.8 self-charging hybrid powertrain which offers frugal fuel economy of only 3.4L/100km (WLTP 4.3 L/100km) and C02 emissions of 77g/km (WTLP 98g/km), while offering up to 50pc all-electric drive on the everyday commute. 

There will also be a petrol variant; the improved 1.6 petrol variant is available with a six-speed manual transmission. Fuel consumption is 5.8 L/100kms (WLTP 6.1 L/a00km) and emissions are 131g/km (WLTP 139g/km). However, Toyota Ireland predicts that 90pc of the sales in Ireland in 2019 will be in hybrid.

The new Toyota Safety sense active safety package includes  Pre-Collision System with pedestrian detection both day and night, and cyclist detection in daylight hours, a full range Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with steering assist, Road Sign Assist, and Automatic High Beam. 

Self-charging hybrid prices start from €26,820 (excluding delivery and related charges) or from €208 monthly price on PCP. With over 1,500 ‘handraisers’, customers are advised to order now to ensure they get a 191 Corolla Saloon.

There will be two opportunities to see the brand new Corolla Saloon Hybrid before its official arriver to Ireland. On 13 December in the Clayton Hotel in Dublin, the car, along with the rest of the next generation hybrid models, will be available to view.

Then in January 2019, all Toyota dealerships across Ireland will host the new models as part of the 2019 Hybrid Roadshow. Toyota is asking customers to check what date in January the Roadshow will arrive at their local dealer. Final cars for registration will arrive from mid-February 2019. 

Toyota Ireland expect 80pc of their passenger car mix will be self-charging hybrid in 2019.