Toyota has revealed its next-generation Corolla sedan.
The sleek new four-door version of the world's best-selling car has made its global debut at Auto Guangzhou in China more than a year ahead of its expected arrival in showrooms.
New and improved
Corolla sedan will share many of the features and technology of the much-anticipated hatch (due for release early in 2020 locally), including an all-new 2.0-litre petrol engine that produces 21% more power than its predecessor yet delivers better fuel efficiency.
Engineers have focused on heightened driving pleasure for the new sedan by delivering a nimble and agile chassis that offers exemplary handling agility and ride comfort along with a distinctive driving personality.
According to Toyota: "A highly rigid TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) platform improves torsional rigidity by 60%, including increased use of ultra-high-strength steels and new structural adhesive technology for enhanced body rigidity and occupant safety.
"The super-rigid structure is complemented by a lower centre of gravity, new multi-link rear suspension and totally revised front suspension to produce a sportier, more engaging drive."
Image: Motorpress
Overall height has been reduced by 20mm.
Sporty and elegant
Wider tracks combine with the unchanged 2700mm wheelbase to improve the Corolla sedan's on-road stance and stability while the 35mm lower bonnet affords excellent forward visibility.
The new sedan matches its hatch sibling with an upscale interior that is both sporty and elegant while delivering characteristic Corolla comfort and durability.
Quality touches in the selection of materials and the precise layout of controls and gauges accentuate the premium look and feel.
Image: Motorpress
Engine
The sedan's 2.0-litre Dynamic Force four-cylinder engine incorporates Toyota's latest D-4S system, raising power to 125kW/200Nm.
The engine features high-pressure direct injection and low-pressure port fuel injection with VVT-iE intelligent variable valve-timing on the intake side and VVT-i on the exhaust. VVT-iE uses an electric motor instead of oil pressure to control the variable valve timing.
Image: Motorpress
A new six-speed intelligent manual gearbox offers downshift rev-matching control for smooth gear changes. Buyers will also be able to specify a new Dynamic-Shift CVT with 10 sequential shift steps and a sport mode. An innovative physical launch gear results in powerful yet smooth off-the-line acceleration.
Advanced safety technologies standard in every Corolla include Toyota's latest pre-collision system, active cruise control, lane trace assist, road-sign assist, automatic high beam, seven airbags and a reversing camera.