Toyota's Corolla range has long been a favourite of buyers over the years and in 2019 sees new generation arrive on local shores.

The hatch currently sports a completely new and aggressive look, still retaining some of the design DNA from the model it replaces - the Auris.

Worldwide popularity

Under the bonnet, things are simple and economical with the use of a 1.2-litre turbocharged engine producing 85kW and a measly 185Nm.

A six-speed manual transmission is offered in the base model, labelled 1.2T XS. The two other models offered, XS and XR, are sold with a CVT gearbox. 

In terms of specification, all models have LED headlights, 16-inch wheels, keyless entry, reverse camera (blind-spot monitor on the XR), dual climate control and cruise control as standard. 

The XR model has seats covered in a combination of leather and suede. 

The new model will be launched locally early in March. The sedan, which will arrive locally from next year, will receive a stronger 125kW 2.0-litre option.

Toyota will be launching the car to the media in Cape Town this week, so keep your eyes peeled to spot the new Hatch. Wheels24's Janine van der Post will be attending the launch, look out for her driving impression later this week. 

READ: Toyota unveils next-gen SA-bound Corolla sedan

Pricing

According to Toyota South Africa, pricing for the XS model starts from R336 800 with the mid-spec XS CVT model priced at R347 400 and finally the XS tops the range at R367 100.