With the 10th Generation Toyota Corolla first launched in Japan in October 2006 and Europe in early 2007, North America is one of the last markets to receive the all-new compact car. However, that doesn`t diminish the importance of the compact car as it has the title of being one of the best selling cars of all time. Making its debut at SEMA the 2009 Toyota Corolla gets five trim levels: Standard, LE, XLE, the sporty S, and the performance-driven XRS.
The three entry models will be equipped with an all-new 1.8-liter engine. The 16-valve, DOHC four-cylinder engine with Dual VVT-i produces 132 hp. A five-speed manual transmission is standard with the 1.8-liter engine, and a four-speed automatic Electronically Controlled Transmission (ECT) will also be available. For those who crave a bit more horsepower, there is the 2.4-liter engine. The 16-valve DOHC engine with VVT-i produces 158 hp. The 2.4-liter engine will be paired with standard five-speed manual and optional five-speed automatic transmissions.
Safety features on the all-new Corolla include standard driver and front passenger airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags and two-row side curtain airbags. Toyota’s Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard on all grades of the Corolla and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with Traction Control (TRAC) is available. All models will be equipped with a heavy duty rear window defogger, AM/FM/CD audio with four speakers, air conditioning with air filter, telescopic steering wheel, 60/40 split folding rear seats, and much more. The sporty S grade will feature standard P205/55R16 tires, front and rear underbody spoilers, front sport seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, black headlamp housing and AM/FM/CD XM audio with six speakers.
The all-new Corolla will reach Toyota dealerships in February 2008.
|