New Toyota Corolla Altis India first drive, review

“Reborn” proclaimed Toyota at the 2011 Tokyo motor show. Take one look at the aggressive design of the new Corolla and it is apparent that the infusion of fun, excitement and emotion at Toyota is well underway. 

 

Just a glance at the new Toyota and you will wonder whether this really is a Corolla. Its Lexus-like looks are very striking and handsome. Its muscular proportions and cuts and creases give it a very stylish yet athletic look. A longer wheelbase makes the car look low and hunkered down. The low bonnet, rising window line and sharp-cut ‘C’ pillar carry the sporty theme further. And there are aggressive details wherever you look, like the large airdam, the aggressive upswept headlights and the ‘pushed-out’ wheel arches. It’s also fair to say the new Corolla doesn’t have a bad angle; this car looks stunning in profile and from the rear too.

 

 

The Corolla has changed under the skin as well. Although it is based on the previous generation Corolla, it has undergone far-reaching alterations. The new chassis is considerably stiffer, the centre of gravity of the car has been lowered and also uses a 100mm longer wheelbase. The longer wheelbase translates almost entirely into extra leg room at the rear. You get 92mm more knee room than in the earlier Corolla. The backseat continues to impress with excellent thigh support and a supportively shaped backrest. Now, there is also the option of reclining the seat back angle for a more relaxed posture. The absence of a central tunnel makes sitting three abreast comfortable.