Sharper Prices for Toyota Corolla

by Brad Leach under News on 18 Jun 2010 03:19:28 PM18 Jun 2010

Sharper Prices for Toyota Corolla 2

Toyota has wheeled-out a revised Corolla Sedan lineup with a new 2.0-litre engine, styling changes and extra equipment, but most prices have dropped and the entry-level Ascent model now starts at $20,990. In fact four of the five Corolla sedan models have reduced prices, despite the extra kit.

The luxury grade Ultima model secures the new 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine – code-numbered 3ZR-FE. Maximum power is 102kW at 5,600rpm and peak torque is 189Nm at 4,400rpm.

Ultima also gains a reversing camera - with its image displayed on a 3.3-inch LCD screen in the interior rear-view mirror - plus Xenon headlights and a rear spoiler.

Across the range are significant exterior changes including new bumpers, radiator grille, headlights (darkened ‘smoke’ finish on Conquest and Ultima models), fog lights, rear combination lights, mirrors and trim. There are two new colours – Blue Steel and Blue Metallic (Ultima model only).

Conquest models boast new five-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels and Ultima gets new blade-design alloys.

Toyota says the styling change deliver a thinner, lower, more sporty look.

Inside are new audios, instruments and steering wheels for all models. Entry-level Ascent has a single CD player while Conquest and Ultima have a six CD system with a 4.3-inch thin-film transistor screen.

All audios have MP3/WMA compatibility, USB and 3.5mm input jacks, Bluetooth hands-free telephone connectivity, Bluetooth audio streaming and i-Pod control via the USB jack.

Ascent and Conquest variants receive new seat fabric and there is some extra chrome trim finishes to provide a more upscale interior dynamic.

Ascent models have two option packs – an enhanced safety kit with front-seat side airbags, side curtain shield airbags and a drivers’ knee airbag and a cruise pack with cruise control, premium flat bottom steering wheel with audio controls and premium gear shift and park brake levers.

Conquest and Ultima come standard with seven airbags and all models have vehicle stability control and traction control.

The range is:

Ascent manual - $20,990
Ascent automatic - $22,990
Conquest manual - $24,490
Conquest automatic - $26,490
Ultima (auto only) - $31,490.

The options are:

Enhanced safety (Ascent only) - $750
Cruise pack (Ascent only) - $750
Moonroof (Ultima only) - $1,500
Metallic paint - $350.