Toyota has introduced the new Toyota Corolla and Auris Touring Sports to Ireland. It's the 11th generation of the Corolla and prices start from €20,995. The entry-level variant is powered by a 1.3-litre VVT-i petrol engine that produces 99hp with emissions of 129g/km. The diesel alternative is a 1.4-litre D-4D turbo diesel unit with 90hp and an impressive fuel consumption of just 3.8l/100km (74.3mpg). It's likely that the diesel variant in the mid-level Aura grade (€23,730) will account for the majority of Corolla sales.
Taking it for a brief test we found the diesel engine offers adequate performance and is mated to a six-speed manual transmission. The Corolla is never going to really excite the driver, but it offers uncomplicated motoring and is practical and undemanding to drive. There’s increased space for all occupants as this new Corolla is 15mm wider and 80mm longer than its predecessor.
Toyota’s other new arrival is the new Auris Touring Sports, an estate variant of the Auris hatchback. Like the regular Auris it’s offered with a hybrid powertrain, becoming the first full hybrid estate on sale in the competitive small family segment. Prices start at €21,970 for the regular 1.4-litre D-4D diesel variant, which produces 90bhp and will return a combined fuel consumption of 4.2L/100km (67.3mpg). The Hybrid version, with its 1.8-litre VVT-i petrol engine and electric motor has emissions of just 92g/km and is priced at €27,435.
Finally it’s a bellwether day for the brand’s commercial division with the end of the iconic Hiace moniker. It’s being replaced with the new Proace model, with prices starting at €20,450 for the 1.6-litre D-4D diesel short wheelbase GL version.