Overview:
Toyota Motor Corporation which has been quite successful with its Corolla has recently launched its new avatar named the Corolla Altis. The Altis is an advanced version of the Corolla sedan and replaces the older generation Corolla. Corolla Altis is the 10th Generation Corolla since its introduction in 1966 and is rolled out with a theme "Happy Corolla for our Planet". The Corolla is still being sold in 140 countries and the car is popular worldwide.
Many countries have already received this exclusive car sometime back and now India joins the line-up. Currently, Toyota plans to sell an average of 2000 Altis models each month in India. The sedan comes with redefined luxury and style and provides a fabulous driving experience. The Altis has larger dimensions when compared to the old Corolla and provides an adorable look.
Toyota Corolla has been one of the premium selling cars in the world with product sales of over 30 million a year. The car manufacturer is hoping that this new sedan will help capture 10% of India's fast-growing car market share. After the launch of the new Corolla Altis, the company is planning to roll out small cars to the Indian car market by 2010.
Powertrain and Performance:
The Altis comes with four variants: 1.8J, 1.8G, 1.8GL, and 1.8VL. It sports a single engine - 1.8-litre petrol, which is more improved and powerful, compared to its pre-decessor. The powerful 1.8L engine comes with Variable Valve Timing with Intelligence (VVT-i) that dispenses 130 bhp@6000 rpm (7 bhp more than the outgoing Corolla) and a maximum torque of 170 Nm @ 4200 rpm. Toyota's VVT-i technology optimizes valve timing by regulating air intake and exhaust timings to deliver potent torque at low and mid-range engine rotations. The engine computes the throttle demand and produces considerable torque during passing, cruising, and idling, keeping the fuel consumption nominal. The VVT-i technology allows for extra smooth acceleration and makes driving the Altis extremely enjoyable.
Power is transferred to the front wheels with a refined 5-speed manual transmission for the 1.8J, 1.8G and 1.8GL variants. A 4-speed automatic transmission with super ECT comes as standard for the top-end 1.8VL variant.
Ergonomically designed interiors and seating ensure a comfortable drive. McPherson Strut front and Torsion beam rear suspension set-up provide improved geometry and eminence to the Altis. The sedan is outfitted with an Electronic Power Steering (EPS) that offers efficient and easy handling at any given speed.
Build and Styling:
The front end of the Altis distinctly resembles the curvaceous designs of the Camry with a sportier demeanor. The new sedan looks elegant and sophisticated with traditional and pervasive style. It has a lower and wider body that offers a stable and more aerodynamic ride. Smooth flowing lines from the front to the rear accentuate a sporty design and feel.
One of the highlights in the new Altis is that it comes with trendy 15-inch, 7-spoke, alloy wheels that ensure a firm grip, better on-road performance, and trendy style. The top-end model of the Corolla Altis (1.8VL) comes with 'first for its segment' features like headlamp washers, high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps, auto dimming inside rear view mirror, 8-way power adjustable driver seats with electric lumber support, and even cruise control.
Toyota cars always have had an attractive cabin; the Altis's cabin is eye-catching, user-friendly, and very spacious. Its ergonomically designed interiors provide driver and passengers with optimum comfort and feel of luxury. Steering wheel-mounted audio controls and MID switch allow driver easy access. Rear seat passengers can easily operate the audio system using a wireless remote.
Features available on the Corolla Altis include power retractable outside rear view mirrors; a spacious trunk; 60/40 split rear folding seats to allow maximum optimization of storage space; In-dash 6-disc CD player with MP3/AM/FM/Aux-in capabilities and six speakers; automatic HID headlamps with retractable washers; and air conditioner with heater.
Some of the standard safety features on the Altis include front ventilated disc brakes and rear solid disc brakes with an anti-lock braking system (ABS); electronic brake-force distribution (EBD); supplemental restraint system (SRS) air bags for driver and passengers; keyless entry with alarm system; and front fog lamps.
