GENERATION X

Udaya Francis explains the special features that elevate the new Corolla to the luxury class.

There are certain sequels that are guaranteed to whip up diehard fans into an enthusiastic frenzy. The Star Wars films come to mind and we can't forget the hysteria surrounding the Harry Potter books. The Corolla is, perhaps, the automotive world's equivalent of these much-hyped sequels. Eschewing the flashiness and overt character of more ostentatious vehicles, the Corolla has been quietly winning over discerning motorists with its unique blend of comfort, economy and reliability. From Cairo to Colombo, the Corolla's durability and owner-focused sophistication has made it one of the most popular cars in the world. Indeed, over 30 million Corollas have been sold since the first model emerged from Japan's Takaoka Plant in 1966, enabling the Corolla to earn a place in the Guinness Book of World Records!

"This is the 10th generation of the Toyota Corolla," explains Toyota Lanka Sales Manager Udaya Francis. "This is far superior to previous versions and is more a luxury car than a mid-range sedan," he explains. Francis points to the car's spacious and beautifully detailed interior as one of the key improvements. The use of luxurious materials and beautiful detailing impart an upmarket ambience. The exterior is an evolution of the Corolla lineage, combining attractive lines with a winning dose of style.

However, the improvements are more than skin-deep. The extensive use of anti-corrosive steel sheeting helps maintain the Corolla's legendary reliability. Extensive soundproofing gives the car a Lexus-like refinement on the move. A slew of features such as keyless entry, tilt and telescopic steering, ventilated disc brakes and airbags ensure that the Corolla remains at the cutting edge of the market.

Unfortunately, you can't buy one just yet. "We are hoping to offer the car to all buyers soon (having previously catered to government servants availing themselves of the duty-free scheme). We are having problems getting units from Toyota Japan due to worldwide demand," reveals Francis.

"For the government scheme, we had two models – the 1600cc petrol automatic, the Toyota Corolla LX, which carries an all-inclusive price tag of Rs. 2.6 million. We also have a 2000cc diesel manual version - which, under the permit scheme, will cost Rs. 3.7 million. This is not available ex-stock," he adds.

Francis elaborates: "For ex-stock buyers, we are launching three models. The top-of-the-range Toyota Corolla GLI, which comes with all features, is priced at Rs. 5.9 million; then, we have the Toyota LX, at almost Rs. 5.3 million; and finally, the Toyota Corolla five-speed manual, which we are marketing at Rs. 5.1 million."

Interestingly, the Corolla - which is the best-selling Japanese car in Sri Lanka - continues Toyota's love affair with the letter "C"; joining models such as the Celica, Carina, Corsa, Camry and Crown. It is also a continuation of the Toyota ethos of reliability and quality, combined with an extra-dose of comfort, refinement and luxury. For Toyota fans and car enthusiasts, the newest instalment of the Toyota Corolla is a continuation of a 30-year affair, cementing the car's position at the vanguard of executive passenger vehicles.

Suresh Ginige
