Xr-factor: Toyota Corolla hatches sporty new look, spec updates

Toyota has unleashed its new “street-fighter” Corolla Hatch Xr which comes packed with refinements and a sportier look. 

In March 2020, the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) active safety suite was added to the flagship Xr model as part of Toyota’s continued TSS roll-out strategy and now this hot hatch boasts further product enhancements in line with market requests.

Pumped-up kicks for Toyota Corolla Xr

For an sportier stance and added visual drama, the Toyota Corolla Xr now steps out with 18-inch alloy wheels.

Shod with 225/40/R18 tyres, the handling credentials of the acclaimed TNGA-platform are further bolstered, offering a blend of ride quality and road holding.

Aligned to the 18-inch wheels’ package, is the fitment of a space saver spare wheel, while Xs models retain their 16-inch alloy wheels with corresponding 205/55/R16 rubber and full-size spare wheel.

New-generation integrated infotainment

This product update also includes the fitment of a new-generation infotainment system across the board – incorporating Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

This allows users to mirror applications off their mobile phone for seamless connectivity – while providing enhanced telephony and messaging interfaces “on-the-fly”.

Navigation applications such as Google Maps and Waze are natively included and occupants can also access their music libraries and streaming accounts via apps like Apple Music, JOOX, Spotify and SoundCloud. Wireless telephony is supported via Bluetooth with a USB input for additional media options.

Toyota Safety Sense additions

As mentioned, the Xr model is equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) system comprising a whole suite of safety systems including Blind Spot Monitoring. This has been expanded for 2020, with the addition of Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).

RCTA provides audible warnings to the driver in an alley-docking scenario where passing vehicles or obstacles may be out of visual range.

Colour palette

The Corolla Hatch is available in both monotone and striking bi-tone configurations. Graphite Grey and Caribbean Blue have been added to the monotone list while a new iridescent Red (Fierce Red) replaces Scarlet metallic.

Four bi-tone colours are on offer; Satin Silver, Fierce Red, Caribbean Blue and newly added Platinum White Pearl – all combined with a black-metallic roof for maximum visual impact.

Specification and safety

The standard specification level for the Xs-grade is generous with comfort and convenience features such as LED lights with LED DRL, Dual-zone Climate Control, Smart Entry (keyless access), Cruise Control, Power-operated heated exterior mirrors, colour Multi-Information Display (MID), Reverse Camera, one-touch power windows and speed-sensitive door locking.

The Xr variant builds on this foundation and adds Sport front seats in a leather and alcantara combination, power-adjustable driver lumbar support and seat-heating function for driver and passenger. The aforementioned Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) coupled with RCTA completes the Xr package.

An electronic parking brake with integrated Hill-Assist function (HAC) is joined by driver, passenger, side, curtain and driver-knee airbags. Vehicle Stability Control is standard with the full suite of electronic aids present (ABS, EBD, Brake Assist). ISOFIX attachment points are also supplied.

Power and performance

All variants are powered by the 1.2-litre turbocharged 8NR-FTS engine, producing 85kW and 185Nm. Linear power delivery and a broad torque curve are hallmarks of this engine – while offering superb refinement.

Fuel consumption checks in at 6.3 l/100 km for manual transmission models and 6.4 for the CVT equipped versions. CO2 emissions are 146 and 149 g/km respectively.         

A 6-speed manual transmission or ‘10-speed’ Shiftmatic CVT driving the front wheels remain the two drivetrain options (dependent on grade selected).

Model line-up and pricing

• Corolla 1.2T Xs                                   – R369,100
• Corolla 1.2T Xs Bi-Tone                     – R379,800
• Corolla 1.2T Xs CVT                          – R380,600
• Corolla 1.2T Xs CVT Bi-Tone             – R391,300
• Corolla 1.2T XR CVT                          – R425,200
• Corolla 1.2T XR CVT Bi-Tone            – R435,900