PETALING JAYA, Jan 20 — The all-new Toyota Corolla Altis, launched today by UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd is targeted to sell 9,000 units for 2014, to make up approximately nine per cent of the total unit sales of Toyota in Malaysia, based on UMW Toyota’s 2014 target of 100,000 vehicles.

Built on a new platform, the all-new Toyota Corolla Altis is 80mm longer, with an extended wheelbase of 2,700mm, which is 100mm longer than the previous model. Overall width has increased by 16mm. The 2014 Corolla Altis comes with a fresh new body that has hints of Camry and Lexus DNA. The same styling is also evident in the recently launched Vios, a sign of change in the design language towards a ‘younger’ look in the Toyota range in response to the bold designs that have been coming out of the Korean brands in recent times. The improved styling certainly will contribute to renewed interest in the model which has seen a drop in sales numbers in the last two years of its product life cycle.

Order taking started in November 2013, and to date, UMW Toyota Motor reports an order bank of close to 1,000 units – it is highly likely that the sales target of 9,000 for 2014 will be fulfilled.

The interior view of the Corolla Altis. — picture courtesy of Toyota Malaysia

The Toyota Corolla is known to be one of the world’s most popular models with over 40 million units sold in more than 150 countries.  Since it was first introduced in 1966, the Toyota Corolla has undergone 10 model changes. The first model was powered by an 1100 cc push-rod gasoline engine, and was a lot smaller. Through the years, the Corolla has ‘grown’ to roughly twice its original size, with twice the power. In its 76 year history, the Corolla Altis accounts for one in five Toyota vehicles sold. In Malaysia, the total number of units sold since the first Altis was introduced in 2001 exceeds 64,000 units.

Speaking about the all-new Toyota Corolla Altis, Datuk Ismet Suki said “We have taken on a more advanced and dynamic approach in the development of the new Corolla Altis and as such, met all of Toyota’s hallmarks – quality, safety, reliability, performance and excellent value.”

Three variants are available – the base model (1.8E) is equipped with a 1.8 litre engine producing 139PS at 6,400 rpm, and maximum torque of 173Nm peaking at 4,000 rpm, while the other two (2.0 G and 2.0V) are powered by a 2.0 litre engine developing 145PS at 6,200 rpm and 187Nm of torque at 3,600 rpm. The variances between the two engines does not seem to be that significant, but translated to the road, the user will find that the 2.0 engine will ‘pull’ better from low engine speeds, whilst the 1.8 needs to be revved a little harder.

All models are fitted with CVT’s (Constantly Variable Transmissions), a carry-over from the previous model, but with refined tuning to give a driving feel that is more like a normal automatic transmission instead of the ‘rubber band’ effect associated with normal CVT’s.

Prices start at RM114,000 for the 1.8E, to RM123,000 for the 2.0G, the next step up. The top of the range 2.0V retails at RM136,000. An additional package that upgrades the 2.0V from the standard driver and front passenger airbags to a total of seven airbags including side curtain bags, is available.

The all-new Toyota Corolla Altis will be made available in five colours. — Picture courtesy of Toyota Malaysia

The top of the range 2.0V has all the premium features, such as LED headlamps with DRL (Daytime Running Lights), and VSC (Vehicle Stability Control). The other two models do not come with these two options. Similarly, it is only the 2.0V that comes with leather seats, eight way electric controls for the driver seat, with reclining rear seats, smart entry and cruise control.

The all-new Toyota Corolla Altis will be made available in five colours. These include White Pearl CS, Silver Metallic, Attitude Black and two newly introduced colours – Grey Metallic and Dark Brown Mica Metallic.

Speaking at the launch event, UMW Toyota Motor President Datuk Ismet Suki said, “The all-new Toyota Corolla Altis is more than just a mere ‘improvement’. Instead, it takes on a completely new and forward-looking approach. We are truly confident that this new model will prove to be a breath of fresh air to the market.”

“The Corolla has been in the lives of Malaysians for generations. Today we mark the continuation of this heritage. As such, this celebration of the Corolla’s legacy is celebrated together with all Malaysians,” he added.