2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback Lands With Brand New 2.0L Engine

Arriving hot on the heels of the related Toyota Auris for Europe, the new Corolla Hatchback aims to offer buyers the same practicality that made the nameplate a household name, wrapped up in a more attractive, refined package.

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The centerpiece of the new compact commuter is Toyota’s 2.0-liter Dynamic Force four-cylinder, which features variable valve timing and direct and port injection. Toyota promises the new engine will be quieter, more powerful and more efficient than the 1.8-liter engine it replaces, although it has yet to provide horsepower, torque and fuel economy figures. Two transmissions will be on offer: a six-speed manual, or a 10-step CVT automatic with paddle shifters. The CVT features a ‘launch gear’that utilizes a traditional gear drive, as a CVT belt is typically not very efficient when accelerating from a stop.

Compared to the outgoing Corolla iM, the new Corolla Hatchback is 1.2-inches wider, 1.5-inches longer and sits 1.0-inch lower. As a result, cabin occupants will have a bit more space, and will enjoy a center console that’s 1.7-inches wider. Standard interior equipment includes an 8.0-inch infotainment screen with Amazon Alexa and Apple CarPlay, along with Wi-Fi Connect. There’s also an available Entune 3.0 Audio Plus package (standard on XSE models), which adds HD Radio with weather and traffic info, SiriusXM, Entune Connected Services and an 800-watt, 6-speaker JBL audio system.

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It’s 2018, so obviously the new Corolla comes standard with active safety tech. Toyota’s second-generation Safety Sense suite of tech will come on all models and includes Pre-Collision with Pedestrian Detection, Full-Speed Dynamic Range Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning With Steering Assist, Lane Tracing Assist and Automatic High Beams. It also comes with all the typical safety equipment, such as electronic traction control, lane departure warning and seven airbags.

From launch, the 2019 Corolla Hatchback will be available in XE and XSE trim levels. Both models get LED headlights and taillights as standard, along with a chrome-trimmed rear diffuser. The step-up to the XSE model will add 18-inch alloy wheels, LED fog lights, chrome front grille trim and on CVT-equipped models only, adaptive headlights that swivel as the vehicle turns. Available colors from launch will include: Rival Blue, Blizzard Pearl, Silver Metallic, Midnight Black, Galactic Aqua Mica, Scarlet and Oxide Bronze.

Pricing and availability details on the 2019 Toyota Corolla have yet to be announced but will become available closer to its launch date later this year.

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