In a time when SUVs are the hot automotive ticket, there’s one car that has consistently bucked that trend. First launched in 2014, the Corolla Quest employed the established credentials of the 10th-generation Corolla in a value-focused package that offered the space and comfort of a C-segment sedan at a B-segment price. As a result, the Toyota Corolla Quest sold an astonishing 63 966 units in South Africa.

Sticking to the same proven recipe, the new Corolla Quest is based on the outgoing 11th-generation Corolla platform, continuing the legacy of value-minded motoring with comfort, space and style. The new platform brings with it modernised styling, improved specification levels and enhanced safety features, as well as a new engine across an expanded the line-up.

 

NEW LOOK, INSIDE and OUT

Looking at the exterior, the most noticeable difference is the front fascia. The front bumper has been given an updated treatment (grade dependent), replacing the previous model’s gunmetal accent trims. The standard and Prestige models get a continuous matte-black lower apron, while the Exclusive model boasts partial colour-coding.

The headlight trim matches the radiator grille treatment (matte black vs colour), with the front
fog lights now phased out. At the rear, the number plate garnish has been changed from chrome to
body colour.

On the interior front, Corolla Quest is equipped with three bespoke trim combinations. The standard model makes use of a black and blue combination textile with a fixed rear seat. Prestige variants are equipped with a fabric and leather combination – available in either blue/black or grey with red accents. The range-topping Exclusive features a black leather interior with silver contrast stitching and a 60/40 split rear bench.

 

NEW CHASSIS…

The platform is identical to the 11th-generation Corolla, with a McPherson strut layout in the front and torsion beam design in the rear offering a perfect balance of ride comfort and body control. The torsion beam design also contributes to a large, flat boot space.

Four-wheel disc brakes with ventilated front and solid rear discs provide solid braking performance. Standard models ride on 15-inch steel wheels with 195-65-R15 tyres, whereas the mid- and high-grade Quests roll on 16-inch alloy wheels shod with 205-55-R16 rubber. All models feature a full-size spare wheel.

 

The platform is identical to the 11th-generation Corolla.

 

…AND ENGINE

A global favourite among Toyota ranges, the 1.8-litre mill produces 103kW and 173Nm at 4  000rpm. One of the advantages of the 1.8-litre engine is that, compared to the previous model’s 1.6-litre, the new engine’s torque figure is not only higher, but is also produced 1  200rpm earlier. This offers an enhanced driving experience – one of the key attributes customers identified in the research. Fuel consumption is listed as 7.0L/100km for manual models and 6.3l/100km for models equipped with the CVT option – which is actually better than the outgoing 1.6.

 

SAFETY FEATURES

This is one of the standout features of the range: all Quest models now come with driver, passenger and driver-knee air bags, while the Prestige and Exclusive models receive side air bags too. Vehicle Stability Control with Hill Assist Control, ABS, EBD, Isofix, LED daytime running lights and rear fog lights are standard across the board.

 

Safety is one of the standout features of the range: all Quest models now come with driver, passenger
and driver-knee air bags.

 

NEW COROLLA QUEST RANGE

1.8 Quest

1.8 Quest CVT

1.8 Quest Prestige

1.8 Quest Prestige CVT

1.8 Quest Exclusive

1.8 Quest Exclusive CVT

All Corolla Quests are sold with a three-services/45  000km service plan, with intervals pegged at 12 months/15 000km. A three-year/
100  000km warranty is included.

 

ALSO PART OF THE COROLLA FAMILY

Corolla Sedan

The all-new 12th-generation sedan is based on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) GA-C, and boasts superior driving dynamics and enhanced safety levels.

Corolla 1.8 XS CVT

Corolla 2.0 XR

Corolla 2.0 XR CVT

 
 

Corolla Hatch

Built on the acclaimed TNGA platform known for its excellent ride quality, handling and spaciousness, it’s powered by a flexible and efficient 1.2-litre turbocharged engine.

Corolla Hatch 1.2T Xs 6MT

Corolla Hatch 1.2T Xs CVT

Corolla Hatch 1.2T Xr CVT