Europe’s 2019 Toyota Corolla Sedan Gains Hybrid Version For The First Time

Fresh from the all-new Corolla Sedan’s world debut at the Guangzhou Auto Show, Toyota has now released information on the European-spec model.

The 2019 Corolla Sedan will expand Toyota’s Corolla lineup in Europe to three body styles, adding to the existing Hatchback and Touring Sports. The automaker says the four-door model targets “young professionals looking for more prestigious styling combined with superior onboard space and comfort.”

Design-wise, it looks identical with the Chinese-spec version unveiled hours ago but it features different headlights and taillights than the North American model and the China-only Levin. The European model also features some equipment particularities.

Toyota Corolla Sedan goes the hybrid way for the first time in Europe

More specifically, the engine lineup includes a hybrid, a first for the Corolla Sedan in Europe. It’s the same 1.8-liter self-charging hybrid system that’s also available on the hatchback and wagon. It delivers a system output of 122 PS (120 hp) with a claimed combined fuel economy of 4.3 l/100 km (65.7 mpg UK) on the WLTP test cycle. Corresponding CO2 emissions are 98 g/km.

Depending on driving conditions, Toyota claims the Corolla Sedan Hybrid offers up to 50 percent all-electric drive on the everyday commute.

All-new TNGA GA-C platform coexists with the old 1.6-liter gasoline engine

In addition to the hybrid version, the Corolla Sedan will carry on with the 1.6-liter gasoline engine of its predecessor. The unit delivers 132 PS (130 hp) and it comes with a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional CVT. The WTLP-rated average fuel economy is 6.1 l/100 km (46.3 mpg UK), with CO2 emissions of 139 g/km.

Compared to the previous Corolla Sedan, the shift to the TNGA GA-C platform results in a lower center of gravity, a 60-percent more rigid body shell, and standard multi-link suspension on all models. As a result, Toyota says the 2019 Corolla Sedan offers better handling and stability “without compromising ride and comfort.”

The 2019 Corolla Sedan shares its 2,700mm (106.3in) wheelbase with the wagon version, resulting in a spacious cabin with “ample legroom and high comfort levels for rear seat passengers.”

It packs more technology than ever

Toyota also claims the interior offers “high sensory quality and advanced technology.” New features include wireless phone charging, an 8-inch touchscreen-based infotainment system, 7-inch digital instrument panel, and 10-inch head-up display.

Safety-wise, the 2019 Corolla Sedan offers the Toyota Safety Sense technology as standard in Europe. The pack includes a Pre-Collision System with pedestrian and cyclists detection, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with steering assist, Road Sign Assist, and Automatic High Beam. A newly added function is the Lane Trace Assist, which maintains the vehicle in its lane through subtle steering inputs.

The all-new Toyota Corolla Sedan for Europe will be built in Turkey and will go on sale in the first quarter of 2019.