Sharp pricing for Toyota Corolla Hybrid

Toyota has announced its Corolla Hybrid variant will sit between the SX and ZR hatch variants, priced at $26,990. At that price the petrol/electric Corolla variant is just $1000 more than the smaller Prius C i-Tech and about $8000 less than the base model Prius.

Fitted with technical features to distinguish it from other Corolla variants, the Corolla Hybrid uses the same basic power-sharing drivetrain and battery storage of the Prius, but can't match the fuel economy of the dedicated hybrid. Combined-cycle fuel consumption figures for the two cars give the win to the Prius (3.4L/100km) and runner-up status to the Corolla Hybrid with 4.1L/100km. Like the Prius, the Corolla Hybrid's 1.8-litre engine is Euro 5-compliant and produces 100kW, complemented by the 60kW electric motor. With the car's battery pack located under the rear seat, the Corolla Hybrid retains the 360-litre luggage capacity of the conventional hatches.

In addition to the petrol/electric drivetrain, the Corolla Hybrid also comes with a double-wishbone independent rear suspension system and an electronically-controlled braking system with larger front brake disc rotors (measuring 296mm x 28mm).

The enhanced equipment is drawn from the Corolla ZR and includes dual-zone climate control, auto-levelling bi-LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, keyless entry/ignition, satellite navigation with live traffic updates, Toyota Link connectivity and a 4.2-inch TFT infotainment screen.

Standard safety kit shared with Corolla variants across the range comprises seven airbags, reversing camera, stability and traction control and anti-lock brakes. The Corolla Hybrid rides on 16-inch alloy wheels and is trimmed in black fabric upholstery. Eight colours are on offer.

"Corolla hybrid offers Australian motorists all the advantages of the world's all-time best-selling car and the world's best-selling hybrid technology," said Toyota Australia's executive director sales and marketing Tony Cramb.

"The hybrid version of the popular Corolla represents great value for money with its impressive equipment levels, exceptionally low running costs and the proven performance and fuel-efficiency of Toyota's full hybrid technology," he said.

"With unique features such as its independent rear suspension, Corolla hybrid will also deliver the driving enjoyment, remarkable quietness and smooth operation that will make it an ideal choice for everyday motoring."