2017 Toyota Corolla Altis engine and performance
Mechanically the updated Corolla Altis remains unchanged. It comes powered by a diesel and petrol engine. The diesel is a 1.4 litre four cylinder turbo unit that develops 88 horsepower and 205 Nm of torque. Our test car was the petrol variant which features a 1.8 litre motor developing140 horsepower and 173 Nm of max torque. Toyota offers the option of a 6 speed manual gearbox or a 7 speeed CVT automatic in the petrol and only a 6 speed manual in the diesel. The car we had came with the CVT box.
The petrol engine is very refined and quiet. It is silent during normal driving while performance is strictly adequate at best. This is not a car you would scorch the tarmac with. The CVT box has smooth shifts and the rubber band effect usually associated with these boxes is felt only under hard acceleration. The engine does tend to get loud at higher rpms too. The Altis also comes with paddle shifters and a Sports mode. However don’t expect a real difference in performance when you press that Sports button. The mid range is good and this car is best enjoyed in a relaxed manner with light throttle inputs. Rest assured it will keep a smile on your face.
Ride quality is impressive. The Altis not only soaks in the regular undulations in the road but even larger potholes are handled with aplomb. You dont really feel a nasty thud inside the cabin. High speed stability is good too. The steering is light and predictable and while it can’t be called a handler’s delight, it won’t disappoint.
Safety features include 7 airbags, ABS, EBD, brake assist, hill start assist, vehicle stability control and height adjustable seatbelts.
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