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Toyota has released more details on the all new Corolla destined for the European market. Not only does the car look more sophisticated than the current model, it grew in all dimensions with a measurement of 4,620mm by 1,775mm by 1,465mm (L x W x H). The car is longer than the all new Mazda 3 sedan. The Euro-spec Corolla will be available with one diesel and four petrol engines. The 1.4-litre turbo diesel develops 89bhp with a peak torque of 205Nm. Transmission option for the oil-burner include a six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed Multi-Mode transmission. The entry-level gasoline engine is a 1.33-litre Dual-VVT-I which generates 98bhp and 128Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission. There are two 1.6-litre engines available for the Europe market – a Dual VVT-I unit with 120bhp and 154Nm of torque as well as a Valvematic version with 130bhp and 160Nm of torque. The lower-powered 1.6-litre comes with a six-speed manual transmission or an optional Multidrive S (CVT) transmission. The range-topper is a 1.8-litre Dual VVT-I unit with 138bhp and 173Nm of torque. The engine is mated exclusively to the Multidrive S transmission. Should we be concerned about the European Corolla? Yes we should, as sources indicate that the Australian and Asean Corolla share the same version as Europe.

Toyota added a sportier Toyota Corolla Altis with a 2.0 liter engine to its Corolla Altis line-up in Thailand, Indonesia and the Philippines in mid 2009. According to a report on The Straits Times dated 13 Feb 2010, it looks like this new variant may make its debut in the Singapore market this year, together with a mid life facelift. The 3ZR-FE powerplant features Dual VVT-i (variable valves for both the intake and exhaust). The 2.0L engine is tuned for different outputs at different markets. For the Thailand market, which is more relevant to us, the dual VVT-I lump pumps out 140HP at 5,600 revs with 189Nm of torque at 4,400 revs. The beefier Altis also benefit from the addition of steering mounted paddle shifters and revised gear ratios. However, it is a pity that the ancient 4 speed auto transmission is still serving the 2L Altis, where its rightful place should be the museum instead. I am glad that Toyota replaced the chunky 4 spoke steering in the regular Altis with a sportier looking 3 spoke version. However, the paddle shifters are too long and skinny in my opinion and they stick out like sore thumbs. I am not sure of how relevant a 2L Altis would be for our market. A buyer looking for a sporty Japanese sedan would probably go for a 2L Civic instead, which is endowed with more adventurous styling. A normal Altis buyer looking for a comfortable 5 seater would probably not care so much about performance. Perhaps, Toyota should consider introducing the 1.6L Dual VVT-I unit for the Asean Altis. This 1.6L powerplant is currently utilised in the European Toyota Auris and produces 124bhp.

Borneo Motors (Singapore) Pte Ltd, a subsidiary of Inchcape Motors Pte Ltd, recently launched the New 2011 Corolla Altis 1.6-Litre with Dual VVT-i. With over 37 million units sold in 143 countries, the world's No. 1 has just got better with enhanced performance, better fuel efficiency and a new bold and stylish look. Together with improved levels of cabin comfort , quietness and engineered with Toyota's DNA of quality, durability and reliability, the new Corolla Altis promises a superior driving experience on the road. With that being said, the writers at sgCarMart could not resist the temptation of trying out the latest Toyota. Truth be told, it looks the same throughout, given the fact that changes were subtle. But it gives a totally different feel. It's more torquey and powerful than its specs suggest. Design The new Corolla Altis continually strives to be the leading sedan even after being one of the top-notch selling vehicles after 10 generations. Refined from inside out, the world's best selling car also comes with bolder and sharper looks. Featuring a new dynamic front grille with double concave lines, as well as sleeker headlamps and bumpers, looking sharp is part of being the world's best. Although Toyota said that with a wider rear and sportier design, the new Corolla Altis is designed to express a dynamic and sporty feel. But we feel it's more of the elegance than sporty as the Altis has a strong resemblance to its elder sibling, Camry. Refined Interior Nonetheless, the new car invites you into its bright and spacious cabin. You'll immediately appreciate its superior comfort and generous legroom, available both in front and rear seats. Convenient features are intelligently integrated into the stylish interior of the New 2011 Corolla Altis. They complement your journey by providing greater ease and functionality, all within your reach and a push of a button. Click here to read more on the 2011 Corolla Altis now http://www.sgcarmart.com/news/review.php?AID=253