Since its launch in 1966, the Corolla – known for its comfort, reliability and versatility – has sold over 24 million cars, making it the world’s best selling car.  This past success, however, is no excuse for complacency.  "To develop the next generation Corolla was a major challenge for Toyota," says Chief Engineer Takeshi Yoshida.

The state–of–the–art ED Design Centre, in the heart of the Côte d’Azur, was opened in May 2000.  Since then, work on the New Corolla has been the main focus of activity.  It was here, says Yoshida, that the concepts for the new range were born.  The real luxury was that they weren’t limited by past specifications and design: "We started with a blank piece of paper," he says.

Since then thousands of sketches have been pored over, and hundreds of small–scale models have been constructed in order to assess the merits of various ideas.  Extensive market research enabled the highly–skilled designers to prioritise the tastes and concerns of European drivers.  It is well known that in the competitive European market, drivers demand high standards of engineering, technology and design, and it was precisely in order to meet these demands that Toyota opened the new ED Centre.  After all, where could be more inspiring than the south of France?

In the new Corolla range, special attention has been paid to details that were once regarded as insignificant: a whole new team was created just to make sure these details were perfect.  For instance, the sound of a Corolla door closing should never sound tinny; glove boxes, thanks to a slow hydraulic hinge, will never snap shut.   Interiors are not just functional, they are luxurious.  Details such as switches and dials have been enhanced, and some models have Optitron technology – previously only available in Lexus models.

The new range consists of five different models and a choice of six different engines, both petrol and diesel.  All models are fitted with the latest safety features: ABS, Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), and twin front and side airbags.  They all come with a radio–CD sound system, remote central double locking, immobiliser and front electric windows.  They can also be fitted on request with turn by turn satellite navigation incorporating Electronic Traffic Avoidance (ETA), or with a full–colour map DVD satellite navigation system.

Among the new line–up is perhaps the most exciting Corolla ever to be launched into mainstream production: the new T Sport.  Powered by the latest version of the 1.8 litre, VVTL–i (Variable Valve Timing and Lift–intelligent) engine, the T Sport is fitted with Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Optitron dials, Brake Assist, a 6–speed manual gearbox, rear spoiler and 16'' alloy wheels.  The mainstream Hatchback models are also more sporty than their predecessors, benefiting from an increased wheelbase, and a higher and broader body which gives a more roomy interior.

The new line–up includes a compact MPV, the Corolla Verso, a versatile and practical choice for larger families.  It can accommodate five adults in comfort, and has rear seats which can fold, tumble, recline, or be removed completely, as well as having integrated child seats.  The new Corolla Estate, with a choice of two advanced engines, offers excellent performance and fuel economy and is an ideal choice for stylish, long–distance motoring and versatile load–carrying.

But what about the classic Corolla Saloon? Never fear, it’s on its way.  The new Saloon will be launched in Summer 2002. But if you can’t wait until then, there are plenty of Corolla models to choose from right now.