The new Corolla - feels good inside

The 1^st generation Corolla was known in Japan as 'a car for everyone’. With a peppy 1.1 litre engine, the car quickly captured the hearts of the New Zealand public, rivalling its British competitors with heaters and radios as standard.

Greater comfort, increased body size and an enhanced overall driving experience took cumulative production of the Corolla to 1 million units worldwide by 1970. In New Zealand, the SR Coupe took to the trail and was used considerably in the local rally scene.

The 'ultimate family car' had one eye on economy and the other on space and comfort, whilst also meeting new vehicle emissions targets.

The Corolla was reborn as a luxurious family car with superior overall performance to meet diverse user needs. It was highly praised for its level of quality and performance. By March 1983 the cumulative production had reached 10 million units worldwide.

The 5th generation saw the launch of the famous Hachi Roku (AE86), the last rear wheel drive Corolla to be introduced. Other Corollas in the range, launched at this time, were the first to be offered in front wheel drive and receive the local attention – including a suspension overhaul by Chris Amon and improvements to interior trim, fabrics and colours by Jan Beck. The New Zealand developed front wheel drive GT version was also introduced and included leather seats which was unique in its class. 

The 6th generation Corolla was ahead of its competitors in the New Zealand market, with twin cam 16 valve engines going to volume production and the double overhead cam becoming a common feature.
It swiftly became one of New Zealand’s most popular vehicles.

Treasured by many, and often still seen on the road today in New Zealand, the 7th generation Corolla was built with the fundamental performance attributes of driving, turning and stopping at its heart. MacKenzie orthopedic seats were introduced for added comfort.
Safety features were enhanced with the addition of mechanical airbags.

The 8th generation Corolla saw further enhancements to safety with the introduction of anti-lock braking systems and electronic airbags. Careful consideration was given to environmental aspects including increased recyclability and achieving even cleaner emissions. Globally, Corolla held firmly to the number one position in domestic sales. In 1999 the Corolla became the rally car of the year.

This was the first Corolla to reflect European influences in design. Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i) was introduced as standard across the range, while at the rear the classic MacPherson strut suspension moved to torsion beam-type suspension. This car topped all-time New Zealand sales records for Corolla.

The predecessor to the All New 2013 Corolla saw a complete redesign, with a focus on value for, more features, space and performance, while being longer, wider and (as a hatchback) taller than ever before. The vehicle has Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard and introduced other technical advancements including Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), an MP3 compatible CD/radio audio system and a improved four-speed automatic gearbox with driver-adaptive shift technology. As of 2012, over 39 million Corollas have been sold in over 140 countries worldwide since 1966.

The All New 2013 Corolla has arrived. With its sleek sporty European inspired design and improved handling and performance. Even with an increase in power, fuel efficiency has improved thanks in part to its lower vehicle height, reduced weight and aerodynamic design. Its premium quality finish interior only adds to the experience with increased luggage area and greater ease of access. Packed with safety features and high levels of specification the All New Corolla really does make you feel good inside.