Toyota Corolla (E140)

Japan

The tenth generation Corolla (E140) was released in Japan on 10 October 2006. The sedan is now known as the Corolla Axio. The Axio name was created from the Greek word "axia", meaning "things with value". The station wagon retains the Corolla Fielder name. The dimensions for the Corolla sold in Japan are smaller than vehicles made for export so as to remain in compliance with Japanese government regulations concerning exterior dimensions and engine displacement. The RunX was replaced by the Toyota Auris and the Spacio was discontinued. The Corolla Rumion, a restyled Scion xB, was introduced later.

The Corolla Axio gets Toyota's latest intelligent parking-assist system. The option costs ¥105,000, or US$879 at current exchange rates. A backup camera monitor is standard. On Japanese models only, G-BOOK, a subscription telematics service, is offered as an option.

The Japan model included a rear-view monitor which displays an image of the area at the rear of the vehicle while backing up to reduce the burden on the driver while parking. Also, the optional Intelligent Parking Assist system supports steering operations when parallel parking and backing into a parking space. Ultrasonic sensors installed on the front of the vehicle detect other parked vehicles and, based on the results, estimate the physical dimensions of a vacant parking space and set the target parking position.

The Corolla Axio introduced a Pre-Crash Safety System that uses millimeter-wave radar. When the millimeter-wave radar detects a high risk of collision, the Pre-Crash Seatbelts improves initial restraint capabilities for passengers while the Pre-Crash Brake Assist System decelerates the vehicle to reduce the collision speed and contribute to less damage induced by collision. The Radar Cruise Control system detects and monitors the preceding vehicle and the lane, maintaining a fixed distance according to the preceding vehicle's speed within a preset range of speed.

In 2011, a total of 70,758 Corolla Axios were sold in Japan.

The Axio GT is a version based on Corolla Axio based on the Axio N2 race car. It includes turbocharged 1NZ-FE engine rated 150 PS (110 kW; 148 bhp) and 196 N·m (145 lb·ft), intercooler, 5-speed manual transmission, TRD Sportivo suspension, 'GT' emblem, leather shift knob, 'TRD Turbo' aero grill, front spoiler, side mud guard, TF4 17-inch wheels with Michelin Pilot Preceda PP2 215/45R17 tires, rear spoiler, drive monitor, grey interior, enhanced clutch cover. The vehicle went on sale in February 2009 in Japan.

The GT TRD and TRD GT Packages are accessory packages for Corolla Axio (GT TRD) and Corolla Fielder (TRD GT).

Team apr participated in GT300 class of Super GT, replacing their MR-S with a midship layout Axio E141 in 2009 season.

The Corolla Axio apr GT (NZE141) is a Corolla Axio race car for 2009 SUPER GT GT300 class race. It includes 3.5L 2GR-FSE V6 engine rated over 300 PS (220 kW; 300 bhp) @ 6800 rpm, HEWLAND 6-speed sequential transmission, Ogura Clutch Triple Plate, AP Braking System, RAYS 18-inch wheels. The apr GT race car weighs roughly at 1100 kg. The vehicle No.74 was unveiled in 2009 Tokyo Auto Salon. Luxel being the highest trim level offers impressive features like Dynamic radar Cruise Control, tiptronic transmition, Bluetooth, Push button start and automatic climate control

In Hong Kong, Corollas sold were based on the Japanese market models. As such, the Corolla was only available with the 1.5-liter 1NZ-FE engine.

The Corolla sold in Hong Kong is made in Japan, although it does vary from the Japanese market model with minor revisions to the front such as the headlamps and air dams. It is available in Luxury and Advantage variants.

E140 wide-body

The international, wide-body version of the E140 Corolla was released from early 2007 and is larger in dimensions, while retaining most of the styling found on the Japanese model. This variant, which uses a wider and longer version of the Axio's platform, has styling similar to that of the Camry's while keeping the Axio's interior. The global debut of the international variant of the new Corolla was staged at the 2007 Beijing Auto Show.

Asia

The Indian version of the Corolla known as the 'Corolla Altis' is assembled in Bidadi near Bangalore. The pre-facelift version (2008–2010) had a 1.8-litre ZZ engine with 132 bhp mated to a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic gearbox. A 1.4-litre 1ND-TV diesel engine unique to India and Spain with 88 bhp mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox debuted in 2010. In 2011, the Altis was face-lifted and the older ZZ engine was replaced by a Modern 1.8 ZR engine producing 140 bhp and was mated to a 6-speed manual like the diesel while a 7-speed CVT gearbox replaced the outdated 4-speed automatic. The diesel was left untouched mechanically and had a different grill to differentiate it from the petrol.

The Corolla Altis was launched in March 2008, and offered in the base J, popular mid-level G, and luxury V trim levels. All were powered by the 1ZZ-FE engine with VVT-i. The J is only available with manual transmission, while the G and V are automatic only. In early 2009, the V's 1.8 1ZZ-FE was replaced with a 2.0 3ZR-FE engine, mated to an automatic transmission.

As with the previous generation, the Corolla Altis has more luxurious features than its western counterparts. The G and V trim levels feature smart entry and start system and automatic climate control.

In July 2010, Toyota facelifted the Corolla Altis with new bumpers, grille, air dams, rear combination lamps, and most importantly the new 1.8-liter 2ZR-FE engine with Dual VVT-i. The 1.8 J was replaced with new 1.8 E as the base trim level. Mated with the new engines, the base but sporty 1.8 E received 6-speed manual transmission, while the 1.8 G and 2.0 V came with 7-speed automatic CVT.

As with Indonesia, the Corolla Altis was launched in March 2008 in Malaysia as well. It was offered in 5 variants – 1.8G, 1.8G Sporty, 1.8E, 1.8E Sporty and 1.6E. All variants were equipped with the 1ZZ-FE engine model with the exception of the 1.6E, that used the 3ZZ-FE engine. Manual transmission for the Corolla Altis was not available in Malaysia. Each of these 5 variants came with 4-speed automatic transmission with Super ECT.

Output for the 1.8 model was 97 kW @6000 rpm with 170 N·m (130 lb·ft)@4200 rpm. Output for the 1.6 model was 80 kW @6000 rpm with 145 N·m (107 lb·ft)@4400 rpm.

On 23 September 2010, a facelifted Corolla Altis was launched where the ZZ engines were replaced with ZR engines. Toyota Malaysia has designated the new variants as 2.0V, 1.8G, 1.8E and 1.6E. All variants' engines are mated with CVT – except the 1.6E remained with Super ECT 4-speed automatic transmission.

Specifications for the facelifted models are:

In Pakistan, the 10th generation of Corolla was launched in August 2008 with 4 trim levels: XLi, GLi, Corolla Altis and Corolla Diesel. The facelift version was launched in April 2011.

The XLi is offered with Toyota's 85 hp, 1.3L 2NZ-FE engine. Pakistan was the only market to use the 2NZ-FE in the Corolla. This model does not have airbags, ABS or power windows. It is only offered in two colours, black and white.

The GLi is offered with the same 1.3L engine as the XLi but it comes equipped with ABS, and power windows. No airbags are offered on this model. Metallic colours are available in the GLi.

The Corolla diesel has 2 trim levels: Corolla 2.0D and the Corolla 2.0D Saloon.

The Corolla 2.0D comes equipped with Toyota's 1989 2C engine which produces 74 hp. The model does not have airbags, ABS or power windows. It is only offered in two colours, black and white.

The Corolla 2.0D Saloon has the same engine as the Corolla 2.0D. The model is only available with a 5-speed manual. The 2.0D Saloon comes equipped with alloy rims, side skirts, optitron speedometer, wooden inserts in the interior and a single driver side airbag. Optional extra on the model is the sunroof.

The facelift for the Corolla was launched on 11 April 2011. Initially only the XLi and GLi trims were available, with modifications to the front and rear lights, front grill, and bumpers, along with a revised interior colour scheme. The 1.8L Corolla Altis with 1ZZ-FE engine was suspended replaced with the 1.6L Corolla Altis with the 1ZR-FE engine producing 124 bhp. The facelift Altis was launched in May 2011. The Altis comes equipped with sideskirts, wooden inserts in the interior, optitron speedometer, 5-spoke alloy rims, fog lamps, power windows, power seats, ABS with EBD, driver side SRS airbag and a 6-speed (forward) manual transmission. Optional on the Altis is a 4-speed super ECT automatic transmission and sunroof.

The GLi is also offered with a 4-speed super ECT automatic transmission and the 1.6L 1ZR-FE engine, the same on the Altis. This version of the GLi is the same as the 1.3L GLi, albeit with the 1.6L engine and the 4-speed ECT automatic transmission, hence making it very similar to the Altis, save for the alloy rims, side skirts and the wooden inserts in the interior.

The tenth generation Corolla was launched as the Corolla Altis in the Philippines on 7 March 2008. It has three variants, the 2.0 and 1.6 V, both with automatic transmission, the 1.6 G, available in both automatic transmission and manual transmission, and the 1.6 E, with manual transmission. The 1.6-liter engine is the same 3ZZ-FE motor used in the 9th generation Corolla, whereas the 2.0-liter variant is powered by the new 3ZR-FE engine equipped with Dual VVT-i technology.

Toyota Motors Philippines upgraded the Corolla Altis in September 2010. The 2.0V is equipped with CVT to replace the 4-speed AT while the manual transmission for the 1.6 variants have 6 gears instead of the previous 5. All variants have a slight increase in power and are equipped with Dual VVT-i technology.

A minor update to the Altis was launched in the later part of 2011. It now has a redesigned front and rear fascia and updated wheel designs. It now has powered windows and central-locking doors as standard. It has 4 variants:

Singapore received the Corolla Altis with the same 1.6-litre 3ZZ-FE and 1.8-litre 1ZZ-FE engines used in the previous generation. Only automatic transmissions were available to meet Euro IV emissions standards. In September 2010, the facelifted model of the Altis was introduced and it is the same as the Thai and Malaysian models utilising the latest Dual VVT-i engines (i.e. 1ZR-FE) for the 1.6-litre version and was upgraded to Euro V emissions standards. The Altis in Singapore are marketed in both 1.6 and 1.8-litre versions just like the former model. The 1.6 model used to be Singapore's No.1 Car for consecutive years.

There is also a Japanese market model (including Axio sedan and Fielder wagon) available under parallel import status (parallel dealers buy the vehicle overseas and do the shipping, custom declaration, vehicle testing & warranty by themselves) from smaller agencies instead of buying from the local dealer. Grades available are the standard X variant and the higher-spec G variant. The Japanese market model, along with the Japanese market Camry and Wish, are used widely as CNG-fitted taxis.

A Japanese-built version of the Corolla sedan is sold in Sri Lanka. The petrol version is offered with the 1.6-litre 3ZZ engine while the diesel version on offer has the aging 2-litre 2C engine. The body shape is similar to the European Corolla.

The Corolla Altis introduced in Thailand, which currently manufactures the Corolla Altis, is offered a total of four grades (J, E, G and V). Thailand is currently the only country that offers all existing grades of the new Altis, whilst export markets are only given a fraction of the Thai range in varying combinations.

The 1.8-litre and 2.0-litre variants for the facelifted Corolla Altis is fitted with Super CVT-i gearbox while the 1.6-litre variants remain using the same 4-speed auto gearbox. Grades available for the Corolla Altis in Thailand varies from the basic 1.6J to the high spec 2.0V Navi variant.

North America

The North American Corolla (E140) has a completely different exterior and interior design than the Japanese Corolla Axio, and instead retains the ASEAN-marketed Corolla Altis design. This Corolla was unveiled on 31 October 2007, at the SEMA show in Las Vegas, started production in November 2007 and became available in USA dealerships in January 2008, as a 2009 model. Only the sedan is sold, although the second-generation Corolla Matrix (commonly referred to as just "Matrix"), which shares the E140 platform and engines, is considered the Corolla's hatchback counterpart.

The new Corolla has been described as a  ⁷⁄₈ Camry, also having styling commonality with its little brother, the Yaris. It has been criticized for its sluggish steering and handling, and for its inexpensive interior materials which some regard a step back from the previous generation. Reviewers note that the Corolla represents a gradual evolution over the previous iteration, without straying too far from the formula as a plain but reliable, fuel-efficient, simple and inexpensive form of transportation.

A total of 5 trim grades (Standard, S, LE, XLE, and XRS) are being offered in the US, Canada has 4 trims (CE, LE, Sport (or S), and XRS). The LE and S have a similar MSRP and are very similar mechanically, the main differences being the S's spoiler, underskirts, and silver interior highlights. The XRS also has a spoiler and underskirts like the S, but it has a larger 2.4 L engine, rear disc brakes, a sport-tuned suspension, and standard stability and traction control.

The base (standard and CE) and S trims are available with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission, while the LE (unlike the previous generation) and XLE are automatic only. The XRS grade is equipped with the 2.4-liter 2AZ-FE I4 engine, the same one used in the Camry, good for 158 hp (118 kW) and 162 lb·ft (220 N·m) of torque, with a choice of five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmissions. The XRS takes 7.9 seconds to 60 mph (97 km/h) and 16.0 seconds for the quarter-mile. All other trims have Toyota's new 1.8-liter 2ZR-FE four-cylinder engine with 132 horsepower (98 kW) and 128 pound-feet (174 N·m) of torque. Corollas with the 1.8-liter engine have an EPA fuel economy rating of 27 mpg city/35 mpg highway, both numbers being lower than those achieved by the previous generation. The 2.4-liter is rated at 22 mpg/30 mpg with the automatic and 22 mpg/29 mpg with the manual. All engines are ULEV II certified. Toyota carried over the 13.2 gal fuel tank from earlier models. In order to help improve fuel economy the new Corolla uses an electric power steering unit instead of a belt driven hydraulic pump.

The Corolla offers technological conveniences such as an auxiliary audio jack for MP3 players, upgraded JBL audio, tilt/telescopic steering wheel, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, a purse hook, and a hands-free Bluetooth mobile phone system. Traction control and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) are standard on the top-of-the-line XRS, and are available as options on the US market LE and XLE models.

In 2009 (2010 US model year vehicles), S models received the Optitron XRS gauges as standard equipment and new 16-inch steel wheel cover designs. XLE models were now available with an optional automatic climate control and a metallic finish to the steering wheel panels. All models now have The Star Safety System includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and Smart Stop Technology brake override system as standard equipment.

In Mexico, the Corolla is offered in 3 trim levels: LE which comes standard with 16-inch steel wheels and wheel covers and with both manual and automatic transmission, then the mid-range XLE now comes with 16-inch alloy wheels and wood inserts in the interior and it is only available with an automatic transmission, and the XRS with the 2.4-liter 2AZ-FE I4 engine. The Mexican-spec Corolla is built at the Cambridge plant in Ontario. Canada, Mexico and the U.S. are the only countries that receive the Corolla from this assembly plant.

For the 2011 MY, the XRS and XLE grades were discontinued for the US market (XRS is still available in Canada). The revised Corolla features new front and rear exterior styling and interior design changes, including a redesigned front grille, front and rear bumpers, new wheel designs, rear chrome garnish, rear combination lamps and trunk lid. The interior adds a metallic trim (LE and S grades), new fabrics and a sport tilt/telescopic steering wheel (S grade). Corolla also features two new colors, Nautical Blue Metallic and Sandy Beach Metallic. New standard features for the LE grade include cruise control, Remote Keyless Entry, two additional audio speakers, and variable intermittent windshield wipers with a mist cycle. The S grade adds standard cruise control, Remote Keyless Entry, 16-inch alloy wheels and a color-keyed rear deck spoiler.

In 2011 (for the 2012 model year), the Corolla received a few feature upgrades, including a new standard audio system with the USB port, Bluetooth and steering audio controls for the US and Canadian LE trim. The US Corolla L received power windows, power door locks and remote keyless entry.

The Corolla comes standard with dual front airbags, front and rear row side curtain airbags and front row side torso airbags. ABS and active headrests are also standard. Beginning in 2009 (2010 model year), Toyota's Vehicle Stability Control and traction control became standard on all trims.

The redesigned Corolla's frontal impact scores declined compared to the previous model in the NHTSA test.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the Corolla its Top Safety Pick accolade. The Corolla earned a Good overall score in the front impact crash test, with Good marks in all six measured front impact categories. And the Corolla received another Good overall score for the side impact crash test. The Corolla nearly earned perfect marks in all nine measured side impact test categories but was given an Average score for rear passenger pelvis/leg protection. However the Corolla earned a Good rating in the side impact structure/safety category which is uncommon in compact car segment.

Certain 2009 to 2010 model year Toyota Corolla (mainly U.S.-built models with VIN# beginning in "1NX" or "2T1") were subject to the 2010 Toyota vehicle recalls regarding floor mat and accelerator pedal replacement.

On 10 October 2012, Toyota issued a recall for 2009 model year Corolla and Matrix, along with 10 other models. The recall notices states that improperly lubricated driver's side power window master switch may develop a “notchy” or sticky feel, and that improper aftermarket lubrication may present a fire hazard. The repair involves lubricating the switch assembly with a special fluorine grease.

South America

The tenth generation Corolla was launched in Brazil on 26 March 2008, and in Argentina in April 2008. It was produced in Brazil with two engines (a 1.6 and a 1.8-liter gasoline engine – gasoline/ethanol in Brazil) and three models: the base XLi, the intermediate XEi and the higher spec SEG.

The 2.0 VVTi Flex was added in March 2010. All versions are based on Corolla Axio sedans, the other versions are not available there.

The Toyota Corolla E150 Made in Japan is sold in Bolivia by Toyota Bolivia. Grey imports allow sale in Bolivia US Spec from USA/Canada/Japan and Corolla Axio from Japan.

The tenth generation Corolla went on sale in Jamaica in October 2007. It is available in 1.5L and 1.8L models. The 1.5L breaks down into two models; the first of which comes without alloy wheels and fog lamps and the other with alloy wheels and fog lamps. The 1.8L model however, comes standard with leather interior and a sunroof. All models feature 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes.

E150 wide-body

The E150 version appears identical to the E140 wide-body, but it has different, more sophisticated underpinnings based on the New MC platform.

Africa

This generation of the Corolla was launched in South Africa in September 2007. Unlike in some countries, Corolla mainly refers to the sedan and not the hatchback, which in South Africa is known as the Toyota Auris. This generation is lower and wider than its predecessor. Toyota South Africa achieved a new all-time sales record for the South African motor industry in October 2007 with the Corolla (including Auris) leading the vehicle sales chart.

Toyota's manufacturing plant in Durban provides the Corolla, Hilux and Fortuner model exports to Europe. The European spec Corolla made in Durban has been awarded a EURO NCAP 5-star rating (applies to all models in the range with knee airbags).

The car is available in the following models: 2.0 Diesel (Exclusive, Advanced); 1.8 Petrol (Exclusive, Exclusive Auto, Advanced); 1.6 Petrol (Advanced, Professional); and 1.4 Petrol (Advanced, Professional).

From the start of June 2014 the Corolla was re-launched as the Corolla Quest, which is a scaled-down model with less features as to target the entry level class B buyers. The Quest has been released with 1.6-litre engine in both 6-speed manual and 5-speed auto transmissions.

Australasia

The new Corolla was introduced to the Australian market on 18 May 2007. It is available in both sedan and hatchback models, with more safety features and higher levels of luxury. The new 1.8-litre 2ZR-FE Dual VVT-i - with variable valve timing for both intake and exhaust camshafts - will be the only engine available for the Australian model, promising better fuel economy than before, it also regains its 100 kW power output. This figure decreased when the old model's 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine dropped to 93 kW of power and 161 Nm of torque (from 171 Nm) in late 2005 to meet the 2006 Euro IV emissions requirements. A new 6-speed manual gearbox is standard, with a 4-speed automatic optional, despite speculation of a 5-speed like the new Honda Civic, a robotized 5-speed optional in the European Auris, or a CVT available in the Japanese model.

All Australian models of Corolla run on the E150 platform, unlike the North American and Asian versions. Therefore, certain chassis parts are not interchangeable.

The new Corolla is available in 5 trim levels for the hatch (Ascent, Ascent sport, Conquest, Levin SX and Levin ZR) and 4 for the sedan (Ascent, Ascent sport, Conquest and Ultima - auto only), with the Corolla wagon discontinued in Australia. The Levin ZR and Ultima grade features HID xenon headlamps, rain sensing wipers, smart entry and start system and automatic climate control. Safety equipment levels has also been improved with ABS brakes and dual airbags standard across the range, whilst side, curtain, driver's knee airbag and stability and traction control is optional on Ascent and Levin SX models and standard on Conquest, Levin ZR and Ultima models from December 2008 production. Other changes from December 2008 production included a revised 6-speed manual transmission across all models except the auto only Ultima sedan that has improved gear ratios and the adoption of smart entry activation on front passenger and back door on Levin ZR model. Although the new hatch is badged Auris name in most world markets, the Corolla name was retained for the Australian market.

Tested at 9.7 seconds to 100 km/h for the manual model, it is more than half a second slower than its predecessor. This is likely on account of its weight, a hefty 1300 kg, which is curiously more than the Civic unlike before wherein it was usually lighter. The automatic also has widely spaced ratios due to the lack of a fifth gear, giving sluggish acceleration, definitely not maximizing the engine potential. The Toyota Corolla received a 4 star ANCAP safety rating for occupant safety and a 3 star rating for pedestrian safety.

Like Australia, all models are marketed under the Corolla nameplate. The range is similar to the Australian range with the same engines and drivetrain, however, models are designated as the base GX and higher spec GLX. What distinguishes the New Zealand range from the rest of the world is the addition of the Corolla Fielder wagon, which is otherwise only seen in the Japan market. With station wagons so popular in New Zealand, demand of the previous model was enough to justify it. New Zealand is the only export market for the wagon. It is marketed as the Corolla GX Wagon with the 1NZ-FE engine. While the hatch and sedan feature the 1.8-litre 2ZR-FE Dual VVT-i, the wagon features the Japanese market 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder, 16-valve, DOHC VVT-i engine. It is specified lower than the GX model hatch and sedan due to the wagon being aimed at the price-conscious fleet market and is priced accordingly. The hatchback gained two diesel motors in June 2008, with both the 1.4 and 2.0 D4-D engines joining the local range, albeit only with manual transmissions. The diesel cars are European spec models built in Japan, the 1.4 version having its motor shipped from Europe to be placed in the New Zealand spec cars.

Toyota was widely criticized by the motoring press for selling the new Corolla in Australia and New Zealand without Electronic Stability Control, which can reduce the chances of a fatal accident by up to 55%. Electronic Stability Control has been available on American versions of the Corolla for several years. The stability control concern was partially addressed with the diesel Corollas offering ESC as standard. The facelift in 2010 saw the addition of this device on all models bar the Japan spec Wagon.

Europe

In Ireland, the E150 series Corolla was launched in December 2006 for sale in January 2007. That made it one of the first countries in the world to receive this model. The saloon version is available along with the Auris (and an Auris van) with a 1.4-litre 97 bhp (71 kW) 4ZZ-FE petrol engine or a 1.4-litre 90 bhp D-4D diesel engine in Terra, Strata, Luna and Sol trim levels (estate is not available). European models are built in Turkey and Japan. Saloon versions are more popular Ireland than the recently launched Auris.

However, British buyers were only offered the Auris, although the Toyota did offer the E150 in Belgium.