As Toyota vice-president for sales and marketing Glenn Crompton explains: “Now it’s the turn of Corolla Quest. What makes this newcomer unique, though, is that it’s the only sub-C segment contender.
“And, with prices starting from just R174 900, it’s got winner written all over it.
“Buyers who are looking to upgrade their vehicles, but aren’t in a position to make the financial leap from the B- to C-segment, now finally have a choice.”
The line-up has been restricted to three models with just two trim levels: the standard variant – available in manual or automatic guise – and the Quest Plus, available solely as a manual.
All cars in the range come standard with an immobiliser and alarm, remote central locking, dual front airbags, Isofix anchor points, air-conditioning and rake/reach adjustment for the steering wheel.
The primary differences between the two trim levels are: the alloy wheels for the Plus version versus steel, body-coloured door handles for the Plus model, and the inclusion of an audio system for the Plus, which offers radio/CD playback as well as a USB port and auxiliary jack. (Incidentally the regular model does come pre-wired to accept an audio device and speakers.)
There is a switch to matt black exterior trim for the grille and numberplate garnish as well as the relocation of the side indicator lamps from the side mirrors to the fenders.
Inside, the rear seat now fixed as opposed to asymmetrically split. Other minor revisions that impact on price include the deletion of the overhead console, reading map light and vanity lamp in the sun visor.
Lastly the front and rear cloth door inserts have been replaced with a textured vinyl material.
The sole powerplant is an all-aluminium 1,6-litre in-line four which incidentally also sees service in the new 11th generation Corolla. Maximum power is 90kW and torque is at 154Nm coupled to six-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmissions.
On the safety side there are disc brakes all round, front ventilated and rear solid, controlled by anti-lock braking system incorporating electronic brake-force distribution and emergency brake assist. Sadly there is no electronic stability control.
The new Corolla Quest has a three-year/100 000 km warranty and three-year/45 000 km service plan.
