The new 2014 Corolla from Toyota promises to be the new standard for the compact sedan category. In April 2013, Ford claimed that its Focus has officially become the "world's best-selling passenger car" with 1,020,410 units sales worldwide in 2012. However, Toyota spokesperson Ryo Sakai quickly challenged Ford's claim, stating that the Japanese automaker has sold 1.16 million Corollas in 2012. Now, Toyota expects the new 2014 Corolla to settle the matter once and for all.
Toyota first introduced the 2014 Corolla to the public in the form of the Corolla Furia Concept unveiled at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show. Strictly a design concept, figures on the Furia are unknown.
That said, a Toyota representative revealed fuel economy figures we should expect in the 2014 Corolla during an interview with AutoGuide at the Detroit show:
"It will hit that magic number. Maybe even a tick or two above," said the Toyota representative, recognizing the 40 mpg figure achieved by the new generation of compacts.
In order to deliver the 40 mpg promise, the 2014 Corolla will feature many fuel efficiency solutions. According to a leaked order guide reported by Car And Driver, the 2014 Corolla will keep the 1.8 liter inline-4 engine and will apply Toyota's Valvematic continuously variable valve timing and lift system, a more advanced system compared to the outgoing engine that only features VVT-i. Car And Driver reports the base models will still offer the laughable four-speed automatic, but a 6-speed manual transmission or a CVT gearbox will be available in more premium 2014 Corolla models. Beyond fuel economy improvements, expect the new Valvematic engine to post 140 hp, marginally higher figures than the outgoing Corolla's mediocre 132 hp and 128 lb.-ft. of torque.
According to Car And Driver, the new 2014 Corolla will feature 3 distinct trim levels-- LE, S, and LS Eco. Carrying the 2014 Corolla to modern levels of refinement, interior improvements will include Softex leather, push-button starting, and navigation. Finally, a trickle-down effect from the wildly successful Scion FR-S/Toyota GT-86 promises the new 2014 Corolla to offer a sporty driving experience as well.
In terms of exterior design, the Corolla features elements influenced by the Corolla Furia Concept as well as Toyota's larger Avalon sedan. The wheelbase is longer and the overhangs are shorter to give the new 2014 Corolla a more athletic stance than the outgoing model.
Inside, the interior cabin boasts significantly improved quality and refinement. Once again heavily borrowing design elements from the Avalon, the 2014 will feature extensive creature comforts as standard. Toyota's Entune infotainment system will be available in premium trim models.
Be sure to check out the images of the new 2014 Toyota Corolla below. Tell us what you think!
