The all-new 2009 Corolla: building upon a 40-year, global reputation for quality and value with new levels of performance, styling, safety and comfort

(TORONTO, Ontario) - Toyota Canada Inc. today announced the all-new 2009 Toyota Corolla – the Canadian-built compact sedan featuring an all-new body with a lean, muscular shape and more powerful, yet still economical engines. The 2009 Corolla benefits from increased interior space; an all new chassis and suspension system; and the same reputation for quality and value that has made the Corolla one of the most popular vehicles in the world today.

“Toyota offers a full range of vehicles – from subcompacts to full size pick-up trucks – but nothing says Toyota like a Corolla. We’re happy to offer Canadians an all-new Corolla that enhances a global reputation for quality and value established over the past 40 years of Corolla manufacturing, by adding new levels of performance, styling, safety and comfort,” noted Tony Wearing, Managing Director of Toyota Canada Inc. “For the past two decades, the Corolla has been not only a Canadian success story, but a Canadian-made success story, and we’re particularly pleased that Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada in Cambridge, Ontario provided so much input into the design of this, the 10^th generation Corolla.”

The all-new Corolla comes in four models: Corolla CE, Corolla S, Corolla XRS and Corolla LE. Regardless of the model, the 2009 Corolla combines Toyota’s reputation for quality design and engineering with generous performance, comfort, styling, value and safety features*.

Performance:

• A choice of two all-new engines to enhance Corolla’s reputation for fuel efficiency with additional power: a 1.8-litre 4-cylinder that produces up to 132HP @6,000 RPM and up to 128lb-ft of torque @4,400 RPM, or a 2.4-litre 4-cylinder that generates up to 158HP @6,000 RPM and up to 162lb-ft of torque @4,000 RPM;
• A choice of three transmissions to maximize fuel efficiency and performance: a five-speed manual, a four-speed automatic and a five-speed automatic with sequential multi-mode shifter;
• Upgraded front and rear suspension for improved handling, contributing to driving confidence and fun;
• New for the 2009 Corolla is rack and pinion electric power steering that eliminates hydraulic components that need oil, while delivering better cornering performance for superior control.

Comfort and Utility:

• A roomier interior featuring increased head clearance and cabin width and a flat floor for rear leg space, enabling the new Corolla to accommodate up to five passengers in superior comfort;
• Standard-equipped tilt/telescopic steering column enabling all drivers to find a comfortable position behind the wheel;
• Redesigned interior storage spaces that provide superior storage and accessibility for maps, personal electronics, coffee cups/drink bottles, and other in-cabin necessities;
• Standard equipped power remote and foldable exterior mirrors.

Style and Quality:

• A restyled exterior that exudes style and strength and stands out, even on the streets of Turin, one of Italy’s most fashion-conscious cities;
• A new, “5 metre impression” styling standard that appeals to all the senses, thanks to attention to small details that are most apparent as the customer approaches the vehicle, gets into the car, and drives those first few metres away from the curb;
• More demanding manufacturing tolerances improve a vehicle already internationally recognized for its quality of assembly, creating a “class-up” finish;
• New global benchmarks for quality and durability, which adopt the most rigorous standards in the world to ensure the Corolla’s reputation as dependable transportation that retains its value.

Safety:

• All models feature world-class safety performance by adopting the most rigorous safety standards from around the planet;
• A new, impact-absorbing body structure designed to achieve top marks in the compact class from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety;
• All models are standard equipped with 6 air bags, including dual-stage driver and passenger air bags and front and rear side/curtain air bags;
• Available Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control for confident driving;
• An impressive suite of braking technologies, including front ventilated disc brakes, and an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) fitted as standard equipment on all models;
• Three-point seat belts in all positions, including front seatbelt pre-tensioners and force limiters and adjustable “B” pillar shoulder belt anchors;
• Standard equipment includes active headrests for driver and front passenger, designed to reduce whiplash injury caused by rear-end accidents;
• Safety equipment for younger passengers, including child protector rear door locks, thoughtfully placed seatbelt guides which help adjust the shoulder belt to better improve comfort for smaller passengers like children, and anchor points for child restraint seats fitted as standard equipment on all models;
• All models except CE are standard equipped with a direct tire pressure monitoring system to alert the driver to improperly inflated tires.

“The Toyota Corolla is widely regarded as one of the most successful vehicles ever. It’s no easy task to improve one of the planet’s best-selling cars, but we had to try … and I’m confident Canadians will agree that we did,” Mr. Wearing concluded. “The new Corolla is a high-quality compact car that continues to deliver impressive fuel-efficiency, safety and reliability. Meanwhile, the new Corolla also offers features and styling that one typically expects to find in a mid-size vehicle, making it the perfect set of wheels for smart consumers across Canada and around the world.”

The 2009 Toyota Corolla goes on sale in Canada in February, 2008.

2009 TOYOTA COROLLA – PRODUCT DETAIL

CLASS-UP: GOING GLOBAL WITH THE NEW COROLLA

When the 1^st generation Corolla was launched in 1966, it established a defining statement about Toyota: namely, that quality, reliability and durability could be affordable. Since then, Toyota has sold almost 33 million Corolla models from nine generations, in more than 140 countries around the world.

For this, the 10^th generation Corolla, Toyota turned the traditional development model inside-out. Instead of developing a Corolla first for the Japanese market, then adopting the design for other regions, the best ideas from around the world were brought together to create a global standard design. For example, the new Corolla delivers the performance and handling demanded by European customers, while also featuring the roominess, comfort and utility that those in North America desire.

The result is more than just a next generation Corolla – it’s an all-new compact car with the style, performance, comfort, quality, safety and standard features one normally expects to find on a vehicle of a higher class that still retains the same economy and value that have long been Corolla hallmarks. And that’s as it should be, because that first Corolla was the start of a theme that has run through every Toyota – regardless of segment or price range – for the last four decades. Those core values – still evident in the 10^th generation model – are the reason why Corolla has enjoyed such universal success with smart consumers.

MADE FOR CANADA, IN CANADA

The all-new Corolla will be assembled at 16 plants around the world, including Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada Inc. (TMMC) in Cambridge, Ontario. TMMC has been building Corolla models for the North American market for 20 years now and is in fact the second-largest Corolla assembly plant in the world (includes Matrix production).

TMMC’s important position within Toyota means that its team members provided vital input for the design of the 10^th generation Corolla. For example:

• TMMC provided measurements to ensure the spacing between the accelerator the centre console wall, and accelerator and brake pedal was sufficient to accommodate the average Canadian male’s winter boots;
• TMMC provided the Corolla engineering team with samples of hand-held ice scrapers to ensure the door pockets could accommodate them;
• TMMC ensured that pockets for personal electronics such as mobile phones and PDAs could hold the larger devices favoured by North Americans;
• TMMC also ensured that cup-holders would fit the cups from the popular Canadian coffee chain, Tim Hortons.

A COROLLA FOR EVERYONE

Canadians can choose from four Corolla models, ensuring there’s a Corolla for every taste:

• The well-appointed 2009 Toyota CorollaCE is available with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission, and is standard equipped with many comfort and convenience features. These include: a sound system featuring AM/FM/CD with MP3/WMA audio capability, title display, digital signal processor, audio auxiliary input jack, pre-wired satellite radio antenna and four speakers; a climate control system featuring rear seat heater ducts and side window defoggers; front bucket seats with three-way driver and two-way passenger adjustments and Toyota’s Active Headrests with Whiplash Protection; a 60/40 split fold-down rear seat; a generous suite of instrumentation including a tachometer, outside temperature gauge and digital clock; dual vanity mirrors; a three-spoke tilt/telescopic steering wheel; illuminated entry with fadeout dome lamp; smart storage systems, including an upper and lower glove box, driver’s coin case compartment, front and rear cup-holders, door map pockets, coat hooks and a purse hanger; accessory power outlets; an engine immobilizer; foldable, power remote exterior mirrors; front windshield acoustic glass; front and rear splash guards; intermittent wipers; and halogen headlamps.
• The 2009 Toyota CorollaS features a choice of five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission, and builds on the CorollaCE model with additional performance, comfort, convenience and style features. These include: an upgraded sound system featuring two additional speakers and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls; an upgraded climate control system with air conditioning and a cabin air filter; sport fabric on the seats; power door locks with keyless entry and key lockout protection; power windows with driver’s side auto-down function; a leather-wrapped steering wheel; cruise control; a tire pressure monitoring system; stainless steel scuff plates; 16” aluminum alloy wheels with wheel locks; colour-matched side skirts, mirrors and rear spoiler; variable intermittent wipers; and fog lamps.
• The snappy 2009 Toyota CorollaXRS features a choice of five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission with sequential multi-mode shifter and the larger, 2.4-litre engine, that enhances the CorollaS grade with additional high performance and sporty style features. These include: sport-designed front seats; a front strut tower bar; sport-tuned suspension; upgraded electronic gauges featuring Toyota’s Optitron high-visibility technology; metallic dash accents; an overhead console box for additional storage; 17” aluminum alloy wheels with wheel locks; and a power moonroof with sun shade.
• The very well-appointed 2009 Toyota CorollaLE focuses on comfort and convenience, with a four-speed automatic transmission plus many additional features. These include the standard equipment found on the CorollaCE, plus: an upgraded sound system featuring two additional speakers; the Toyota Smart Key system featuring push-button start, keyless entry and key lockout protection; an upgraded climate control system featuring automatic air conditioning and a cabin air filter; power automatic door locks with shifter activation; power windows with driver’s side auto-down function; a well-appointed interior with simulated woodgrain trim, chrome vent knobs, and upgraded electronic gauges featuring Toyota’s Optitron high-visibility technology; cruise control; front seat back pockets for additional storage; a tire pressure monitoring system; 16” aluminum alloy wheels with wheel locks; variable intermittent wipers; and fog lamps.

TWO NEW ENGINES DELIVER ALL NEW POWER AND EFFICIENCY

The 2009 Toyota Corolla features a choice of two all-new engines that deliver more power and efficiency than ever before.

The CorollaCE, CorollaS and CorollaLE are fitted with Toyota’s new 1.8-litre four-cylinder engines featuring Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (Dual VVT-i) on both the intake and exhaust cams. This engine produces up to 132horsepower @6,000 RPM, and up to 128lb-ft of torque @4,400RPM.

The CorollaXRS benefits from a larger, all-new 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine with Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i). This engine generates up to 158horsepower @6,000RPM, and up to 162lb-ft of torque @4,000RPM.

Both engines feature 16 valves, stainless steel exhaust systems and a sound insulating engine cover, and achieve superior output and fuel efficiency.

THREE TRANSMISSIONS FOR EFFICIENCY AND RESPONSIVENESS

The 2009 Corolla comes with a choice of three transmissions, depending on the model:

The CorollaCE and CorollaS are standard-equipped with a five-speed manual transmission with overdrive. Mated to the 1.8-litre engine, this configuration consumes 7.5 litres of fuel per 100 km in the city, and 5.6 litres per 100 km on the highway (6.7L /100 km combined).

The CorollaCE and CorollaS may also be fitted with an available four-speed automatic Electronically Controlled Transaxle transmission with a flex lock-up system, overdrive and overdrive cancel switch. This transmission is fitted as standard equipment on the CorollaLE. Mated to the 1.8-litre engine, this transmission is a lightweight configuration that helps keep consumption to just 7.4 litres of fuel per 100 km in the city, and 5.6 litres per 100 km on the highway (6.6 /100 km combined).

The CorollaXRS is standard-equipped with a five-speed manual transmission with overdrive. With its 2.4-litre engine, this configuration delivers faster acceleration while consuming 9.5 litres of fuel per 100 km in the city, and 6.7 litres per 100 km on the highway (8.2L /100 km combined).

The CorollaXRS may also be fitted with an available five-speed automatic Electronically Controlled Transaxle transmission with overdrive, overdrive cancel switch, and sequential multi-mode shifter. The 2.4-litre engine consumes 9.4 litres of fuel per 100 km in the city, and 6.5 litres per 100 km on the highway (8.1L/100 km combined).

Regardless of engine and transmission combination, all 2009 Toyota Corolla models achieve an atmosphere-friendly emissions rating of Tier 2 Bin 5.

WHEN PERFORMANCE COUNTS: SUSPENSION, HANDLING, STEERING

The all-new Toyota Corolla combines the best motoring designs from around the world, and this is immediately apparent in the Corolla’s European-influenced handling. From the moment one grips the wheel and pulls away from the curb, the new Corolla’s dynamic performance leaves a lasting, satisfying impression.

All models are front wheel drive, and come standard-equipped with an electronically controlled throttle and electric power rack and pinion steering to deliver rapid, controlled and smooth response and handling. The electric power steering is further enhanced through the adoption of a high-output motor.

All Corolla models are fitted with an independent front suspension featuring Macpherson gas struts and a torsion beam rear suspension. Both feature coil springs and stabilizer bars.

The CorollaXRS is further enhanced with a front strut tower bar and a sport-tuned rear suspension, and standard equipped with Toyota’s Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control systems.

SURE-FOOTED FOR DRIVING CONFIDENCE

The CorollaCE features P195/65R15 tires. Larger P205/55R16 tires on 16” aluminum alloy wheels with locks are standard on the CorollaS and CorollaLE models, while the CorollaXRS is fitted with P215/45/R17 tires on 17” aluminum alloy rims with wheel locks for sure-footed driving and an impressive stance.

All models benefit from standard-equipped Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS) with Brake Assist and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). The CorollaCE, CorollaS and CorollaLE are fitted with ventilated disc brakes on the front wheels, and drums at the rear. The more powerful CorollaXRS enjoys additional stopping power thanks to the adoption of disc brakes for the rear wheels. All Corolla models benefit from larger front brakes than on previous generations, and are standard-equipped with high-performance brake pads to maximize braking ability.

SAFETY FEATURES COVER ALL THE BASES

The 2009 Toyota Corolla is equipped with a number of active and passive systems to maximize the safety of driver, passengers, and even others sharing the road.

The new Corolla is equipped with wide view halogen headlamps that increase visibility greatly so drivers can see ahead and avoid potential problems.

All models are standard equipped with driver and front passenger dual stage air bags, plus front and rear side/curtain shield air bags.

The body structure is of an advanced impact absorbing design that targets the top class level in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety standards.

Inside, the Corolla features three-point lap and shoulder belts in all five seating positions, plus front seatbelt pre-tensioners, force-limiters and adjustable “B” pillar shoulder belt anchors for comfort and security.

The driver and front passenger seats are fitted with Toyota’s Active Headrests with Whiplash Protection. These systems automatically move the headrest forward to minimize the possibility of whiplash injuries in the event of a rear-end collision.

Younger passengers are provided for with child protector rear door locks and anchor points for child restraint seats.

“VIBRANT CLARITY” CREATES AN ADVANCED, DYNAMIC, SPORTY IMAGE

The 2009 Toyota Corolla is styled with a dynamic, sporty and innovative image informed by Toyota’s Vibrant Clarity design language and reflecting four months of intense design testing and study in Turin, Italy.

The result is a wider, lower form that blends sweep cuts and prominent surface configurations to achieve a beautiful form and surface appearance. The bottom of the windshield has been moved forward to reinforce a single formed style, while the face emphasizes the Toyota identity with its cab forward design.

Front and rear character lines begin from the pillar, wrap around the fenders and flow to the rear, appearing as strokes of a pen and emphasizing an image of forward movement. Meanwhile, the hood, fender and door profiles project an image of volume.

Over all, the new Corolla’s fit and finish project a new infusion of quality that builds upon the reputation of the previous nine generations to create a sense of presence.

COMFORTABLE AND SMART INTERIOR STYLING

Inside, the 2009 Toyota Corolla adopts a Vibrant Clarity design that pursues spaciousness. From the manner in which the top of the instrument panel wraps around to the package track, to a centre console that seems to float upward and move forward, the interior projects a liberating atmosphere and a sense of high quality.

The new Corolla is roomier than the previous generation, with more shoulder room, leg room and utility space. The result is a smart interior that comfortably accommodates up to five passengers plus luggage.

UTILITY, COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE FEATURES

The 2009 Toyota Corolla comes with many standard and optional utility, comfort and convenience features.

Standard on all models:

• Dual stage driver and front passenger air bags and front and rear side/curtain air bags;
• Front bucket seats with three-way driver and two-way passenger adjustments and Toyota’s Active Headrests with Whiplash Protection;
• A 60/40 split fold-down rear seat;
• Full fabric seat surfaces;
• Dual vanity mirrors;
• A three-spoke steering wheel on a tilting/telescoping column;
• Illuminated entry with fadeout dome lamp;
• Smart storage systems, including an upper and lower glove box, driver’s coin case compartment, front and rear cup-holders, door map pockets, coat hooks and a purse hanger;
• Accessory power outlets;
• An engine immobilizer;
• Foldable, power remote exterior mirrors;
• Front windshield acoustic glass;
• Front and rear splash guards;
• Halogen headlamps.

The 2009 Toyota CorollaCE comes standard equipped with:

• A sound system featuring AM/FM/CD with MP3/WMA audio capability, title display, digital signal processor, audio auxiliary input jack, pre-wired satellite radio antenna and four speakers;
• A climate control system featuring rear seat heater ducts and side window defoggers;
• A generous suite of instrumentation including a tachometer, outside temperature gauge and digital clock;
• 15” wheels with full wheel covers;
• Intermittent wipers.

An available Convenience Package for the 2009 Toyota CorollaCE adds:

• Air conditioning with dust, pollen and air filter;
• Colour-matched door handles;
• Power door locks with keyless entry;
• Power auto door locks with shifter activation (automatic transmission models only);
• A tire pressure monitoring system.

An available Enhanced Convenience Package for the 2009 Toyota CorollaCE adds all items in the Convenience Package, plus:

• Power windows with driver’s side auto-down function;
• Cruise control.

The 2009 Toyota CorollaS comes standard equipped with:

• A sound system featuring AM/FM/CD with MP3/WMA audio capability, title display, digital signal processing, audio auxiliary input jack, pre-wired satellite radio antenna, six speakers and steering wheel-mounted audio controls;
• A climate control system featuring rear seat heater ducts, air conditioning, a cabin air filter and side window defoggers;
• A generous suite of instrumentation including a tachometer, outside temperature gauge and digital clock;
• Sport fabric seat material;
• Power door locks with keyless entry and key lockout protection;
• Power windows with driver’s side auto-down function;
• A leather-wrapped steering wheel;
• Cruise control;
• A tire pressure monitoring system;
• 16” aluminum alloy wheels with wheel locks;
• Colour-matched side skirts, mirrors and rear spoiler;
• Variable intermittent wipers;
• Fog lamps.

An available Moonroof Package for the 2009 Toyota CorollaS adds:

• A power moonroof with sun shade;
• An overhead console box.

The 2009 CorollaXRS comes standard equipped with:

• A sound system featuring AM/FM/CD with MP3/WMA audio capability, title display, digital signal processor, audio auxiliary input jack, pre-wired satellite radio antenna, six speakers and steering wheel-mounted audio controls;
• A climate control system featuring rear seat heater ducts, air conditioning, a cabin air filter and side window defoggers;
• Toyota’s Optitron high visibility electronic gauges, a tachometer, outside temperature gauge and digital clock;
• Front sport seats;
• Sport fabric seat material;
• Power door locks with keyless entry and key lockout protection;
• Power windows with driver’s side auto-down function;
• A leather-wrapped steering wheel;
• Stainless steel scuff plates;
• Metallic dash accents;
• Cruise control;
• A tire pressure monitoring system;
• 17” aluminum alloy wheels with wheel locks;
• Colour-matched side skirts, mirrors and rear spoiler;
• Power moonroof with sun shade;
• Overhead console box;
• Variable intermittent wipers;
• Fog lamps.

The 2009 Toyota CorollaLE comes standard equipped with:

• A sound system featuring AM/FM/CD with MP3/WMA audio capability, title display, digital signal processor, audio auxiliary input jack, pre-wired satellite radio antenna and six speakers;
• A climate control system featuring rear seat heater ducts, automatic air conditioning, a cabin air filter and side window defoggers;
• Toyota’s Optitron high visibility electronic gauges, a tachometer, outside temperature gauge and digital clock;
• Premium cloth seats;
• Power automatic door locks with shifter activation, the Toyota Smart Key system featuring push-button start, keyless entry and key lockout protection;
• Power windows with driver’s side auto-down function;
• Simulated woodgrain trim;
• Chrome vent knobs;
• Cruise control;
• A tire pressure monitoring system;
• 16” aluminum alloy wheels with wheel locks;
• Front seat back pockets;
• Variable intermittent wipers;
• Fog lamps.

An available Moonroof Package for the 2009 Toyota CorollaLE adds:

• An eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat, including power lumbar support;
• A fold-down centre armrest for the rear seats;
• Power moonroof with sun shade;
• Overhead console box.