It also represented a change in naming convention for the South African market, whereby hatchback variants of the Corolla family previously carried the Conquest, RunX and Auris badges.

Exemplary build quality, refined powertrains, fun-to-drive handling and handsome good looks became hallmarks of the 12th-generation Corolla. For 2022, the Corolla Hatch has been injected with more features, new engines, sharpened design plus advanced safety specification - to cement its position as a premium C-segment offering.

New Powertrains

The cornerstone of the Corolla Hatch changepoints is the engine line-up. Prompted by Toyota's expanding NEV focus and European regulatory changes, the previously employed 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine has been discontinued. Taking up residence in the engine bay is either the latest 5th generation 1.8-litre Petrol-Electric Hybrid powertrain or proven 2.0-litre Dynamic Force petrol powerplant.

The 'new gen' hybrid engine offers a 14% increase in Total System Output - up from 90 to 103 kW (+13 kW) while the 2.0-litre gains an extra 1kW and 3 Nm for peak outputs of 126 kW and 203 Nm. Fuel consumption checks in at a modest 3.5 litres per 100 km for the Hybrid and an equally impressive 6.0 for the 2.0-litre. CO2 emissions register at 81 and 137 g/km, respectively.

Both engine options are now exclusively paired with Toyota's self-shifting CVT transmission, helping maximise system efficiency as well as catering to prevailing market trends.

Exterior Design Changes

The bold design language of the Corolla Hatch remains in place with subtle, yet effective enhancements to provide an updated look. The front air dam has been widened while incorporating slick C-shaped fog lamp bezels at the outer edges, helping to create an even wider and more aggressive front façade. Xr models feature bright chrome accent trim to characterise their flagship status.

Revised headlamp clusters feature Bi-LED lighting elements with new larger, J-shaped DRL elements. For the first time, the DRL and turn-signal functions are performed by the same lighting diodes - adding a touch of visual flair.

Moving to the aft view sees a change in the lower bumper diffuser to an all-black design, while chrome accent trim at the corners, echo the front design and adds to the model's sporty yet elegant style.


Exterior Colours

Buyers are spoilt for choice, allowing them to choose from a variety of exterior hues to express their personality. The familiar neutral shades of Glacier White, Satin Silver, Graphite Grey and Platinum White Pearl are joined by the newly added Vibrant Red, Luminous Orange, Attitude Black and Dark Blue Metallics. Xr models can also be ordered in Bi-tone configuration.


Interior Enhancements

New digital Instrument clusters are adopted on both Xs and Xr grades. Xs models feature a 7-Inch display with a large centrally housed speedometer and integrated Multi-Information Display (MID). Xr variants receive an all-new 12.3-inch digital display, stretching the full width of the panel and offering various display options.

A new, combination black and red interior trim alternative, offers buyers additional personalisation alongside a traditional black trim option. Xs models employ fabric while Xr versions feature sport seats clad in a leather and suede combo.

Wheel & Tyre

Xs models roll on 16-inch alloy wheels (shod with 205-55-R16 tyres) while the Xr sports stylish turbine-shaped 18-inch alloy wheels (with 225-40-R18 rubber) in both petrol and hybrid guise. Models shod with 16-inch versions feature a full-size spare wheel while 18-inch alloys employ a space saver spare.

Specification & Features

The interior lighting elements have been upgraded to the LED type, providing excellent illumination and low energy use. A wireless charger has been added to Xr models, supplying modern convenience while additional USB chargers - including Type-C format -have also been added.

Intelligent Infotainment

Xs models feature a new 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with capacitive switchgear for ease of use. Xr models boast a new generation system with Voice Recognition, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and built-in navigation functionality. Occupants can also select from different display modes and designs.

Safety & Security

Another key change is the inclusion of Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 on all Corolla Hatch models. TSS 3.0 represents the latest advancement of Toyota's active safety system - which incorporates semi-autonomous driving aids. Camera sensor resolution is increased, while using a wider-angle lens. The radar sensors have also been enhanced helping to increase the detection range and recognition.

Intelligent Clearance Sonar (ICS) is fitted as standard, offering the driver an enhanced version of Rear Cross Traffic Alert by incorporating automatic braking. Another new feature is Blind Spot Monitor with Safe Exit Assist (SEA) - which uses the camera system to alert occupants of approaching obstacles when exiting the vehicle.

Model Line-up & Pricing

The existing two-grade strategy (Xs and Xr) has been retained, creating a model matrix of 5 variants:

Corolla Hatch 1.8 Xs Hybrid - R 490 900

Corolla Hatch 1.8 Xr Hybrid - R 528 400

Corolla Hatch 1.8 Xr Hybrid Bi-tone - R 538 800

Corolla Hatch 2.0 Xr CVT - R 517 100

Corolla Hatch 2.0 Xr CVT Bi-tone - R 529 000

Peace of Mind

All Corolla Hatch models are sold with a 6-services/90 000 km service plan (intervals set at 15 000 km). Petrol models carry a 3-year/100 000km warranty, while hybrid models hold an 8-year/195 000 km warranty plan. Service and warranty plan extensions can also be purchased from any Toyota dealer (220 outlets).

All Toyota models come equipped with Toyota Connect, including a complimentary 15 Gb in car Wi-Fi allocation, vehicle telematics and enhanced user features via the MyToyota app.