A DYNAMIC VARIANT HAS JOINED THE COROLLA LINE-UP
Toyota is really on it. Within the space of a month, they have launched their third ‘special edition’ model.
The first being the sportier looking Etios Sport, the second being the muscular Hilux Dakar, and now they have released the Corolla Prestige+.
With over 45 million units sold globally, the Corolla is one of Toyota’s bestselling models, and in celebration of the models history, Toyota SA has decided to give the Corolla some extra flair.
Powering the new Prestige+ is the same naturally-aspirated 4-cylinder 1.6-litre motor used in other Corolla 1.6 models, outputting 90kw and 154nm, and is available with either a 6-speed manual or ‘Multidrive’ CVT. The manual variant is capable of 0-100kph in 10.5 seconds, and tops out at 195kph.
Mechanically, it is identical to other Corollas, but aesthetically, it gains a "two-tone" colour scheme, with an Attitude Black roof complementing the Glacier White, Satin Silver or Graphite Grey body. The gloss black treatment is further applied to both upper and lower radiator grilles. The black lower grille extends across the apron of the vehicle, incorporating standard fog lamps and ending in vertical ‘blades’ at the bumper’s edge which also feature gloss black finishing. It rides on stylish directional spoked two-tone 17-inch wheels shod with 215/45 rubber.
The interior scores a new leather/fabric combination, while a Piano Black effect has been applied to the door trim accents (silver in the normal Corolla models) to complete the package and visually tie in with the exterior elements.
The Corolla Prestige+ comes standard with a 3 year/100 000 km warranty and 5 year/90 000 km service plan, and is priced as follows:
Corolla Prestige+ 1.6 6MT – R 318 500
Corolla Prestige+ 1.6 CVT – R 333 000
Also worth a look: the Toyota Everest and the Toyota Corolla Cross: Still King of the Crossover Castle?.
FAQ
Q: What does the Toyota Corolla Prestige+ cost in South Africa?
The Toyota Corolla Prestige+ starts at R318,500 for the 6-speed manual transmission and R333,000 for the CVT automatic, making it a premium addition to the Corolla range with distinctive two-tone styling.
Q: What engine does the Corolla Prestige+ use?
The Corolla Prestige+ uses the same naturally-aspirated 1.6-litre 4-cylinder engine as other Corolla models, producing 90kW and 154Nm of torque with a 0-100kph time of 10.5 seconds in manual form.
Q: What makes the Corolla Prestige+ different from regular Corolla models?
The Prestige+ features a distinctive two-tone colour scheme with an Attitude Black roof, gloss black grilles, stylish 17-inch directional wheels, and upgraded interior materials with piano black trim accents instead of the standard silver.
Q: Does the Toyota Corolla Prestige+ come with a warranty?
Yes, the Corolla Prestige+ includes a comprehensive 3-year/100,000km warranty plus a 5-year/90,000km service plan as standard, giving you proper peace of mind with your purchase.
Q: Is the Toyota Corolla Prestige+ worth buying in South Africa?
The Corolla Prestige+ offers excellent value if you want a reliable sedan with distinctive styling and Toyota's legendary build quality, though the R318,500 starting price puts it in premium territory for what's essentially a cosmetic upgrade.
Should You Buy It?
The Toyota Corolla Prestige+ is a solid buy if you're after a reliable, well-equipped sedan with some visual flair. At R318,500 for the manual and R333,000 for the CVT, you're paying a premium for the two-tone styling and upgraded trim, but you're getting Toyota's bulletproof reliability and comprehensive warranty package. The best value sedan under R350,000 in SA is definitely the Corolla Prestige+ CVT at R333,000, especially considering the included service plan and Toyota's legendary resale values. Just remember you're paying extra for looks rather than performance, as the 90kW engine is adequate but not exactly thrilling.
