Corolla Altis Reloaded
Kuala Lumpur, 13 March 2008 – UMW Toyota launched the all-new Toyota Corolla Altis today at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre today. Dimensionally, the new Altis is slightly larger than the outgoing model, and although it looks smaller, it is the same length as the Honda Civic, and a tad wider.
The body is completely new, and is appealing, but mechanically, Toyota is relying on what they must consider a successful formula, and we have more of the same. The 1.8 litre engine from the outgoing Altis is retained, and if anything, it seems to have lost 6 PS along the way. Replying to a question by the media, Toyota’s Assistant Chief Design engineer, Mr. Yasuo Kamata states through his interpreter that the reduction in horsepower is due to emission regulations (definitely not Malaysian regulations), but he assures us that some tuning has been done to the transmission to improve response. He later let on that the new Altis has an electronic throttle, but of course we know that is necessary for the newly incorporated traction control system that works with the VSC (Vehicle Stability Control) of the new Altis. Other than that, EPS (Electrical Power Steering) replaces the hydraulic power steering.
The new Altis is available with 1.6 or 1.8 litre engine capacity, and there are five variants to choose from, and power is transmitted to the road through a 4-speed automatic transmission. Don’t bother to ask for a manual, because they do not offer it. When asked why the new Altis does not come with a 5-speed automatic (considering that their biggest competitor already has one) Mr. Kamata stated that they have studied the market and are convinced that a 4-speed auto is sufficient.
The suspension system is basically the same; Macpherson struts in the front, and the same torsion beam arrangement at the rear. Again, when asked if Toyota had considered independent rear suspension, the reply was yes, they have considered it, but are of the opinion that the torsion beam system is good enough. The wheels are different though, the engineers having decided to adopt 16-inch wheels for the 1.8 model while the 1.6 has 15’s.
The shape of the new Altis is much like the current Camry, and you might easily mistake one for the other, unless you are very familiar with both the models. Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder, but most of the people were quite impressed with the looks of the new Altis. Inside, the Altis is spacious, and well-appointed. No issues there. The steering wheel s now has tilt and reach adjustment, allowing one to get a comfortable sitting position.
Prices (on the road with insurance), range from RM102,900 to RM120,250, depending on engine capacity, and trim level. As usual, the Corolla Altis will carve out a niche for itself, based on its fresh looks, and also due to the fact that it is a Toyota, which carries along with it, a sold reputation of reliability and durability.
