Japanese market Corollas to get improved safety features

Toyota is to launch a sportier Corolla Fielder and a more modern Corolla Axio in Japan on April 1. In addition to interior and exterior styling changes and improved fuel efficiency, the redesigned models will be the first to feature the new Toyota Safety Sense C package.

As part of a multi-faceted approach to active safety, the Toyota Safety Sense C package uses both a laser radar unit and a camera to achieve high reliability and performance. The package integrates safety technologies like Pre-collision System (PCS), Lane Departure Alert (LDA) and Automatic High Beam (AHB). 

A special function has been added that alerts drivers when preceding vehicles have moved forward while waiting at a traffic signal. A drive-start control function helps prevent sudden starts if the accelerator is pressed when the gear-stick has been set erroneously. In addition, a function that automatically activates hazard lights when brakes are suddenly applied is standard on all vehicles.

The Corolla models will also have revamped interior and exterior designs. The Corolla Fielder has a sportier design, while the Corolla Axio has a more modern design. In addition, the popular W×B grade (featuring a white and black color scheme) has been added to the Corolla Fielder lineup as a special edition.

Drawing on technology honed through the development of hybrid vehicles, the newly developed 1.5-litre 2NR-FKE engine in the two-wheel drive and CVT models achieves fuel efficiency of 23.4km/L (23.0km/L for the Corolla Fielder) and similarly high thermal efficiency. Furthermore, the Stop & Start System idling-stop function is standard on all grades.

The efficiency of the hybrid models has been further enhanced, resulting in a fuel efficiency of 33.8km/L. Welcab versions (specially equipped vehicles with factory-installed features for the disabled and elderly) offer the same improvements as the base models.

Toyota has set a target of selling 6,000 Corolla Fielder units and 3,000 Corolla Axio units per month in Japan.