Toyota Corolla Altis 2011 1.8 G

Toyota Corolla Altis 2011 1.8 G

Ever since its global launch in 1966, Corolla has grown by leaps and bounds. The Corolla Altis code named ‘Global One’ rewrites the words dynamic and advanced features along with luxury and style. The Corolla Altis is one of the most comfortable cars that you can buy in its segment. It is so comfortable that it is the obvious choice for most private taxis around the world. Add to it the Toyota reliability and the popularity of the Corolla model goes up ten-fold. The Altis diesel is our choice in spite of its smaller engine size.  Toyota’s ubiquitous Corolla is a car that you buy with your head. However, the 10th-generation Corolla, or the Altis as we know it, did its best to appeal to the heart with a younger, more aggressive design but the drivetrain was left largely untouched. But now, the face-lifted Altis comes with some subtle, yet critical changes, under the skin which makes it more than just a nip-and-tuck job. Cosmetic changes are marginal and Toyota has gently evolved the Corolla’s design. The headlamps have been re-sculpted and the grille (for the petrol models) gets more chrome on it. The new front bumper features a much taller air dam and the foglamp housings have been redesigned too and look all the better for it. Another noticeable touch is the turn indicators, which are now integrated into the side mirrors. The rear bumper looks sportier too with stronger grooves and a more sculpted shape. The rear tail-lights with clear lenses and circular elements look more distinctive as well. And to give it some bling, there’s a wider chrome strip above the numberplate. Though the exterior changes to the new Altis are mild and merely cosmetic, the changes in the powertrain have made a substantial difference. The refreshed Corolla may still not be exciting but better driveability and a smoother engine have made it a much nicer drive. The CVT option is far better than the four-speed torque converter transmission it replaces and should be much more efficient as well. Despite the increase in price, the new Corolla Altis makes a strong case for itself as a competent executive saloon that’s just gotten better.