Altis broadens lineup

Toyota Corolla Altis 2.0L

The more, the merrier. This year is shaping up to be another exciting one for the automotive industry. Brushing aside dire forecasts amid the global financial crisis, several car makers have rolled out new variants to spur buying. Premium car distributors CATS Motors and Lexus Manila set the tone by unveiling luxury brands. Soon, Honda Cars Philippines and Toyota Motor Philippines followed suit. Last week, Toyota fueled competition by launching the 2.0-liter Corolla Altis. The newest addition to the Altis lineup is the top-of-the-line variant equipped with a dual VVT-i engine, paddle shift, smart entry with push-start system and an array of comfort and safety features that puts it a notch above its class. The 2.0L Altis is offered at P1.1 million.

The launch of the 2.0L Altis follows the successful introduction of the 10th Generation Corolla with 1.8-liter and 1.6-liter variants in January last year. Toyota sold a total of 4,610 units on its first year. As the 2.0-liter variant revitalizes the entire lineup, it is expected to boost Corolla sales and Toyota’s overall passenger car performance.

The 2.0L Corolla features a sporty honey-comb grille. But on the inside, superior technology became the focus of its major improvements, the highlight of which is the Dual Variable Valve Timing-intelligent engine, a technology so far only available in the top-of-the-line Camry 3.5Q V6. This new 3ZR-FE 4-cylinder, in-line 16 valve DOHC 2.0-liter engine provides maximum output of 104 kW at 5,600 rpm and maximum torque of 189 Nm per 4,400 rpm. What makes the dual VVT-i engine different from single VVT-i available in other Toyota passenger cars is that variable timing is applied to both intake and exhaust valves, whereas the normal VVT-i only applies to intake valves. The combination of 2.0-liter displacement and Dual VVT-i technology results in five major advantages: Balanced output and better performance; high fuel efficiency and cleaner emissions; better control in terms of shifting, steering responsiveness and stability; and improved safety.

Balanced output is achieved as valve timing is highly optimized according to the engine’s operating conditions. This allows for higher torque in low to mid rpm ranges and increased output at high rpm, resulting in superior acceleration performance. With a flat torque quickly generated, the new Altis accelerates smoothly and more efficiently. With great acceleration from a standing start, the driver can easily maneuver the vehicle quickly and safely.

Fuel efficiency is maximized and emission gases are reduced as the size and weight of the valve train and pistons were reduced to lessen friction of parts.

Intelligent transmission provides smoother shifting, equipped with a paddle shift for better manual transmission-like shifting when in sequential mode. The paddle shift likewise enhances safety as drivers keep both hands on the steering wheel, intensifying control and focus. On the other hand, the bigger body and more rigid suspension provide increased stability, better steering response, improved control and safer drive.

Advanced engine operation is provided with the adoption of a push-start engine switch, which is the first in its class. This same premium feature is only available at Toyota’s other high-end models such as the Camry, Land Cruiser 200 and the hybrid car, Prius.