Toyota Corolla 2020 pricing and spec: Tech and safety upgrades to go with price increase

Toyota has increased the specification of its popular Corolla hatch range to go with a mild price hike for the 2020 model year.

The Corolla’s headline new features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity for its 8.0-inch multimedia screen across the range, as well as a parking-speed AEB system (works from 0-15km/h) and rear cross-traffic alert (RCTA) for the SX and ZR grades.

Finally, the top-spec ZR receives an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat, two-tone paint options similar to the ones available on the C-HR Koba, and a new red exterior colour option.

As promised, the Corolla finally receives Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

The 2020 Corolla continues to be offered in the same three grades as before, with the choice of a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre petrol engine (125kW/200Nm), or a 1.8-litre petrol with a hybridised drivetrain (90kW/190Nm).

All Corollas, apart from the entry-level six-speed manual Ascent Sport (offered only with the 2.0-litre engine) drive the front wheels via an ‘e-CVT’ – a continuously variable transmission with a regular torque-converter-like first gear.

A contrasting black roof and a new red colour are added to the options list for the top-spec ZR.

The updates see the Corolla jump in price by varying amounts each trim level. The year-on-year price difference ranges from $465 for the base Ascent Sport manual to $1765 for the top spec ZR Hybrid auto.

Previous buyers of the twelfth-generation Corolla will be able to augment their media systems with Apple CarPlay and Android auto connectivity, although pricing and the process by which the upgrade occurs are yet to be confirmed by Toyota. The brand tells us to stay tuned for an update on this shortly.

The Corolla continues to be offered with Toyota’s five-year warranty and capped price servicing programs.

Toyota Corolla 2020 price