• Same engines as the hatch
• Hybrid models fitted with automatic gearbox only
• Largest 2.0-litre livens up performance

Hybrid engines

The Corolla Touring Sports is available with a choice of two self-charging hybrid engines. There’s a 1.8-litre and a 2.0-litre, set up to rival mid- and high-power variants of its rivals. On power outputs alone, neither can really be considered ‘entry-level’. Both are paired to a continuously variable transmission which operates smoothly though not without its foibles.

The 1.8-litre is the starting point, and in the Corolla’s 2022 facelift received a significant bump in power. It now produces 140hp, up from 122, with a significantly more powerful electric motor and greater battery output. This boost aimed to improve drivability, and we’re pleased to report it’s done just that.

Though neither Corolla is particularly fun to thrash, the 1.8 now has a similar sensation of effortless torque to a mid-powered diesel engine. This means you no longer need to put your foot down and send the engine revs spiralling just to join a main road. 0-62mph takes a decent 9.1 seconds, though if you’re trying to get close to that you will have to work the CVT hard in order to do so.

The 2.0-litre will appeal to those who want a bit more shove. With a 0-62mph time of 7.7 seconds it’s genuinely quite rapid, though as with the 1.8 it’s much nicer to drive in a more relaxed fashion. Still, an overall output of 196hp compares very favourably with its rivals and could well be of use in this Touring Sports if you plan to fully load it with passengers and luggage.

All the driver’s controls, ranging from the spongy brake pedal and light steering means this is no sporty estate. If, however, you reside in the city or town environment where plenty of manoeuvres are required, this could make life easier.

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What’s it like to drive?

• Stable and safe body control
• Not the sharpest of estates to drive
• Adaptive suspension option for the first time

Like the Ford Focus estate, there’s sophisticated independent rear suspension as standard on all models of the Touring Sports and this helps the Corolla remain composed over bumps.

The relaxed nature of the hybrid engines and driver’s controls will translate into a calmer driving experience as well. The Corolla Touring Sports is hardly a challenger for the Ford Focus in driving enjoyment, but it feels safe and clings onto the road reassuringly in most situations.

It’s comfortable and quiet, though. The rear of the cabin is claimed to benefit from additional sound deadening material but the boot still generates a fair amount of road noise at motorway speeds. Noticeably more so than the hatch.

Otherwise the Toyota Corolla rides well over bumps – top spec Excel models do without the larger 18-inch alloys found on the hatch and stick with smaller 17-inch wheels.