The updated 2017 Toyota Corolla hatch has arrived, following its sedan sibling with the introduction of key new safety options and features. The Corolla hatch now offers the option of a new safety pack as a AUD 750 option on Ascent, Ascent Sport, Hybrid and SX models, and as standard equipment with the top-shelf ZR variant.

The package includes forward collision warning and autonomous emergency braking, along with lane departure alert and automatic high beam. The forward collision avoidance system uses a windscreen-mounted camera and LIDAR to identify and warn, or take action, against a possible crash.


Lane-departure alert likewise uses LIDAR to identify lane markings to trigger warnings if the vehicle begins to leave the lane without the turn signal active. Unlike lane-keeping assist systems, it will not take action to correct the vehicle’s course.

Safety kit already standard with the Corolla range includes seven airbags, whiplash-injury lessening front seats, vehicle stability and traction control, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist and reversing camera.


2017 Toyota Corolla Ascent with safety pack (rear) and SX with safety pack. The Ascent Sport grade can also now be optioned with navigation for an additional AUD 1000.

Power in the Corolla is unchanged, with 140 Hp and 173 Nm provided by a 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine. Fuel consumption is listed at 6.7 L/100km for the six-speed manual, and 6.1 L/100km with the CVT automatic.


The only other change to the range is the retirement of the SX manual, due to poor demand for that variant. This leaves the entry-level Ascent and Ascent Sport as the only models available with a row-your-own transmission.

2017 Toyota Corolla pricing (plus on-road costs)
  •          Ascent (manual) – AUD 20,190
  •          Ascent Sport (manual) – AUD 21,210
  •          SX (CVT) – AUD 26,000
  •          Hybrid (CVT) – AUD 26,990
  •          ZR (CVT) – AUD 30,020