Toyota Corolla 1.6 Elegance Review: Altis The Safe Bet

What we like:

A painless car to own and drive

What we dislike:

Your neighbour probably drives one

The changes to the interior are even more subtle than the exterior tweaks. These subtle tweaks include more silver plastic trim on the centre console and door trim, new backlit Optitron dials that look better than the ones in the old car and an Eco mode indicator on the instrument cluster for more fuel efficient driving.

The centre console features neat looking air-con controls and a touch screen DVD stereo head unit that plays multi format discs. The screen also displays images from the new reversing camera. As previously, the driving position is highly adjustable and comfortable thanks to a reach and rake adjustable steering wheel as well as height adjustments for the seat.

Rear passengers will also enjoy generous knee and legroom thanks to an almost flat floor layout. Headroom is also more than sufficient for the average Asian. Storage spaces are plenty in the Altis - there are big door bins, compartments under the front armrest, cup holders and twin glove boxes on the dash. The boot is also well shaped and voluminous - it can accommodate up to four golf bags. Moreover, the rear seats also split/fold for an even larger load area if required.

The Altis' standard equipment list is reasonably long even in the base 1.6 model. It comes with twin airbags, ABS with EBD, Brake Assist, touch screen DVD stereo with controls on the steering wheel, alarm and immobilizer and so on. As with every Toyota model from Borneo Motors, the new Altis comes with a five-year unlimited mileage warranty for total peace of mind.

The Altis' mid-life facelift is a subtle and mild one to say the least. The look inside and out might somewhat be similar as before but the new engine that offers benefits in both performance and fuel efficiency should further improve the Altis' chances in the competitive Cat A family saloon sector.

Credits: Story and Photos by Raymond Lai