New engine for new Corolla

TOYOTA’S forthcoming new-generation Corolla will have a cleaner, more efficient and more powerful 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine when it reaches Australia early next year.

According to industry journal Automotive News, the new 1.8 will debut a new family of engines ranging from 1.6 to 3.0 litres in capacity.

Claimed to offer at least a five per cent improvement in fuel efficiency compared to the current engine, the new powerplant will be smaller and lighter than the current engine and use dual variable valve timing and ultra-light pistons.

It is also said to reduce friction by using roller bearings in the rocker arms. To reduce size, Toyota has apparently used a modular front section of the engine, which incorporates the water pump and chain cover.

Smaller-diameter sparkplugs have also been employed to reduce engine size. The engine will be built at Toyota’s Shimoyama engine plant in Miyoshi, near Toyota City in Japan.

The news comes as Toyota Australia this week announced standard safety upgrades for its current Ascent, Ascent Sport and Conquest-grade Corolla hatch and sedan variants, as well as the addition of front power windows for the two Corolla Ascent variants.