Toyota Corolla XII (E210) 1.8 VVT-i (132 Hp)
The Toyota Corolla XII, also known by its internal code E210, represents the twelfth generation of one of the world’s best-selling automotive nameplates. Launched in 2018 and produced until 2022, this iteration of the Corolla sedan marked a significant evolution in design, engineering, and driving dynamics for the venerable compact car. The Toyota Corolla XII (E210) 1.8 VVT-i (132 Hp) variant, specifically, offered a compelling blend of Toyota’s renowned reliability, practical efficiency, and a more engaging driving experience, catering to a global audience that values dependability and economical operation. Built on the highly adaptable Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, the E210 generation brought a lower center of gravity, increased structural rigidity, and a more sophisticated suspension setup, fundamentally transforming the Corolla’s character from a purely utilitarian commuter to a more refined and enjoyable vehicle.
This specific 1.8 VVT-i model, while perhaps not the most performance-oriented option within the E210 lineup, was a cornerstone offering in many markets, particularly in regions where a balance of power, fuel economy, and purchase cost was paramount. It upheld the Corolla’s legacy as a sensible and dependable choice for individuals and families alike, reinforcing its position as a global automotive icon. Its market role was to provide a robust and efficient sedan experience, leveraging Toyota’s advanced engine technologies to deliver consistent performance and impressive fuel economy figures for its class.
Engine and Performance of the Toyota Corolla XII (E210) 1.8 VVT-i (132 Hp)
At the heart of the Toyota Corolla XII (E210) 1.8 VVT-i (132 Hp) is Toyota’s well-regarded 2ZR-FE engine, a 1.8-liter (1798 cm³) naturally aspirated inline four-cylinder powerplant. This engine is a testament to Toyota’s mastery of internal combustion technology, featuring a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i). This VVT-i system continuously adjusts the timing of the intake and exhaust valves, optimizing engine performance across the RPM range, leading to improved fuel efficiency and a broader torque curve.
The 2ZR-FE engine in this configuration delivers a respectable 132 horsepower at 6000 rpm. While not designed for outright speed, this power output provides ample motivation for daily driving, highway cruising, and urban maneuvers. Torque stands at 128.34 lb.-ft. (174 Nm) available at 4400 rpm, ensuring responsive acceleration from a standstill and sufficient passing power when needed. The engine’s naturally aspirated design contributes to a linear power delivery and a smooth, predictable driving feel, characteristics highly valued by Corolla buyers.
Power is channeled to the front wheels via a precise and engaging 6-speed manual transmission. This gearbox allows drivers to fully exploit the engine’s capabilities, offering a direct connection to the powertrain that enhances the driving experience. The front-wheel-drive architecture, combined with a kerb weight of 2859.4 lbs. (1297 kg), results in a weight-to-power ratio of 9.8 kg/Hp (101.8 Hp/tonne) and a weight-to-torque ratio of 7.5 kg/Nm (134.2 Nm/tonne), indicating a well-balanced and efficient setup for its class.
Fuel economy is a strong suit for this Corolla variant. The official figures show a combined fuel consumption of 30.2 US mpg (7.8 l/100 km), with urban driving yielding 27 US mpg (8.7 l/100 km) and extra-urban driving reaching an impressive 35.1 US mpg (6.7 l/100 km). These figures underscore the E210’s commitment to economical operation, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. The engine also features a particulate filter, highlighting its compliance with modern emission standards.
Design and Features
The Toyota Corolla XII (E210) sedan represents a significant departure from its more conservative predecessors, adopting a more dynamic and contemporary design language. Its sleek, aerodynamic silhouette is complemented by sharp lines and a bold front fascia, contributing to a drag coefficient (Cd) of just 0.30, which aids in both fuel efficiency and reduced wind noise. The sedan body type, with its four doors and comfortable seating for five occupants, maintains the Corolla’s traditional practicality while elevating its aesthetic appeal.
Dimensionally, the E210 sedan measures 183.11 inches (4651 mm) in length, 69.88 inches (1775 mm) in width, and 57.28 inches (1455 mm) in height. A wheelbase of 106.3 inches (2700 mm) contributes to a spacious interior and stable ride quality. The front and rear tracks are 59.8 inches (1519 mm) and 59.88 inches (1521 mm), respectively, providing a solid stance on the road. With a ground clearance of 6.69 inches (170 mm), it offers sufficient clearance for varied road conditions.
Underneath its stylish exterior, the E210 benefits from the TNGA platform, which allows for a more sophisticated chassis setup. The front suspension features an independent McPherson strut design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, ensuring precise steering and comfortable ride characteristics. The rear suspension utilizes an independent torsion suspension, a cost-effective and space-efficient solution that still provides good handling and stability for a compact sedan. Braking performance is handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, augmented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety during emergency stops. The steering system is a rack and pinion type, complemented by electric power steering, which offers light effort at low speeds for easy maneuvering and more feedback at higher speeds. The vehicle is fitted with 17-inch wheel rims, contributing to both its appearance and handling.
Inside, the Corolla E210 offers a well-appointed cabin with thoughtful ergonomics. The trunk provides a practical 13 cu. ft. (368 liters) of cargo space, ample for daily errands or weekend trips. The fuel tank capacity is 13.21 US gallons (50 liters), offering a good cruising range thanks to the engine’s fuel efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Corolla |
| Generation | Corolla XII (E210) |
| Engine Type | 1.8 VVT-i (132 Hp) |
| Production Start | 2018 year |
| Production End | 2022 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Consumption (Urban) | 27 US mpg (8.7 l/100 km) |
| Fuel Consumption (Extra Urban) | 35.1 US mpg (6.7 l/100 km) |
| Fuel Consumption (Combined) | 30.2 US mpg (7.8 l/100 km) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 132 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per liter | 73.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 128.34 lb.-ft. (174 Nm) @ 4400 rpm |
| Engine Layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 2ZR-FE |
| Engine Displacement | 1.8 liters (1798 cm³ / 109.72 cu. in.) |
| Number of Cylinders | 4 |
| Engine Configuration | Inline |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 |
| Engine Aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC-VVT-i |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 4.44 US qt (4.2 l) |
| Coolant Capacity | 5.92 US qt (5.6 l) |
| Engine Systems | Particulate filter |
| Kerb Weight | 2859.4 lbs. (1297 kg) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.8 kg/Hp (101.8 Hp/tonne) |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.5 kg/Nm (134.2 Nm/tonne) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 13 cu. ft. (368 l) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13.21 US gal (50 l) |
| Length | 183.11 in. (4651 mm) |
| Width | 69.88 in. (1775 mm) |
| Height | 57.28 in. (1455 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 106.3 in. (2700 mm) |
| Front Track | 59.8 in. (1519 mm) |
| Rear Track | 59.88 in. (1521 mm) |
| Ride Height (Ground Clearance) | 6.69 in. (170 mm) |
| Drag Coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum Turning Circle | 35.6 ft. (10.85 m) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive (Internal Combustion engine drives front wheels) |
| Drive Wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front Suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear Suspension | Independent torsion suspension |
| Front Brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear Brakes | Disc |
| Assisting Systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering Type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power Steering | Electric Steering |
| Wheel Rims Size | 17 inches |
Legacy and Market Impact
The Toyota Corolla’s legacy is unparalleled in the automotive industry, consistently ranking as one of the best-selling cars of all time. The twelfth generation, the E210, with variants like the Toyota Corolla XII (E210) 1.8 VVT-i (132 Hp), further cemented this reputation. Built on the TNGA platform, this generation marked a pivotal moment for the Corolla, signaling Toyota’s intent to inject more dynamism and driver engagement into its traditionally conservative compact car. The E210 managed to retain the core Corolla values of reliability, practicality, and exceptional fuel economy while significantly improving its styling, handling, and overall refinement.
In its primary markets across North America, Europe, and Asia, the Corolla E210 faced stiff competition from formidable rivals such as the Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, Mazda3, and Nissan Sentra. Despite this crowded segment, the Corolla continued to thrive, largely due to its unwavering reputation for durability and low cost of ownership. The 1.8 VVT-i variant, in particular, was a popular choice for consumers seeking a balance between everyday performance and frugal operation, making it a strong contender against similarly powered models from competitors. Its robust 2ZR-FE engine, a proven design, contributed significantly to its appeal, promising years of trouble-free motoring.
The E210’s global market impact was substantial. It continued to be a volume seller for Toyota, appealing to a broad demographic from first-time car buyers to families looking for a dependable second vehicle. Its improved chassis dynamics, while not transforming it into a sports sedan, certainly made it a more pleasant car to drive than previous generations, appealing to a wider audience without alienating its loyal customer base. The emphasis on advanced safety features, even in more basic trims (though not all detailed in this specific data set), further enhanced its market position as a safe and sensible family car.
The Toyota Corolla XII (E210) 1.8 VVT-i (132 Hp) stands as a testament to Toyota’s continuous evolution of its most important nameplate. It successfully blended modern design and engineering with the enduring qualities that have made the Corolla a global phenomenon: reliability, efficiency, and value. Its production run from 2018 to 2022 saw it continue to dominate sales charts in many regions, reinforcing its status as an industry benchmark for compact sedans and a critical component of Toyota’s global strategy.
