2012 Toyota Corolla Ascent Sport review

Garry Fabian has filed this Toyota Corolla Ascent Sport review.

Toyota has released a new variant of the Corolla called the Toyota Corolla Ascent Sport.

The new model comes with added features, including sportier details and more interior equipment, for an extra $1500 over the normal Ascent model.

The Sport gets 16-inch ‘Blade’ alloy wheels, instead of the usual 15-inch steel items on the Ascent, along with lower profile 205/55R16 tyres.

To match the more stylish wheels the Sport model also comes with a subtle body-kit with colour-coded skirt extensions and a front and rear spoiler.

Inside, the Toyota Corolla Ascent Sport comes with a new Bluetooth audio streaming and hands free compatible stereo system including a USB and 3.5mm auxiliary port.

The new stereo can also be controlled via buttons on a new luxury steering wheel.

Other handy features above the normal Ascent model include cruise control, fog lights and a luxury gear knob, as well as the already standard features such as stability control and traction control.

All the other features as well as a long list of standard items, which include remote central locking power windows and mirrors, a good climate control system, quality sound system, ample storage, well laid out instruments just to name the main one, make this a very pleasant car to drive.

The suspension, tuned for Australian conditions provide good handling and passenger comfort.

Safety, as in all Toyota vehicles, is top grade, with ABS, multiple air bags, a well designed “passenger shell”, side impact and front deformation zones provide peace of mind when out on the road.

The model is available in both sedan and hatch layout with either the six-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. It’s also available in eight colours: Glacier White, Graphite, Ink, Shimmer, Silver Pear, Tidal Blue, Tungsten and Wildlife.

NUTS & BOLTS

Engine: 1.8 lt, four-cylinder, producing 100 kW, 175 Nm, 0-100 9.7 seconds

Transmission: six-speed manual, four-speed automatic

Economy: 7.3 lt/100km

Price: $22,490 manual; $24,490 automatic