test drives

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By Tim Saunders

A comfortable driving position is vital and it’s almost spot-on in the Toyota Corolla HEV hatchback. The heated black upholstered driver’s seat feels as if it’s sculpted around my body; it is both comfortable and supportive. This of course is especially important and much appreciated when you have a temperamental back like me.
This self-charging hybrid uses both electric and petrol to drive and is Toyota’s fifth generation hybrid system. Simple to drive, it is fitted with an automatic gearbox, and if selecting the B function instead of D, it will automatically click into ev mode whenever the opportunity arises – upto speeds of 54mph (on the motorway) during our test, which is pretty impressive. When ev mode kicks in it is satisfying, especially when crawling through town as you realise that the air pedestrians are breathing is just that little bit cleaner thanks to the Toyota. Reaching faster roads and pushing the accelerator to the floor sees the 1.8-litre Corolla effortlessly propel to the national speed limit. And this is in eco mode, it’s possible to select standard mode, which is sure to be quicker but less efficient. There’s a cruise control, too for the motorway. Over 60mpg is achieved over the course of the test and it covers more than 400 miles on its 43 litre tank. The Corolla easily accommodates five occupants and there is a good size boot. “But it is a bit squashed in the back,” says Heidi (12).
Externally, the ever so slightly frog-like Corolla with its bulging wheel arches is stylish and certainly eye-catching with its two tone paint job; metallic green body and black roof. Rear privacy glass enhances its side profile, which is nothing short of pleasing to the eye. “I think it resembles an owl at the front because of the shape of the headlights,” muses eldest daughter Harriett (14), who has a growing penchant for design.
The multimedia centre is home to an easy to use sat nav complete with English speaking voice, which is welcome when so many are American. There’s a useful reversing camera, too. The system can be operated by voice command that son Henry (9) tries but it doesn’t seem to understand him, which he finds amusing. Its DAB function allows us to listen to our favourite ‘80s radio station.
The black interior is well put together incorporating electric windows, heated front seats and power folding wing mirrors, all of which add a little touch of luxury.
I put it through its paces on jaunts to Highcliffe in Dorset and Farnborough in Hampshire both of which require some motorway driving as well as time on smaller more enjoyable roads. On one occasion we find ourselves stuck behind a very slow and timid learner driver. Of course, it’s important to leave as much room as possible behind such a motorist in case of sudden braking, which I do and am then able to safely overtake up a hill; the Corolla not breaking a sweat.