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Toyota Corolla 2.0 VVT-i Hybrid Excel 5dr CVT [JBL] Review

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In many ways, this is the best version of the Corolla, because its 177bhp 2.0-litre hybrid is much punchier and responds far more eagerly when you squeeze its accelerator pedal. However, it's a pity you end up with a much smaller boot than the 1.8-litre hybrid.

2.0 VVT-i Hybrid

Hatchback

Toyota is a company undergoing a quiet revolution, as it works hard to replace its sensible but somewhat bland reputation with one for being a bit more daring, in areas such as the styling of its cars and its enthusiastic leadership of cutting-edge technology, such as hybrid systems.

That process seems to be working for buyers, with the hugely popular and striking-looking C-HR SUV in particular attracting a great deal of interest. The latest version of the hybrid Prius is also rated highly by What Car?; it’s the first Prius to go on sale that our testers have felt can truly compete all round with existing petrol or diesel rivals.

However, it’s worth noting that this period of transition is also a work in progress, and that many of the firm’s cars are still rated as being no more than average among class rivals by our testers.

TOYOTA

COROLLA

This range-topping trim is too pricey for us to recommend, even though it adds part-leather seats and bigger (18in) alloys to everything that comes with cheaper Design trim.



Excel

2.0 VVT-i Hybrid Excel 5dr CVT [JBL]

20-vvt-i-hybrid-excel-5dr-cvt-jbl

Smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android auto

Supplemental restraint system (SRS) 7 airbags - dual driver, dual side curtain, side impact and driver knee airbags

Power adjustable lumbar support on driver seat

Toyota Corolla

All things considered, the Toyota Corolla is a brilliant family car. It's comfortable, well made, well equipped and remarkably frugal in real-world driving. True, the 1.8 Hybrid version is no ball of fire and rear passenger space is decidedly below par, but as long as those flaws aren't dealbreakers for you, it's a fantastic buy.  

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Plenty of practical space </li> <li>Low running costs </li> <li>A comfortable ride </li> <li>A healthy equipment list </li> <li>Quality materials and thoughtful touches inside </li> <li>Rock-solid reliability</li></ul>

Family cars arguably have the toughest brief of all: they have to be good at pretty much everything. They’re used as the daily drive, on the school run or work commute (often both), and have to be able to cope with a family’s clutter on weekends and holidays.

The Skoda Scala is a relative newcomer, but it's&nbsp;already carved out a name for itself in this segment.&nbsp;If you're looking for a moderately priced car that combines a supple ride, neat handling, a spacious interior and a capacious boot&nbsp;it's well worth a look.&nbsp;Alternatively, if you're looking for entertaining handling then the&nbsp;BMW 1 Series may well be for you. It's great to drive, rides well&nbsp;and also comes with a top-notch interior, featuring one of our very favourite infotainment systems.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Toyota Corolla&nbsp;is another great choice. This latest version of one of the world's best-selling cars of all time can be had with a choice of two different petrol-electric hybrid engines, both of which should mean&nbsp;potentially lower fuel bills. It's comfortable, well equipped and should be very reliable, too.&nbsp;

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Toyota Corolla 2.0 VVT-i Hybrid Excel 5dr CVT [JBL] Review

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