The 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback marked a significant departure from its predecessor, the Corolla iM. With a focus on sporty design, enhanced performance, and advanced technology, the 2019 Corolla Hatchback aimed to redefine the compact car segment. This article explores the key features and improvements that made the 2019 model a standout.
Design and Styling of the 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback
Toyota designers embraced a “Shooting Robust” and “Agile” design philosophy for the 2019 Corolla Hatchback. The result was a lower, wider, and shorter car compared to the iM, with a more aggressive stance and distinct character lines. The front fascia featured a rounded nose, trapezoidal under grille, and J-shaped Bi-Beam LED headlamps. The rear boasted a steeper hatch angle, LED taillamps, and a chrome diffuser. Available in SE and XSE grades, the XSE further distinguished itself with 18-inch wheels, LED fog lights, and an available Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS).
Interior and Technology
The interior of the 2019 Corolla Hatchback was designed with “Sensuous Minimalism” in mind. A high-resolution 8-inch touchscreen dominated the center stack, providing access to Entune 3.0, Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, and other connected services. The cabin prioritized comfort and functionality with features like sport seats, a redesigned center console, and ample storage space. The XSE grade added premium features like dual-zone climate control, combination leather seating, and a 7-inch TFT Multi-Information Display.
Entune 3.0 offered various tiers of audio systems, culminating in the available JBL 8-speaker 800-watt system with Clari-Fi technology for exceptional sound quality. Multiple USB ports and an auxiliary jack ensured seamless device connectivity.
Performance and Handling
Under the hood, the 2019 Corolla Hatchback housed a new 2.0-liter Dynamic-Force engine. This engine delivered increased power and fuel efficiency compared to the previous 1.8-liter engine. Paired with either a Dynamic-Shift CVT or a six-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT), the Corolla Hatchback offered engaging driving dynamics. The CVT featured a launch gear for improved initial acceleration, while the iMT included downshift rev-matching for smoother gear changes. The TNGA platform significantly improved torsional rigidity, contributing to better handling and stability. A sport-tuned suspension further enhanced the car’s responsiveness and agility.
Safety Features
The 2019 Corolla Hatchback prioritized safety with the inclusion of Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 (TSS 2.0) as a standard feature. TSS 2.0 encompassed a suite of advanced safety technologies, including:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD)
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (Full-Speed DRCC) or Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) for manual transmission models.
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA)
- Automatic High Beam (AHB)
- Lane Tracing Assist (LTA)
- Road Sign Assist (RSA)
2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback: A Well-Rounded Package
The 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback offered a compelling combination of style, performance, technology, and safety. Its dynamic design, upgraded interior, efficient powertrain, and comprehensive safety features made it an attractive option in the compact car market.
