Toyota’s new Corolla Hatchback is a welcome addition to a crowded class of small hatchbacks. And unlike the Corolla iM that preceded it, its name matches the utility it offers.
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All but identical to the globally sold Auris, the Corolla hatch is longer, lower and wider than its predecessor. It also uses a different platform than its Corolla sedan sibling. One noticeable feature is its wide-mouth bumper opening, which has a strip of body-colored trim to prevent the mouth from seeming to stretch infinitely. Among the design philosophies to guide the hatchback’s styling is what Toyota calls “Under Priority Catamaran,” which absolutely sounds like something we just made up for filler — but is 100 percent true.
The interior has a standard 8-inch touchscreen with physical buttons and knobs to adjust volume and tuning. Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa integration are standard, as is in-car Wi-Fi; however, Android Auto is not available in either of the Corolla Hatchback’s two trim levels, SE and XSE. XSE models have an optional navigation system and premium stereo.