The Toyota Corolla, with over four decade's experience of ferrying people around, is a benchmark for mid-size sedans all over the world. The tenth generation Corolla, christened the Corolla Altis was launched in India on the 5th of September at the 'India Expo Centre', Greater NOIDA. Based on the theme of 'Happy Corolla for our planet', the Altis has been designed and made to appeal to the consumers' five senses. With targeted sales of 2,000 units per month in India, Toyota is on the verge of unleashing a vicious marketing campaign that is going to cover 100 shopping malls, airports and showrooms across the country. The target this time is going to be the younger generation, thus breaking away from its traditional customer base of middle-aged people.

The Toyota Corolla Altis has a more aerodynamic appearance and a wider stance, which makes its look quite elegant. Resembling a downsized version of the Camry, the Altis definitely has the looks to appeal to the masses. The 1.8-litre VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing - intelligent) petrol engine that is found under the hood of the three Corolla Altis variants (1.8G M/T, 1.8G (L) M/T and 1.8V (L) A/T) has been produced in accordance with the high-engineering standards set by Toyota's engineers, and with 132PS of power and 170Nm of torque, it is also extremely responsive.

Besides being economical, safe and practical, the new Corolla Altis is inundated in luxury and refinement with innovative features like a 6-CD in-dash music system with AUX-in and a wireless remote control, automatic air-conditioning, tilt + telescopic power steering with integrated audio controls, cruise control, automatic transmission with sequential shifts (automatic variant), Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) powered driver's seat with power lumber support, auto antiglare inner rear view mirror, automatic headlamps with power washers, sliding front armrest, rear armrest with integrated cup holders, 60:40 split folding rear seat and manual rear window sun blind.

With prices ranging from Rs. 10.80 lakhs (ex-showroom Delhi) to Rs. 12.86 lakhs (ex-showroom Delhi), the pricing couldn't have been more apt, sure to give the Corolla Altis a fighting chance of coming good in the mid-size segment.