Toyota introduces the all-new Corolla Verso

The new Toyota uses design, modularity and quality to attract a broader range of C-segment MPV buyers. Toyota expects to sell 62,000 units in 2004, with sales scheduled to start in May across Europe.

The new-generation Toyota Corolla Verso is a totally new car. This vehicle represents an entirely new philosophy - a complete "out of the box" way of thinking has been adopted by Toyota's designers and engineers to bring to its customers a passenger car that will defy conventions.

Further to the successful introduction of Yaris, Corolla and Avensis, the all-new Corolla Verso represents the latest expression of Toyota's commitment to the European market. Its "raison d'être" is the new type of customers it intends to attract: active adults who live their lives to the full and are looking for something more special than just another family car.

Toyota expects to sell 62,000 units of this model throughout 2004. Sales are scheduled to start in May across Europe.

Dynamic design Toyota's European design studio (ED2) was in charge of the new Corolla Verso's exterior style. The chief designer of this project, Elvio D'Aprile, explains that the exterior design is formed by two entities. The lower part, comprised by the underbumper, wheel arches and rocker panel, is massive and robust, influenced by SUV design elements. The upper part provides a dynamic stance, characterized by the curved roof and third quarter window. Above all, the dynamic appearance of the new Toyota Corolla Verso is meant to be up to the level of its driving performance.

The familiar Toyota bulge on the bonnet becomes even more pronounced. The typical shape of the triangle quarter window and the rear lamps with "inverted L" shape also express Toyota's design identity. In addition, the new Corolla Verso integrates the front bumper and grille into a single part and the hood is placed as far backward as possible - this not only achieves a better integration, but also provides improved pedestrian protection.

Intelligent versatility The new Corolla Verso can accommodate up to 7 people. In addition, all the 5 rear seats can be flat folded, creating a completely flat cargo space, without the need of removing any seat from the interior.

The new Corolla Verso's flat-folding system is the simplest to operate in the market: with only one operation it is possible to fold down each rear seat. The seats are also the lightest you can find in the segment, which makes the operation even easier and possible for more people.

Quality is in the details The fit, finish and quality of the materials used in the interior of the new Toyota Corolla Verso are yet more examples of Toyota's superior quality philosophy.

The interior has been given geometric, three-dimensional lines to confer the cockpit a well-defined arch-like form. A combination of metallic finishes has been incorporated to accent the centre cluster and display a high-quality and high-tech appearance. Gap and clearance between some components have been reduced by 90% and 40% respectively. These improvements in fit and finish give the cabin a more flush and quality look.

Extensive work was also done to improve the feeling when closing the door of the new Corolla Verso. As a result, an optimum placement was defined for the door hinges and an air-tight seal was installed in the locking section. In addition, new door locks for both front and rear doors and the use of anti-vibration materials, strategically placed, provide a sound and feel for the door-closing that will please passengers from the first instant.

A world-class production facility Following Toyota's policy of manufacturing cars in Europe for European customers, the new Toyota Corolla Verso will now be produced at TMMT - Toyota Motor Manufacturing Turkey. This modern facility already produces the Corolla Wagon and Corolla Sedan that are sold in Europe, while Corolla Hatchback is manufactured in the United Kingdom by TMUK - Toyota Motor Manufacturing UK. With the addition of the new Corolla Verso, all Corolla bodytypes for the European market will therefore be produced in Europe.

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