Toyota has “hatched” its new hatchback – here’s what we know so far

The secret’s out with the 2019 Toyota Corolla hatchback! Earlier this week, they started “#ToyotaHatch” on Twitter, and showed us an egg holding a surprise. We thought it was likely the new hatchback version of the Corolla, and that is indeed the case. Shown here in “Rival Blue”, the new Corolla’s built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TGNA). It has new looks, inside and out. You’d expect that, since it’s a new generation. With that spoiler on the back, it looks like it could be a fun hatch. However, there are two pieces that interest us with this new version. Together, these two features make the Corolla unique among Toyota’s lineup.

The 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback Hangs On to the Manual

The current generation Corolla iM – derived from the global market Corolla/Auris – will carry on with a six-speed manual into the new generation. That’s sure to make enthusiasts happy, as there aren’t too many cars where you can still row your own gears. In fact, as of 2018, these models are the only ones that offer manual transmissions. Both trim levels, SE and XSE, get the manual option.

Entune 3.0 brings Apple CarPlay support

After years of holding out, Toyota has started implementing Apple CarPlay support into their new models. It started with the Camry and the Sienna, and now the new Corolla hatchback will be compatible as well. The 2019 Toyota Corolla hatchback comes with an 8.0-inch screen and Wi-Fi as well as Amazon Alexa support, in addition to Apple CarPlay. SE models have a six-speaker stereo system, while XSE models get an upgraded, 800-watt, eight-speaker JBL setup.

Other features making their way to the 2019 Toyota Corolla hatchback include “Safety Sense 2.0”, an upgraded version of the safety suite that’s become well-known across the brand’s lineup. The suite comes standard on SE and XSE models, and includes features like the pre-collision system, radar cruise control, lane keep assist, and automatic high beams. There’s also a new one in there: “Lane Tracing Assist”. It tries to solve one of the lane keep assist system’s biggest drawbacks, which is what to do if the lines disappear. This system uses markings it can see as well as the path of a car in front of you to “trace” where the lane should be. From there, it works to keep you centered in what it determines is your lane.

Engine specifications

Across the range, Toyota (excluding Lexus) does not currently offer turbocharged engines in their production models. The 2019 Toyota Corolla hatchback continues that trend, with a 2.0-liter, naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine. Horsepower and torque figures aren’t available yet, but it does run with a 13.0:1 compression ratio, up from 10.6:1 in the old Corolla iM.

The new Corolla hatchback will go on sale this summer. Check back to TFLcar.com for more updates. Subscribe to The Fast Lane Car and TFLnow on YouTube for our coverage of the 2018 event.

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