Japan – Toyota launches Corolla hybrid

Hybrid versions of the Toyota Corolla Axio (sedan) and the Corolla Fielder (estate) have been launched in Japan. There is no visual difference except for the new Light Blue Metallic color and the badges. The hybrid variants of the Corolla are eligible for a 100% tax waiver in Japan. Like other hybrid cars, the JDM Corolla hybrid emits less CO2 and delivers impressive fuel economy. Both these versions are powered by a combination of a 1.5 litre petrol engine and a THS-II (Toyota Hybrid System) hybrid module. The engine puts out 74PS while the electric motor makes another 61PS. The hybrid system derives its electricity from a Nickel-Metal Hydride battery which also runs the water pump thereby reducing the load on the engine.

The New Grand i10

The Hyundai Grand i10 will be available in both petrol and diesel powertrains. The petrol engine is the same tried and tested 1.2-litre Kappa unit and though Hyundai has not mentioned power and torque figures yet, we reckon it will be the same as the i10 (80 BHP, 114 Nm) with minor tweaks for better refinement and efficiency.

 

 

The diesel version of the Hyundai Grand i10 is powered by a new 1.1 litre 3-cylinder U2 second generation CRDi engine (which is the 1.4-litre CRDI mill sans a cylinder). This is the first time any version of the i10 has come with a diesel mill in India. Hyundai has not yet revealed the power and torque rating for this engine but has mentioned that this engine will deliver the best in class performance and fuel efficiency. We reckon this engine will produce close to 75 BHP of power and 180 NM torque, like it does in the first gen i10 diesel in Europe.