You have probably heard of the Toyota Corolla, the best-selling car in the world. The sedan is popular for its high safety ratings, rock-solid reliability, fuel economy and affordability. Toyota’s newest addition to the Corolla lineup – the Corolla Hatchback – looks to match its older sibling’s success in a sportier package. Here are five things to know about the 2019 Corolla Hatchback. Replaces Corolla iM When Toyota pulled the plug on the Scion brand in 2016, it absorbed many of its models, including the Scion iM hatchback. It was rebadged as the Corolla iM for the 2017 and 2018 model years. The 2019 Corolla Hatchback replaces the short-lived Corolla iM as an all-new vehicle built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform. The Corolla Hatchback has a sleeker, sportier design than the iM, including additions such as:

• Integrated rear window spoiler
• More color choices
• Leather-trimmed sport seats

New Engine and Transmission The five-door Corolla has an all-new, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that packs 168 horsepower – which is quite a punch for a small vehicle. The iM’s engine was slightly smaller and only delivered 137 horsepower. The Corolla’s transmission system also got an upgrade. Drivers have the choice between two options:

• Dynamic-Shift Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with physical first-launch gear
• Intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT) with rev-matching capability

Standard Safety Features Toyota has long been considered one of the safest brands, and this commitment to safety shows in the new Corolla Hatchback. Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.0 comes standard, with features including:

• Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) – Helps you maintain a preset distance from vehicles ahead of you by automatically reducing your speed when the system detects a slower-moving car.
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist and Road Edge Detection (LDA with SA) – Issues an audio alert and visual warning if an inadvertent lane departure is detected and will initiate corrective steering to keep the vehicle in its lane.
• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS with PD) – Warns you of a possible collision with a vehicle, cyclist or pedestrian with automatic braking support to mitigate the potential for a crash.
• Road Sign Assist (RSA) – Detects speed limit, stop and yield signs and displays them where they are easily seen by the driver.

Every Corolla Hatchback comes with a backup camera. A Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) is available as an upgrade for added peace of mind. High-Tech Upgrades The Corolla Hatchback doesn’t skimp when it comes to technology. Notable standard features include:

• Electric Parking Brake (EPB) – When engaged, the brakes will hold the vehicle in place, without you needing to hold your foot on the pedal.
• Multi-Information Display (MID) – The available seven-inch display brings driving information right before your eyes, and steering wheel controls allow you to make phone calls, change music and more without taking your hands off the wheel.
• Multimedia touch-screen – The eight-inch touch-screen comes with the Entune™0 Audio system, Apple CarPlay™ support, Scout® GPS Link compatibility and more options for the ultimate in infotainment.
• Smart Key System – Lets you unlock the doors and start the engine with the push of a button.

For added driver and passenger comfort, heated seats and dual zone automatic climate control are available on the XSE trim level. Improved Fuel Economy Despite its larger engine, the Corolla Hatchback gets better gas mileage than the Corolla iM. The SE CVT model achieves an EPA-estimated 32/42/36 mpg city/highway/combined, compared to the iM’s 28/36/31 mpg estimate. The Corolla Hatchback easily beats out its competitors when it comes to fuel economy. The 2019 Honda Fit gets an estimated 31/36/33 mpg rating, while the 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT falls even shorter, with an EPA-estimated 24/36/30 mpg. That makes the Corolla Hatchback one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in its class. Test Drive the 2019 Corolla Hatchback at Toyota of Seattle With its standard suite of advanced safety features, sporty handling, intuitive technology and outstanding fuel economy, the 2019 Corolla Hatchback is an excellent choice for anyone looking to get behind the wheel of a safe, reliable and fun-to-drive vehicle. At Toyota of Seattle, we make it easy for you to find the Corolla Hatchback that’s right for you. We offer a wide selection of models to choose from, transparent pricing and competitively low finance rates. Each new vehicle comes with two years of complimentary maintenance and a seven-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty with roadside assistance, so you can rest easy knowing your vehicle will be reliable for years to come. Contact us online to learn more about our inventory or call 206-382-4300 to schedule a test drive today.