Toyota will launch its diesel assault in the D segment with the Corolla Altis diesel on the 21st of July. The new Corolla is powered by a 1.4-litre turbo diesel D-4D oilburner with variable geometry intake producing 90PS of power and close to 190 Nm of torque. On paper this is absolutely no match for the competition which boasts of not only higher bhp figures but significantly more turning force. Inside sources have told Motoroids about the sluggish nature of the engine which propels the Altis diesel to 100kmph in more than 16 seconds (in real world, that is equivalent to a few years). For the record, the Cruze (which will still cost less than the Altis diesel) hits a ton in less than 10 seconds.
The in-gear acceleration and smoothness of the diesel engine is reported to be good with the best aspect of the small powerplant being its fuel efficiency. Reports have estimated the mileage to be more than 20kmpl. But for a Rs. 14 lakh car buyer, fuel efficiency is not the most important parameter. What is important is the car should offer luxury and brand value and that is where the Toyota clicks almost always. Now only if Honda wake up and smell the coffee.
Source – Motoroids