2023 Toyota Corolla Commercial: Long-Term Test

Why Choose a Toyota Corolla Commercial over a Traditional Van?

If you’re in need of a vehicle that offers a reasonable amount of cargo space without the bulkiness of a traditional van, then the Toyota Corolla Commercial might be the perfect solution for you. This car-based van strikes the sweet spot between a car and a van, providing the versatility and practicality you need without sacrificing style and comfort.

A Discreet and Versatile Design

At first glance, the Toyota Corolla Commercial looks like a standard Corolla Touring Sports estate. However, upon closer inspection, you’ll notice that the rear windows are blocked off with a black film, designed to make its van identity as inconspicuous as possible. This discreet design allows you to transport your cargo without drawing unnecessary attention.

Spacious Cargo Bay

Inside the Corolla Commercial, you’ll find that the back seats have been removed to make way for a cavernous 1326-litre cargo bay. This space is perfect for carrying a reasonable but not excessively large amount of cargo. While it may not be as spacious as larger vans, it still offers ample room for objects up to 1860mm long and 1430mm wide.

Comfortable and Fuel-Efficient

Despite its van-like capabilities, the Corolla Commercial drives and feels like a car. The control weights are light around town, while the steering remains firm and stable at high speeds. The quietness, comfort, and fuel economy of this vehicle make it ideal for long drives.

The Corolla Commercial features a ‘self-charging’ hybrid system, consisting of a 1.8-litre four-pot petrol engine, an electric motor, and a small battery. With a total of 138bhp on tap, this hybrid system delivers power to the front wheels through an e-CVT. The powertrain is keen to stay in electric mode around town, resulting in smooth power delivery and impressive fuel efficiency.

Impressive Safety Features

The Corolla Commercial is equipped with radar-guided adaptive cruise control, which reduces stress in traffic by allowing the car to do most of the work. The heavy steering and accurate lane-keeping assistance make it feel like the car would be happiest with minimal human intervention. However, if you prefer a more hands-on driving experience, you can easily disable these systems via the controls on the steering wheel.

Additionally, the Corolla Commercial offers other safety features such as automatic collision avoidance. These safety features can be customized and disabled through the vehicle’s menus, and the car will remember your preferences for future drives.

Conclusion

The Toyota Corolla Commercial is a smart hybrid estate that offers the perfect balance between a car and a van. Its discreet design, spacious cargo bay, comfortable driving experience, and impressive fuel efficiency make it an excellent choice for those in need of a vehicle that can handle both everyday commuting and occasional cargo transportation.

Whether you’re a photographer needing to transport equipment or simply someone who values versatility and practicality in their vehicle, the Corolla Commercial is a reliable and efficient option. Say goodbye to bulky vans and hello to a smarter way of transporting your cargo.

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