2018 Corolla Wagon - Will it be a wise addition to Toyota UAE fleet?

Toyota has been a well-known auto brand in the UAE market, with its products being praised for reliability, affordability, and low maintenance. And that’s the reason why despite the introduction of value-added tax in January, Toyota’s sales didn’t fall as low as that of its counterparts. Now, one of the reasons for its steady growth can be its impressive lineup that not only serves buyers looking for lifestyle-oriented but commercial usage cars as well.

Now, anyone who’s in sync with the global happenings in and around the auto world must have heard of the all-new Corolla Wagon, recently introduced by Toyota. And that got us into thinking how it will perform in the UAE? Shall, Toyota even consider bringing it to our shores or not?

In the UAE, station wagons usually attract buyers with large families, as this segment focuses on providing a comfortable drive, good fuel economy, and interior space. But the choice in the said segment is limited with options like - Subaru Outback, Volvo V60, Volvo V90, and Lincoln MKT running at the top of our heads. Even Hyundai has the i40 on sale a few years back, and it was shortly discontinued. Why? Well, we don’t know for sure as no official statement was released, but maybe it's because of the low sales performance. With such background, Toyota launching the new Corolla Touring Sports Wagon doesn’t seem feasible.

It looks like only offerings from premium brands can sustain the competition.

However, there’s another side to the story too. Heard of Toyota Corolla - the sedan, well, of course, you have, as it’s the fastest running cars picked by companies for their commercial fleet. Now, with Toyota having such firm grip in the department and that too with the Corolla sedan, it might be the case that its new Wagon counterpart is also favoured. And to its support is its amazing looks that’s nothing close to boring, we must assure you. Also, the cabin space and quality are top-notch with all the modern day fixtures and fittings.

Surprisingly enough, boosting its economy quotient (one thing everyone from corporate to family guy wants), Corolla Wagon is available with two customer’s choice of hybrids - a 122 PS 1.8-litre and a 180 PS 2.0-litre. Also, there’s a 1.2-litre turbo gas unit.

If all this isn't enough, the new Corolla Touring Sports have more exciting elements in its specification sheet, have a look 

• Built using Toyota’s New Global Architecture, specifically the GA-C platform
• MacPherson strut suspension at the front and the new multi-link rear combined with shock absorbers valve technology promises excellent ride quality and handling
• Optional Adaptive Variable Suspension for improved ride quality
• World’s first 3D driver’s meter, premium heads-up display, and JBL GreenEdge Premium sound system

Well, to us the 2018 Toyota Corolla wagon package as a whole looks pretty appealing. It seems like Toyota has prepped-up its new creation for the premium-loving folks. So, we think the UAE is all ready to take a plush, high-end wagon from a mass-oriented brand. However, only time will tell whether or not Toyota is planning to step out of Europe with its newly revealed wagon or not. And if yes, will the UAE be one of a potential market list for the car.

Our say - Toyota should bring its wagon to the UAE. The market needs an in-budget option with all the premium features intact and more.