Toyota Corolla: Will the coronated prince rule Nigerian road?

Since the introduction of the Corolla since 1966, Toyota has maintained a simple building structure very much understood by almost all mechanics today. Though the Toyota models in the past used to have small hitches such like poor quality seat that wear out and rust issues; quite a lot has changed in the past two […]

Since the introduction of the Corolla since 1966, Toyota has maintained a simple building structure very much understood by almost all mechanics today. Though the Toyota models in the past used to have small hitches such like poor quality seat that wear out and rust issues; quite a lot has changed in the past two decades.  For instance, 1ZZ-FE engine in 1998 came in aluminum block and chassis and since then much has improved for the Toyota Corolla. As the years go by, Toyota has made improvements on every new model it has introduced into the market.

The secrets of the Corolla being successful is that many have been tailored to suit the environment which they serve. Among the different car manufacturers we know, the Corolla is manufactured across the globe and if TNL is willing to have them assembled here in Nigeria even on any of PAN Nigeria assembly line, it will be a success for TNL- that if they are willing to do so. We are quite aware that PAN Nigeria is adjusting its assembly line to accommodate the manufacturing of any car. We know the Corolla is being manufactured in sixteen different countries and each of the countries tailor their cars to meet their road conditions. So why can Nigeria be among them? A lesson can’t be learnt from the Peugeot 307.

For Nigerians, it’s been a car that wins minds not necessarily hearts. Looking at the E120 or E140 chassis, I have found it very reliable. During the 6th international Lagos Motor fair I had the chance to learn much on how Toyota has made innovations to eliminate the chances of having an engine breakdown.  The Corolla has been very good as a utility vehicle but in recent times, we have seen PAN Nigeria just introduced the Peugeot 407 as police patrol cars.

So, most Toyota Corollas have received upgrades equal to the Peugeot 307 here in Nigeria but all of the options are not standard equipments. Moreover, TNL can afford to play around with their corolla because it’s what the market would look for.

If you are picking the American model it has been described as a 7/8ths Camry, also having styling commonality with its little brother, the Yaris.  It has been criticized for its sluggish steering and handling and for its inexpensive interior materials which seem a step back from the previous generation.  But we find more affordable and easy to live with plus its sport package looks more appealing. Reviewers note that the Corolla represents a gradual evolution over the previous iteration, without straying too far from the formula as a plain but reliable, fuel-efficient, simple and inexpensive form of transportation.

The secrets of the Corolla being successful is that many have been tailored to suit the environment which the serve. Among the different car manufacturers we know the corolla is manufactured across the globe and if TNL is willing to have them assembly here in Nigeria even in any of PAN Nigeria assembly line it will be a success for TNL- that if they are willing to do so.