2014 Toyota Corolla teased again

Toyota has published two additional teaser images that preview the all-new 2014 Corolla. The car is scheduled to debut at private, media-only event in Southern California next Thursday.

The teaser images reveal little but the a set of leaked low-resolution pictures published by website Carscoop confirm that the twelfth-gen Corolla wears an expressive design that borrows styling cues from both the recently-unveiled RAV4 and the Furia concept that bowed at the Detroit Motor Show last month. The car's front end is fitted with a three-slat chrome grille and sharp headlights that incorporate LED running lights, while the back end features a sculpted trunk lid. 

Pictures of the interior were not leaked but earlier spy shots showed that the 2014 Corolla is equipped with a multi-function steering wheel and chrome-ringed gauges, a sign that the compact sedan is moving upscale.  The car's exact dimensions are not known but it is expected to be slightly longer than the outgoing model, freeing up more leg room for the rear passengers.

What we know so far
An order guide erroneously posted online by a dealer has given us a better idea of what to expect from the redesigned Corolla.

Engine changes will be minimal: The existing 1.8-liter four-cylinder will return with continuously variable valve timing and lift (the latter is new) courtesy of Toyota's Valvematic system. Output figures weren’t specified in the order guide, but expect horsepower to increase from the current level of 132 to about 150 ponies.

One big surprise is that an antediluvian four-speed automatic will still be offered on entry-level models.  Upper trim levels will benefit from a CVT, and a new six-speed manual will also be available. Fuel economy is still a mystery, but the CVT will likely help the Corolla to achieve around 40 mpg on the highway.

Buyer will be able to choose between base, LE, S and Eco trim levels and spec several new options, including softex leather, push-button start and a navigation system.