Toyota Corolla vs Toyota Corolla Quest – The R115,000 difference

Did you know the Corolla and Corolla Quest are two completely different models in Toyota’s lineup, and “Quest” is not just a fancy name for a trim line?

Starting at R265,200 there is the Corolla Quest MT – a 1.8-litre, 6-speed manual, 5-seater sedan.

Starting at R380,200 there is the Corolla 1.8 XS CVT – a 1.8-litre, CVT automatic, 5-seater sedan.

Both these cars come with Toyota’s 3-year/100,000km warranty, while the standard Corolla receives a 6-services/90,000km service plan and the Quest receives a 3-services/45,000km service plan.

They have similar styling – with hints of a newer design on the Corolla’s front and rear – and both receive Bluetooth, hill assist control, and daytime running lights as standard.

That’s about where the similarities end, however.

The normal Corolla has a surprising number of extra features over those in the Quest, which can make the extra R115,000 worth it.

The differences

Starting with the engine – both models are equipped with the 1.8-litre powerplant from Toyota.

However, the Corolla’s power inches ahead at 104kW with the Quest producing 103kW.

Torque, on the other hand, is where the Quest “shines” – with a maximum figure of 173Nm, whereas the Corolla produces a bit less at 171Nm.

Due to this, the Quest achieves the 0-100km/h run in 9.8 seconds and reaches a claimed top speed of 200km/h. The Corolla takes longer to reach 100km/h at 10.5 seconds while also having a lower top speed of 195km/h, according to Toyota.

Nevertheless, it achieves a combined fuel consumption of 6.2l/100km, whereas the Quest comes in at a higher 7.0l/100km.

Inside the cabin is where the price difference starts to become apparent.

The Corolla is fitted with partial leather seats as standard, while the Quest is fitted with fabric.

The Corolla then receives the Toyota display audio system, a reverse camera, powered driver seat adjustment, one-touch electric windows, multifunction steering wheel, six speakers, and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capabilities as standard.

The Quest’s noteworthy features include the Toyota RDS audio system, one-touch electric windows for the driver only, simplified multifunction steering wheel, four speakers, AUX input, and CD input as standard.

The Corolla’s lead extends to the exterior as it has smart entry door handles, LED lights front and rear, and an auto light control system with follow-me-home functionality.

The Quest receives none of these and only packs standard colour-coded door handles, and halogen lights.

As expected, both cars have decent safety features.

The Corolla comes equipped with side, knee, curtain, driver, and passenger airbags; while the Quest receives driver and passenger front airbags, and a driver knee airbag.

A point for the Quest comes in the form of standard brake assist however, as that is an optional extra for the Corolla.

Luggage capacity for the Corolla then comes in at 470 litres, with the Quest trailing at 452 litres.

Verdict

At R380,200, the Corolla is a lot of car for the cash.

For R265,200, the Quest can claim the same.

Being from a respectable and well-known brand, with thorough warranty and service plans, I don’t think either of these cars are bad choices.

But, if your budget allows it, I would recommend going for the more expensive Corolla – or at least a higher-specced Quest.

Toyota Corolla XR CVT

Toyota Corolla Quest Exclusive CVT