Toyota Corolla Fielder 1.5 G (A)

The Corolla Axio was facelifted in just earlier this year, phasing out the unexciting styling of its predecessor for something more daring and up to date. Similarly, the Corolla Fielder, the station wagon format of the Axio, has received the same treatment too.

Featuring a large one-piece grille dominating the front fascia and a chrome nose above it, the styling of the facelifted Fielder appears to be more visually appealing and exciting than its predecessor’s. The halogen bulbs have been replaced with xenons during the facelift too.

Around the back, the lights are LED items, matching the upgraded lights afore. The rear lights on the Fielder seem to fit in to the car’s styling better than the Axio. The silver-painted roof rails look a treat too.

The Fielder was obviously not styled to wow, but to be inoffensive and conservative. There’s no bling or unconventional styling cues, Toyota’s designers have erred on the side of caution.

Inside, the cabin is spacious and comfortable. Plastic lines every panel on the interior, but they are durable and hard-wearing, which is also the case with the fabric in the cabin.

The G model comes equipped with a slightly different interior from the X model, featuring an automatic climate control and posher high gloss dashboard trims and surrounds. Also exclusive to the G model are steering wheel controls, and a full instrument panel, including the tachometer and ancillaries.

The controls are logically laid out on the dash, while the instruments are easy to read – the car is very suitable for those who are not into tech toys in their cars. However, the Corolla Fielder isn’t spartanly equipped, it comes with convenience niceties such as automatic headlights and folding wing mirrors as standard features.

The rear accommodation is what can be best described as generous. Legroom is plenty, as is headroom. The large is good enough to swallow two mountain bikes with the rear seats folded. The large boot is indeed very useful with a low floor and a wide entry.

While the Corolla Fielder is a small station wagon, it sure doesn’t handle like a boat. The ride is supple and comfortable, while the huge glasshouse and thin pillars mean visibility is great too. The car steers confidently and doesn’t wallow about in the corners, and feedback from the wheel is fairly decent too. To drive, the Corolla Fielder involves minimal participation, it detaches the driver from the chore of driving.

Under the hood sits a 1.5-litre VVT-i motor also found on the Sienta and many other Toyota models, which is capable of about 108hp and 141Nm of torque. While the engine may have been around for quite some while, it is a strong and extremely reliable unit, and pulls strongly even when loaded up.

Mated to the engine is a CVT gearbox that aims to maximise fuel economy than deliver sheer performance. During our test drive, we managed to achieve an average of 15km/L in a mix of city and highway driving.

The Toyota Corolla Fielder is a capable and sensible family workhorse that can swallow a whole boot full of shopping and other gear that the kids may have. It is great for those looking for a fuss free car ownership, and one that gives a drive that is easy on the driver.

Car review sponsored by: Autolink Holdings

Credits: Oneshift Editorial Team