Toyota has long been a trusted name in Malta, known for producing reliable, efficient, and well-designed vehicles. The Corolla range is no exception, offering both the Corolla Hatchback and the Corolla Touring Sports – two models built on Toyota’s renowned hybrid technology.
Choosing between them depends on what you need from your car. If you want something compact and sporty, perfect for Malta’s tight streets and limited parking, the Hatchback is a great option. If you require more space for passengers or luggage for longer journeys, the Touring Sports delivers extra practicality without compromising on style.
In this guide, we will help you decide which model suits your needs best by comparing the vehicles’ design, interior space, performance, and features.
Table of Contents
Quick comparison table
| Feature | Corolla Hatchback | Corolla Touring Sports |
| Size | Compact and agile | Longer and more spacious |
| Boot space | 361L | 596L (up to 1,606L) |
| Fuel efficiency | 4.5–5.0L/100km | 5.0–5.5L/100km |
| Handling | Sporty and responsive | Stable and comfortable |
| Technology | City-friendly features | Family-oriented tech |
| Best for | Urban drivers, singles | Families, travellers |
Design and dimensions
The first thing to consider is the size of car you’re looking for. Both models follow Toyota’s modern styling, but their size and proportions cater to different drivers.
The Corolla Hatchback is designed for agility, which makes it ideal for Malta’s urban environments. With a length of approximately 4,370 mm and a width of 1,790 mm, it easily fits into those tight parking spots in Valletta, Sliema, or St. Julian’s. As well, its aerodynamic shape enhances its sporty appeal, perfect for those who enjoy a dynamic drive.
For drivers who need extra space, the Corolla Touring Sports offers a longer body at 4,650 mm, providing a more spacious interior without sacrificing style. Whether you’re heading to the beach in Mellieħa with the family or making your weekly run for groceries, the extra boot space and comfortable seating make every journey more convenient.
Key difference: While the Hatchback is ideal for city drivers who need a nimble and easy-to-park car, the Touring Sports is better suited for families and those needing additional storage capacity.
Interior space and practicality
A city car is only as reliable as the engine under its bonnet, and the Aygo X doesn’t disNext, we think about the interior; both models offer a premium feel with high-quality materials and an intuitive layout. However, their differences become more apparent when considering passenger comfort and cargo capacity.
The Corolla Hatchback is compact yet comfortable and provides a well-crafted, driver-focused cabin with ergonomic seating and soft-touch materials. Front passengers enjoy ample legroom, but the rear seats may feel slightly snug on longer journeys. With a boot capacity of 361 litres, it offers enough space for daily essentials, whether it’s shopping or carrying a few small suitcases for a weekend trip to Gozo.
Read more about the Corolla Hatchback
In contrast, the Corolla Touring Sports offers more generous space for passengers. Its longer body provides more rear legroom, ensuring greater comfort for passengers, especially on longer drives. The real advantage comes in boot space – 596 litres with the seats up, expanding to 1,606 litres when the rear seats are folded. This makes it perfect for fitting in a pushchair, luggage for family getaways or even transporting sports equipment.
Which model suits you best?
- If you mostly drive alone or with a passenger, the Hatchback has all the space you need.
- If you frequently travel with family, pets or larger cargo, the Touring Sports is the better fit.
Performance and engine options
Now, when it comes to performance, both models deliver a smooth and efficient driving experience, making both of them well-suited for Malta’s roads. Here’s why:
Powertrains and hybrid efficiency
Both models offer Toyota’s self-charging hybrid system, available with:
- A 1.8-litre self-charging hybrid engine, prioritising fuel economy
- A 2.0-litre self-charging hybrid engine, offering more power without significantly affecting efficiency
Driving experience
The Corolla Hatchback is ideal for drivers who enjoy a sportier feel. Its compact size and sharp handling make it easy to navigate through Malta’s busy streets and tight corners. If you select the 2.0-litre engine, it will deliver a more responsive driving experience all whilst maintaining excellent efficiency.
Meanwhile, the Corolla Touring Sports is built for comfort and stability, especially on longer drives across Malta and beyond. Its longer wheelbase provides a smoother ride, making it a great option for those who frequently travel between cities or need extra comfort for passengers.
Fuel efficiency
With Malta’s short driving distances and stop-start traffic, fuel efficiency is a key consideration for local drivers. Thanks to Toyota’s self-charging hybrid system, both models offer excellent fuel savings. The Hatchback has a slight edge due to its lighter frame, but both remain highly economical.
| Model | 1.8L Hybrid Fuel Economy | 2.0L Hybrid Fuel Economy |
| Corolla Hatchback | 4.5–5.0 L/100 km | 5.0–5.5 L/100 km |
| Corolla Touring Sports | 5.0–5.5 L/100 km | 5.5–6.0 L/100 km |
Overview: For daily commutes or city driving, the Hatchback is the most fuel-efficient choice. However, for drivers who regularly travel across the island or require additional comfort, the Touring Sports offers a well-balanced alternative.
Technology and features
Toyota ensures both models come equipped with the latest technology to enhance safety, connectivity and driving comfort.
Standard features
Regardless of which model you choose, both come with Toyota Safety Sense, a package of intelligent safety systems that includes:
- Pre-Collision System
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Departure Alert
- Road Sign Assist
As well, both models also feature an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Bluetooth connectivity, making every drive more connected and convenient.
Model-specific highlights
There are still some model-specific features that we must highlight. For example, The Corolla Hatchback is optimised for city driving, so it features parking assist, making it easier to park in tighter spots around Malta and Gozo. Also, higher trims offer a head-up display, keeping essential driving information within the driver’s line of sight.
The Corolla Touring Sports on the other hand, is designed with comfort in mind, so it includes heated rear seats and an optional panoramic roof, making longer journeys more enjoyable for the whole family.
Cost of ownership and running costs
At the end of the day, we know costs matter. Whether it’s the upfront price or the long-term savings, both models are an affordable investment.
Fuel efficiency: savings on every drive
When we think about the long-term investment, fuel economy is a major factor. And as we mentioned previously, thanks to Toyota’s hybrid system, both models optimise fuel consumption by using electric power at lower speeds and seamlessly switching to petrol when needed. This means:
- Lower fuel costs for everyday driving, especially in traffic-heavy areas
- No need to plug in – the hybrid system charges itself while you drive
- Reduced CO₂ emissions, making both models an environmentally friendly choice
Maintenance and servicing: built for long-term reliability
Toyota vehicles are known for their low maintenance costs and outstanding reliability, so whichever model you choose you can guarantee fewer unexpected expenses over the years. That’s because:
- Hybrid engines require less wear and tear maintenance – the regenerative braking system reduces strain on brake pads, and the petrol engine experiences less stress thanks to electric assistance.
- Toyota Malta’s competitive servicing packages, ensuring that routine maintenance is affordable and hassle-free.
- Genuine Toyota parts and expert technicians keep your car in peak condition, increasing long-term durability.
Resale value: strong demand for hybrids
Another great aspect of ownership is that Toyota hybrids hold their value exceptionally well, making them a smart financial investment. As fuel prices fluctuate and hybrid technology becomes increasingly sought after, pre-owned Toyota hybrids remain in high demand. In both cases, Toyota’s strong brand reputation and hybrid efficiency contribute to higher resale values compared to traditional petrol or diesel cars.
Pricing
And if we look directly at the price? The Corolla Hatchback is the more affordable option. Making it ideal for younger drivers or professionals looking for a stylish, fuel-efficient vehicle.
Explore Corolla Hatchback pricing
The Corolla Touring Sports, while slightly more expensive, offers added practicality and comfort, making it a great investment for families or those who need extra storage.
Explore Corolla Touring Sports pricing
Conclusion
Both the Corolla Hatchback and Corolla Touring Sports offer Toyota’s renowned reliability, efficiency, and advanced hybrid technology, but each caters to different driving needs.
If you’re looking for a sporty, compact car that makes navigating Malta’s busy streets and finding parking effortless, the Corolla Hatchback is the ideal choice. Its responsive handling and excellent fuel efficiency make it perfect for city commuters and those who prioritise style and convenience.
For drivers who need more space, comfort and practicality, the Corolla Touring Sports is the better option. With its larger boot capacity and extra rear passenger room, it is well-suited for families, road trips and those who need extra versatility for everyday life.
The best way to decide is to experience both models for yourself. Visit Toyota Malta’s showroom in Zebbug and take a free test drive today. Our team is ready to help you find the perfect Corolla for your lifestyle.
FAQs
1. Which model is better for city driving?
The Corolla Hatchback is more suited for city driving due to its compact size and sporty handling.
2. Does the Touring Sports offer more boot space?
Yes, the Touring Sports offers 596L of boot space compared to the Hatchback’s 361L, making it ideal for families or those needing extra storage.
3. Are the engines the same in both models?
Yes, both models share Toyota’s 1.8L and 2.0L hybrid engine options, ensuring excellent fuel efficiency and performance.
4. Which model is more fuel-efficient?
The Hatchback is slightly more fuel-efficient with approximately 4.5–5.0 L/100 km, while the Touring Sports consumes around 5.0–5.5 L/100 km due to its larger size.
5. What safety features are included in both models?
Both models come with the latest Toyota Safety Sense features, including Pre-Collision System, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert, and Road Sign Assist.
Interested in booking a test drive? Click the link to learn more!
