THE new Toyota Corolla, being launched on January 2, has been awarded best-in-class insurance classification throughout the range. This means that the entry-level T2 three-door hatchback has an insurance group of just 3E, two groups lower than the outgoing 1.4-litre Corolla and only one group higher than the 1.0-litre Yaris.

T2 1.6-litre models have been rated at 5E, three groups lower than their 1.6-litre predecessors and one group lower than the Peugeot 307 1.6 and Honda Civic 1.6i S. The work done in development to ensure the new Corolla is cheaper to repair means the car requires fewer parts than others to repair a similar impact. This development, in part, allows it to have low insurance rates.

Another key area for the new car is cost of ownership, encompassing a variety of different factors ranging from service and repair costs to driving costs.

Duncan McMath, Toyota Motor Europe general manager responsible for the technical division of the customer service group, said: "The new Corolla is being launched into the most competitive segment of the European market and to cost-conscious customers. These super-low insurance costs will be particularly appreciated by the younger drivers we expect to be attracted to the more-sporty looking new Corolla."

Cutting the cost of ownership, therefore, has been a design priority. Through the use of design and engineering, repair costs for frontal damage in the event of a low-speed crash (9mph, 40 per cent off-set collision) have been cut by around 50 per cent from the previous model.

Specific action includes items such as replaceable headlamp mounting brackets which are designed to break on impact before the lamp itself is damaged; a front impact absorption member which avoids damage to the radiator; and a keen price focus on parts that do get damaged.