Launches, launches, and some more launches. Last week we saw the launch of two much awaited cars: the Nissan Micra and Mercedes Benz SLS AMG. While on is targeted as a volume generator for the company, the other has been brought for the elite rich Indians. And now we have another launch.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt. Ltd. (TKM) today announced the launch of the Corolla Altis Diesel in India, and in doing so had made India the first Asian country to get the BSIV Corolla Altis Diesel. The diesel Corolla Altis has been developed with the basic concept of ‘optimum balance of performance and economy’.

The new Corolla Altis diesel is equipped with a newly developed 1.4L in-line 4-cylinder D-4D Common Rail Diesel Engine that can produce a maximum output of 85.7 bhp and a peak torque of 205 Nm. The D-4D technology, also featured in the Innova, Fortuner, Prado and Land Cruiser 200, developed by Toyota has earned a global reputation for its high quality, durability and reliability. The D-4D engine is paired with a 6-Speed Manual Transmission, which is a first-in-segment offering.

And guess what’s the best thing about this new car. The new Toyota Corolla Altis diesel has an ARAI-certified best-in-class mileage of 21.43 km/l. Name a car which can boast of a mileage like that. The car also boasts of the best ground clearance in its segment. The Corolla Altis Diesel a very sporty mesh grille and better aerodynamic characteristics.

Mr. Nakagawa (MD, TKM) said, “The Corolla DNA that has been handed down for 40 years is now in its 10th Generation with over 35 million happy customers worldwide. The car made its debut in India in 2003, and now has more than 60,000 satisfied owners in the country. As part of our long-term commitment to bring the best of Toyota’s technology to India, we are very proud to introduce the Corolla Altis Diesel. The Corolla Altis Diesel has Toyota’s proven D-4D technology, and I am happy to say will have the best fuel efficiency in its segment.”

Mr. Sandeep Singh (Deputy Managing Director-Marketing, TKM) said, “Apart from the spacious interiors and luxury features of the Corolla Altis, the diesel variant has the best fuel efficiency, lowest NVH and the best ground clearance in its segment. Our target customers are individuals who are business professionals, in the 35 to 45 age group looking for a perfect balance of performance and economy. The launch of the Corolla Altis Diesel has enhanced Toyota’s line-up in India, and we are looking at consolidating our leadership position in the C-segment with a sales target of 10,500 units for the Corolla Altis in 2010.”

The Corolla Altis Diesel comes with a competitive price tag ranging between Rs 10.95 lakh and 13.75 lakh, ex-showroom Delhi.

Two thumbs-up to Toyota for launching the much needed diesel variant of Corolla Altis.