THE first model to feature Toyota's fifth generation hybrid technology will be a new-look Corolla capable of up to 64.2mpg.

With a new power control unit and a more powerful battery the latest self-charging hybrid system is said to deliver a better driving experience.

It will be available on both the 1.8 and 2.0-litre engines used in the Corolla and for the 1.8-litre system it now develops 138bhp giving a 1.8 second reduction in the car's 0 to 62mph acceleration time to 9.1 seconds.

The 2.0-litre has risen to 193bhp from 181bjp previously and that sees its performance increase to 7.4 seconds 0 to 62mph.

Emissions are from 100g/km for the 1.8 engine and 98g/km for the 2.0-litre.

The facelift includes new headlight and grill designs on both the Corolla hatch and the Touring Sports estate models, which are built in the UK at Toyota's Burnaston factory in Derbyshire.

The arrival of the new models sees a fresh grade line up featuring Icon, Design, GR Sport and Excel specifications.

The new models are equipped as standard with the latest Toyota Smart Connect+ multimedia system, which has faster response and greater functionality, plus a fully digital, customisable 12.3-inch combimeter in the driver's instrument binnacle.

There are also major advances in the Toyota Safety Sense active safety and driver assistance systems, with new and enhanced features that recognise and help the driver avoid a wider range of everyday driving hazards.

Safety and multimedia functions have software updates deliverable over-the-air via the car's data communications module.

Prices rise a few hundred pounds over the previous models and now start from £30,210 fpr a 1.8-litre hatch in entry-level Icon trim, £31,545 for a similar specification Touring Sports model and £31,955 for 2.0-litre hatches and £32,290 for the estate.

The line up now tops out at £35,145 for 2.0-litre hatchbacks in Excel grade and £36,860 for the Touring Sports.