Toyota surprised us as well as other journalists attending the 2019 RAV4 press drive with the unveiling of the all-new 2020 Corolla Sedan. Following the 2019 Corolla Hatchback, the sedan rides on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA), which now underpins several Toyota models.

This 12th generation Corolla shares the 106.3-inch wheelbase of the outgoing model, but the front and rear tracks are both wider. To further enhance driving dynamics, the Corolla sedan's height has been lowered nearly an inch resulting in a lower center of gravity. Plus, an 18-inch wheel option is available for the first time on this compact sedan in both SE and XSE trims.

Exterior design cues are carried over from the hatchback like the "Triple J" LED headlamps. An available Adaptive Front Lighting system aims the low beams in the direction of the steering angle. Out back, the LED lighting continues with various styles depending on trim level. 

Inside, all trims above L get an 8" touch screen with Entune 3.0. The standard gauge cluster is fitted with a 4.2-inch thin film transister (TFT) info screen but can be upgraded to a 7-inch Multi-Information Display, which can project either a digital or analog speedometer. Connectivity is also a priority with standard Apple CarPlay compatibility as well as Amazon Alexa. 

The base 1.8L 4-cylinder engine in L, LE, and XLE grades is a carryover from the previous Corolla, but the new Dynamic-Force 2.0L 4-cylinder can be had with its 169 horsepower and 151 lb.-ft of torque. Regardless of engine choice, if you want an automatic it will have to be the Dynamic-Shift CVT, which like on the Hatchback includes a physical first gear for better takeoffs. If a CVT makes you cringe, there's a 6-speed manual with downshift rev-matching technology. A multi-link rear suspension replaces the torsion beam from the previous generation while the front uses a MacPherson strut setup.

Standard advanced safety features are becoming a must-have in this segment and Toyota looks to please by including their Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 on all Corolla models. The system has Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steer Assist, Lane Tracing Assist (only on CVT-equipped models), Automatic High Beams, Road Sign Assist and Pre-Collision System, which can automatically apply the brakes if deemed necessary. One of our personal favorites, Blind Spot Monitoring is standard or available depending on trim level.

We did not get the chance to drive the 2020 Toyota Corolla Sedan, but it is expected to hit dealerships in the Spring of 2019.