Toyota Corolla Hybrid to be priced at $26,990
The Corolla Hybrid model draws power from a 73kW/142Nm 1.8-litre petrol engine mated to a 60kW electric motor for a combined system output of 100kW, while a CVT automatic transmission channels power to the front wheels.
The official fuel number has not yet been announced, but in Europe the Auris Hybrid - which is what the Corolla is sold as over there - uses just 3.5 litres per 100 kilometres.
As you may expect, the Corolla Hybrid weighs in a bit heftier than the regular hatch variants: according to data seen by CarAdvice, it tips the scales at about 1375 kilograms, a good 65kg more than the top-spec ZR model.
Full specifications have not yet been released by the Japanese brand, but the company has confirmed that the new model will be offered with a touchscreen media system with satellite navigation, Toyota Link connected mobility, dual-zone climate control and bi-LED headlamps.
That list of equipment would see it almost mimic the list of gear on the more expensive ZR, though based on images provided by Toyota earlier this year, the Hybrid will miss out on leather trim. It is also expected to get smaller 16-inch alloy wheels (17s on the ZR) and Goodyear low-rolling resistance tyres.
The Corolla Hybrid adopts a double wishbone rear suspension setup, where the standard models have a torsion beam arrangement.
Toyota Australia product public relations manager Stephen Coughlan wouldn't comment on pricing for the new model.
"We'll officially confirm all local specifications and pricing for the new Corolla Hybrid in the near future," Coughlan said. "In the interim, I'm happy to tell you that it will be well specified, deliver impressive fuel efficiency and offer strong value - building upon the DNA of reliability, that has made has made Corolla so popular globally over the past 50 years."