Toyota confirms new Corolla hybrid
New-look hatch to offer petrol-electric drivetrain across the range.
Having championed the hybrid cause more than any other brand in Australia, Toyota has locked in plans to offer petrol-electric power across the new Corolla range.
Set to go on sale in August, the new Corolla will feature a choice of engines including a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre version with 125kW and 200Nm outputs, or a revised 1.8-litre hybrid unit paired with a CVT automatic transmission.
Toyota says the hybrid’s petrol engine is good for 72kW and 142Nm, while the electric drive motor serves up 53kW and 163Nm, resulting in maximum combined output of 90kW and claimed fuel economy of 4.2L/100km, 0.1L/100km more than the outgoing 100kW model.
A Toyota Australia spokesman said the manufacturer focused on improved responsiveness and engagement for the new hybrid.
Riding on the same Toyota New Global Architecture platform as the current Prius, the new Corolla is expected to be significantly sharper to drive than the current model. It will be joined by a new RAV4 SUV - including a hybrid version - in 2019.
Full details including local prices and specifications will be revealed closer to the new Corolla’s arrival.