Urdu Report Desk
Toyota is preparing significant changes to its popular Corolla, with the next-generation model expected to offer petrol, hybrid, plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and fully electric powertrain options.
The redesigned Corolla could arrive in 2027 as a 2028 model. According to a recent report, Toyota is developing a new platform capable of supporting multiple powertrains, ranging from conventional petrol engines to fully electric drivetrains.
Multiple Powertrain Strategy
Toyota previewed its multi-powertrain strategy with the Corolla Concept at the Japan Mobility Show 2025.
During the event, Toyota President and CEO Koji Sato discussed the future of the Corolla, specifically mentioning battery-electric, plug-in hybrid, hybrid and internal combustion engine options.
New Hybrid Powertrain
The next-generation Corolla Hybrid is expected to feature a new 1.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine paired with an electric motor.
According to the report, the system could produce approximately 134 horsepower, including around 94 horsepower from the petrol engine and another 40 horsepower from the electric motor.
The new hybrid system could also deliver a 10% to 20% improvement in efficiency compared with the current Corolla Hybrid.
Toyota may introduce an all-wheel-drive version equipped with an additional electric motor.
Petrol Version Expected to Continue
Despite Toyota’s growing focus on electrification, the next-generation Corolla is expected to retain a conventional petrol-powered variant.
Toyota’s new 1.5-liter engine supports turbocharging and could be used in the petrol Corolla.
However, the company may instead introduce an updated version of its existing 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.
Toyota has not confirmed the final engine configuration.
First Plug-in Hybrid Corolla Expected
The next-generation lineup is also expected to introduce the first plug-in hybrid Corolla.
The PHEV variant will feature a larger battery than the standard hybrid, allowing the vehicle to travel longer distances on electric power before the petrol engine comes into operation.
However, Toyota has not disclosed the battery capacity, electric-only driving range or performance specifications of the anticipated plug-in hybrid model.
Fully Electric Corolla Also Planned
A fully electric Corolla is also expected to join the next-generation lineup, although Toyota has not confirmed which countries or markets will receive the electric variant.
According to reports, the electric Corolla could be offered with single-motor and dual-motor configurations if introduced in markets such as the United States.
The model could target a driving range of at least 250 miles, approximately 402 kilometers.
However, Toyota has not officially confirmed these range estimates or the final specifications of the electric version.
Major Exterior and Interior Changes Expected
Toyota provided an early look at the future Corolla’s design through a concept vehicle unveiled in 2025.
The concept features a sharper, more futuristic appearance than the current model, with a heavily sloped windscreen, slim lighting elements and a more aerodynamic body.
According to reports, Toyota is developing the new platform to accommodate petrol, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric powertrains within the same basic architecture.
The approach is intended to allow different versions to share a common platform without significantly compromising passenger or cargo space.
The production model is also expected to feature a substantially redesigned interior, including larger displays, fewer conventional controls and a more spacious cabin.
