2020 Toyota Corolla Preview – Hybrid Sedan, Hatch and Wagon Electrify Model Lineup

By Steve & Tamami Laser

Talk about a success story. It’s been 52 years since Toyota introduced the first Corolla at the Tokyo Motor Show in Japan (see below). Since then, Toyota has sold more than 46 million Corollas and derivative models across the globe.

As the best-selling car of all time, the Corolla has been sold in more than 150 countries and produced at more than a dozen manufacturing facilities. Last year, an amazing 1.3 million Corollas were sold.

Now, with the introduction of the 12th generation models, the Corolla will be offered in sedan, hatch, and wagon bodystyles, along with the choice of two hybrid powertrains (availability varies by market).

Toyota unveiled the U.S. version of the 2020 Corolla sedan this week in Carmel, Calif. The photos above and below show the gas-engine model, powered by 1.8-liter or 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engines. Details about the new Corolla Hybrid sedan for the U.S. are scheduled to be released at the upcoming Los Angeles Auto Show.

Like the Corolla hatchback that went on sale earlier this year, the new model rides on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) GA-C platform for improved ride quality, while offering a choice of Dynamic-Shift Continuously Variable or 6-speed manual transmissions.

The redesigned cabin sports a lower instrument panel and cowl for improved visibility. Meanwhile, the new dash features an 8-inch touchscreen with Entune 3.0 multimedia system, standard on all models except the base L, that has a 7-inch screen.

The Corolla Hybrid hatchback (above), called the Corolla Sport in Japan, went on sale in Japan this summer, powered by the Toyota Hybrid System II. It’s scheduled for release in Europe where a dual hybrid strategy will team it with 1.8-liter or 2.0-liter engines and an electric motor-generator. (We don’t know if the U.S. Corolla hatchback will eventually offer a hybrid.)

Lastly, the Corolla Touring Sports (below), created and developed in Europe, is an attractive new wagon that delivers increased cargo space compared to the hatch.

From the B-pillar back, the Touring Sports wears exclusive styling with a distinctive silhouette and unique body panels. Hybrid powertrains will be shared with the Corolla hatch.

Styled at Toyota’s design center in Belgium, the Touring Sports will be sold in Japan as the Corolla Wagon. However, there’s little chance of it making the journey to America.

Note: Features, specifications, launch dates and availability for international models are subject to change without notice.

News source and photos courtesy of Toyota Motor Corp., Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., Toyota Motor Europe, and Toyota (GB) PLC.

Story (commentary) © 2018 CarNichiWa.com