Toyota extends its new hatchback globally
Five-door Corolla Sport could preview some design and technical hints of the next-generation sedan.
Isn’t this the Auris of Europe?
Yes, it is. First revealed at the Geneva motor show earlier this year, the Toyota Auris is now in its third generation.
The C-segment five-door hatchback was then launched in the US as the Corolla Hatchback and, just recently, in Japan, where it is known as the Corolla Sport. Toyota says Taiwan is next up in September.
Note the flashy design cues like the sharp lights and big bumper design on both the front and rear ends.
Helping with the sporty concept of the car, the cabin is adorned with a range of racy colour combinations.
Also note the design of the console, which has been partially inspired by the C-HR’s, with the monitor for the brand’s telematics clearly perched atop the dash.
Is it based on that platform … whatever it’s called?
Yes, this new five-door Corolla is based on the TNGA platform, which already underpins a range of models like the latest Prius and Camry.
The only one in Thailand to receive this new floor plan so far is the C-HR.
Depending on markets, there’s an array of engines available, including 1.8- and 2.0-litre petrol engines, hybrid versions of them and a 1.2-litre petrol-turbo.
The last option is sold in Japan with a CVT automatic transmission, which additionally features 10-speed manual mode.
Will Toyota sell this hatch in Thailand?
Our sources are still tight-lipped about its Thai sales prospects, with the only real challenge being sufficient demand and available production capacity here.
Practically all of Toyota’s rivals are building and selling C-segment hatchbacks in Thailand, including the Ford Focus (not the new one that went on sale in Europe recently), Honda Civic Hatchback, Mazda 3, MG 6 and Nissan Pulsar.
But the more important thing Thais can learn from this five-door hatchback is its likely influence on the pending 12th-generation sedan model. The Corolla Altis sitting in Thai showrooms today is ageing fast.
Expect the all-new Corolla Altis, the top choice among cabbies in Thailand, to be underpinned by that TNGA platform. A racier exterior and interior design can also be anticipated.
Now that Toyota has received the latest in industrial privileges for hybrid-powered cars, there’s a good chance that the next-gen Corolla Altis will get a partially electric option.