New Toyota Corolla Hybrid revealed with a redesigned front - China

Reported to get a 1.5L Atkinson cycle engine. 

Seen here is the first image of what is reported to be the new Toyota Corolla Hybrid. The car was shown in an event in China, and is expected to go on sale in China in the second half of this year.

It is to be noted that Toyota does not sell a hybrid variant on the current generation Corolla, either in ASEAN markets, or in the United States (which sees a slightly sportier looking design). The Corolla Hybrid seen here is based on the ASEAN version, which is also sold in India.

A distinctive giveaway on this car, indicating its hybrid powertrain is the Blue Toyota logo. Toyota uses this logo for its hybrid variants of the Camry and Prius, which are sold in India as well. That apart, the grille, front bumper and headlights are redesigned, possibly to reduce the drag co-efficient, or maybe to give the sedan its own identity.

The Chinese media report that the Corolla hybrid will launch with a 1.5-liter petrol engine running on an Atkinson cycle assisted by an electric motor.

Also read: Toyota Vios caught testing in Bengaluru

As far as Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) is concerned, the company has indicated that it has seen good demand in case of the Camry Hybrid, with over 75 percent sales accounting for the hybrid model over the gasoline variant. Given that the Corolla is assembled at its Bidadi plant, just like the Camry, TKM could consider the Corolla Hybrid for our market as well.

[Source - Auto Ifeng]