Toyota is preparing to introduce an electric version of the Corolla, its best-selling vehicle of all time with over 57 million units sold worldwide since 1966, according to Electrek.
The next-generation Corolla is expected to debut in 2027 as a 2028 model year, marking a significant evolution for the long-running nameplate. The new version will feature a sleek design, high-tech interior, and an updated platform, building on the current TNGA-C architecture but with a heavily modified version that supports multiple powertrains.
Toyota CEO Koji Sato presented a concept version at the Japan Mobility Show nearly a year ago, emphasizing the company’s commitment to multiple propulsion options. “Whether it’s a battery EV, plug-in hybrid, hybrid, or internal combustion engine vehicle―whatever the power source―let’s make good-looking cars that everyone will want to drive!” Sato said at the event.
The next-gen Corolla will be available in multiple powertrains. The new hybrid will use a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering approximately 134 horsepower combined, with hybrid efficiency expected to improve 10% to 20% over the current setup. Toyota has not yet revealed specific details about the plug-in hybrid variant, though it will feature a larger battery for extended electric driving range.
The pure electric Corolla is expected to be available in single- and dual-motor configurations with a driving range of at least 250 miles, according to the source. However, whether Toyota will bring the Corolla EV to the US market remains uncertain.
Pricing is expected to start around $25,000 for the gas version, approximately $27,000 for the hybrid, and roughly $30,000 for the EV and PHEV variants, according to Car and Driver reporting cited by Electrek.
Toyota’s push reflects broader industry pressure to electrify its lineup. The company’s former CEO Akio Toyoda warned in a July interview with Japanese media NHK that the automaker must adapt to new competition and technology from China, stating the company “cannot survive” without doing so.
Key facts
- Toyota’s next-gen Corolla is expected to debut in 2027 as a 2028 model year
- The electric Corolla will offer at least 250 miles of range in single- and dual-motor configurations
- The new hybrid will use a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motor producing about 134 horsepower combined
- The hybrid system will be 10% to 20% more efficient than the current setup
- Estimated pricing: gas from $25,000, hybrid around $27,000, EV and PHEV around $30,000
- The Corolla is the best-selling vehicle ever with over 57 million units sold since 1966