The next Toyota model for the C-segment is likely to be called Corolla, retrieving a tradition that got started in 1966 and then came to an halt four years ago when the Auris (pictured above) made its debut. Apparently, the lack of commercial success of the latter prompted Toyota bosses to turn back to the definitely more evocative and memorable name (which means ‘little crown’ in Latin) that still boasts a pretty loyal fan base. The Japanese carmaker is still selling the Corolla in the U.S., where the model got to its 10th generation and is still pretty successful, having sold in excess of 35 millions unit (which is a record) over a period of 45 years. It has been calculated that over the world a new Corolla model gets sold every 40 seconds.

According to AutoBild, the European version of the new Toyota Corolla will be a little longer than the Auris (which measures 4.22 meters in length) and its engine range will feature a 200 hp supercharged 4-cylinder unit as well as a hybrid variant with lithium-ion batteries. The new model is expected to make its debut in Fall 2012.

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Reports say that Toyota plans to make its first European-produced hybrid car with the Auris model. Production could start from 2012, when the Auris hatchback is due for a full remodelling.

This would make it the third hybrid model in the Toyota range after the Prius, and the Camry (in the US) adding a further option to Toyota’s environmental offering. In the Asia Pacific region, Toyota has previously said that it would introduce a number of hybrid models, among which the Auris (Corolla in that market) would be included.

The Auris has been successful car for Toyota in the European market, being the third best sold in the range in the first five months of this year, after the Yaris and Aygo Light Car models.

New Toyota president Akio Toyoda has said that Toyota will take a new direction in the future, modifying its strategy to be a full-line manufacturer in all regions. One part of the strategy will be to focus on the hybrid model offering in Europe.

Source | Car Advice via Reuters

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