Toyota’s Most Popular Car to Get Hybrid, PHEV and Electric Variants

Toyota is set to revamp its iconic Corolla, introducing petrol, hybrid, plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and fully electric powertrains for the next-generation model, which is slated to debut as a 2028 production. According to a report by Car and Driver, Toyota is developing a versatile platform that can accommodate traditional petrol engines, as well as fully electric drivetrains.

The concept of this multi-powertrain strategy was showcased at the Japan Mobility Show 2025, where Toyota President and CEO Koji Sato highlighted the potential for battery-electric, plug-in hybrid, hybrid, and internal-combustion powertrains in the Corolla's future.

The upcoming Corolla Hybrid is anticipated to employ a new 1.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine combined with an electric motor. This configuration may generate approximately 134 horsepower, with about 94 hp derived from the engine and the remaining 40 hp from the electric motor. Toyota may also offer an all-wheel-drive version, incorporating an additional electric motor on the rear axle to enhance performance.

Despite the shift towards hybrid power, the Corolla is expected to continue offering a conventional petrol-powered variant. Toyota's new 1.5-liter engine might support turbocharging, or the company could opt for the more potent 2.0-liter four-cylinder unit currently used in the model. The final petrol engine configuration has not been disclosed.

One of the most anticipated features of the next-generation Corolla is the introduction of the first plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version. This model will feature a larger battery pack than its conventional hybrid counterpart, enabling extended electric-only driving before the petrol engine kicks in. However, Toyota has not disclosed the battery capacity, electric-only range, or performance specifications for the PHEV model.

A fully electric Corolla is also expected to join the lineup. The availability of the electric Corolla in various markets, such as the United States, remains to be confirmed. If launched, the electric model may offer single- or dual-motor configurations, potentially delivering a driving range of at least 250 miles (402 kilometers). Despite these reports, Toyota has not officially validated these claims.

Toyota's design vision for the next-generation Corolla was unveiled through a radical concept car presented in 2025. The futuristic design incorporates a more angular and streamlined profile, featuring a heavily sloped windshield, sleek lighting elements, and a more aerodynamic shape. The platform is being engineered to accommodate petrol, hybrid, PHEV, and electric powertrains without significantly impacting passenger or cargo space.

Additionally, the interior is expected to undergo a significant transformation, with larger displays, fewer conventional controls, and a more spacious cabin layout. However, Toyota has not yet revealed the final production design of the Corolla.