Corolla hybrid push

The next update of the Toyota Corolla is likely to bring one of the biggest changes in the car's 40-year history, with the arrival of the first petrol/electric hybrid model.

A Corolla hybrid is a high priority with the development team behind Toyota's global best-seller, even if there is no firm plan yet for the car expected in 2011.

Australians can definitely expect a diesel Corolla within the life of the current car, which has just hit local roads. Toyota Australia is also keen to introduce a V6 model above the new 1.8-litre four-cylinder sedan and hatch. The diesel is probably coming in 2010.

Executive chief engineer of the Corolla family Soichiro Okudaira says he wants a hybrid.

“Maybe for the next generation of Corolla, as new systems are coming,” he says.

“We cannot say when. I'm not sure. But my personal opinion is that I would like to have it. There is no firm plan. It is technically possible, but we have no plan yet.”

Okudaira says the biggest problem will be cutting the cost of the petrol/electric drive system so it is affordable for Corolla customers.

Toyota is committed to a huge expansion of its hybrids. It is already working on batteries that are lighter and cheaper than the exotic nickel-metal-hydride units it now uses.

It is also working on more advanced powertrain systems morphed from the exotic all-wheel-drive unit just fitted to its new Lexus LS 600h flagship.

A diesel-powered Corolla is much closer, even if Toyota Australia missed the cut for the introduction date to coincide with the 10th-generation car this year.

An engine has been developed for Europe, where the new Corolla hatch is called Auris and aimed at much younger buyers. It could easily be picked up for local use. Toyota is also looking at the 2.4-litre V6 used in a Corolla-based car, the Blade, in Japan, McGregor says.