KATHMANDU: Toyota’s upcoming all-electric Corolla Cross has been spotted testing for the first time, ahead of its expected debut in 2027. The new electric SUV was photographed near Toyota’s European headquarters and research and development center.
Images published by Chinese automotive media outlet Autohome show a heavily camouflaged vehicle with a closed-off front grille and a revised body design. The electric model is expected to be part of Toyota’s next-generation Corolla family, which will offer multiple powertrain options.
The Corolla has been one of Toyota’s most successful models since its introduction in 1966, with more than 57 million units sold worldwide. The company is now preparing a major transformation of the nameplate to meet changing customer preferences and growing competition in the global automotive market.
The new model is expected to use Toyota’s upcoming multi-pathway platform, designed to accommodate different powertrain technologies. The platform will allow the company to develop electric, hybrid and petrol-powered versions under the same model family.
Toyota has not revealed the technical specifications of the electric Corolla. However, the EV is expected to be available with single-motor and dual-motor configurations, offering a claimed driving range of at least 400 km.
The production model is expected to retain some design elements from the Corolla Concept, although the spy images suggest a distinctive body shape. A large COROLLA badge is also visible at the rear.
The hybrid version is reportedly being developed with a new 1.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine paired with an electric motor. The system is expected to produce around 134 horsepower and deliver 10 to 20 percent better efficiency than the current Corolla.
Toyota has not confirmed the final specifications or market availability of the electric version.
