English 
Spanish 
4 min read
4 comments
Toyota surprises and announces the launch of the Corolla pickup truck for 2027. Based on the TNGA platform, the new product promises to rival the Fiat Toro and other models, featuring a PHEV flex hybrid engine with more than 220 horsepower.
The Brazilian automobile market is about to witness a real earthquake.
While many thought that major movements in the sector were far away, Toyota has released a news story that promises to shake things up: the Corolla, one of the Japanese brand's most iconic cars, will become a pickup truck.
Confirmation of this launch paves the way for a fierce competition between models already established in the segment and this bold bet by Toyota. But what exactly can we expect from this new product?
- Citroën Basalt challenges Fiat Fastback sales with a turbo engine that does 13,6 km/L and a price in the range of R$ 89 thousand!
- In the R$13.000 range, Renault has a model with a 1.6 16V engine and 106 hp of power with an average consumption of 13 km/l!
- Goodbye Toyota Yaris Cross? New Chery iCAR 03 SUV does more than 30 km per liter and hits the automotive market in the range of R$ 130 thousand
- Volkswagen Passat 2018: The luxury and sporty sedan that offers more for less than a Virtus
Release Details
According to information released by the Mobiauto magazine, Toyota revealed that the arrival of the long-awaited Corolla pickup is scheduled for 2027, and no longer for the beginning of 2026, as initially speculated.
This postponement was confirmed during a meeting with the dealer network in Brazil and generated great expectations.
This launch, however, will share the stage with other equally anticipated models: the Renault Niagara and the new Volkswagen Tarok, scheduled for the same year.
The mission is clear: to directly challenge market leaders such as Fiat Toro, Chevrolet S10 and even the veteran Toyota Hilux.
Design and dimensions
One of the most intriguing aspects is the use of the TNGA platform, the same one found in the Corolla sedan and the Corolla Cross SUV.
This choice guarantees a reliable and modern base, in addition to facilitating the integration of components between models, such as hood, fenders and front doors.
In terms of dimensions, the Corolla pickup promises to be similar to the Fiat Toro, with approximately 5 meters in length and a 3-meter wheelbase.
These measurements are ideal for conquering the intermediate pickup segment, which combines robustness and practicality in the same package.
Hybrid powertrain and performance
One of the big differences of this new pickup truck is its propulsion system.
As highlighted by the Autos Segredos website, the model will not feature the traditional HEV hybrid system used in Corolla models, but rather a PHEV flex system, an evolution of the engine already present in the Toyota RAV4.
This system should include a 2.5 naturally aspirated flex engine, combined with two electric motors, delivering power in excess of 220 horsepower.
Furthermore, the presence of four-wheel drive reinforces the pickup's appeal as a robust and efficient vehicle, ready to tackle any terrain.
Fuel consumption
Another positive point is fuel consumption, which should be one of the best in the segment.
Based on the RAV4 PHEV data released by Inmetro, the expectation is that the pickup truck will reach around 14 km/l in the city and 12,9 km/l on the highway when fueled with gasoline.
These numbers put the model in an advantageous position compared to its competitors.
Furthermore, the possibility of using ethanol in the flex system guarantees greater savings for the Brazilian consumer, since the combination of electric engines with alternative fuels has been gaining popularity in the country.
Futuristic concept and visual inspiration from Toyota
In 2023, Toyota revealed a unibody pickup truck concept called the EPU during the Tokyo Motor Show in Japan.
Although it is still a prototype, the model presents futuristic features that could influence the design of the Corolla pickup.
This strategy of combining innovation and functionality reflects the brand's commitment to offering a product that is modern and attractive to the Brazilian consumer.
The EPU concept's look highlights bold, aerodynamic lines, elements that can be softened in the final version to balance functionality and aesthetics.
Still, the pickup truck is likely to maintain modern and innovative details, such as LED lights and premium finish.
Toyota confirms Corolla pickup for 2027 with futuristic design, PHEV flex hybrid engine and promise of low consumption. (Image: projection Kleber Silva/KdesignAG)
Market strategy in Brazil
Toyota knows that entering the mid-size pickup truck segment is not a simple task. However, the brand is confident in its consolidated reputation in Brazil, mainly due to the success of the Hilux.
The Corolla pickup truck will arrive with the mission of expanding this legacy and winning over an audience that seeks power, economy and reliability in a single vehicle.
The intermediate pickup truck segment is one of the most competitive in Brazil, but also one of the most profitable.
The Fiat Toro, for example, has led the market since its launch in 2016, showing that there is a great appetite for models that combine performance with versatility.
With the arrival of the Corolla pickup, Toyota intends to conquer a significant share of this audience.
Challenges and opportunities for Toyota
Despite all the anticipation, the launch will not be free of challenges.
The delay to 2027 puts the Corolla pickup in direct competition with equally anticipated models, such as the Renault Niagara and the Volkswagen Tarok.
This fierce competition will require Toyota to invest heavily in marketing, as well as ensuring competitive prices and excellent value for money.
Still, Toyota's track record in Brazil offers an important advantage. The brand has a history of producing reliable and well-reviewed vehicles, a factor that can influence consumers' choices.
And you, do you think the Corolla pickup will be able to surpass competitors such as the Fiat Toro and Chevrolet S10 in the Brazilian market? Leave your opinion in the comments!
Toyota has not publicly released the launch date. The information was obtained by Mobiauto.
I'm sure it will beat the competition
…and the price will beat the competition??