Toyota SA's Corolla evolution: exclusive hybrid models for Hatchback and Sedan

Toyota South Africa has trimmed back the Corolla Hatchback and Corolla Sedan ranges to a single derivative each, both now offered exclusively as the 1.8-litre Hybrid Electric Vehicle in XR specification, dropping the XS hybrid grades and the 2.0-litre petrol XR models.

This comes as a result of the declining demand in the traditional sedan and hatchback segments, alongside a broader industry and consumer shift towards electrified mobility solutions and reduced emissions.

Storied history

The Corolla is one of the most significant nameplates in automotive history. Now in its 12th generation, it has sold more than 50 million units worldwide since it was first launched in 1966. What started as a compact sedan has evolved continuously, adapting to changing tastes, regulations and technologies for decades.

In South Africa, that evolution has been particularly visible. The Corolla Hatchback arrived in 2018, replacing a long line of predecessors that included the Conquest, RunX and Auris.

In 2021, Toyota took the Corolla badge and wrapped it in an SUV with the launch of the Corolla Cross.

It went on to dominate the 2022 South African Car of the Year Awards, winning the overall title as well as category honours, including recognition for its hybrid variant.

It continued a tradition that started in the 1980s, the front-wheel-drive Corolla claiming the inaugural SA Car of the Year title and repeated the feat a few years later with the GLi Twin Cam.

Today, the Corolla badge stretches from the hardcore GR Corolla to the family-focused Corolla Cross. The streamlined Hatchback and Sedan ranges sit in the middle, now positioned as hybrid-first offerings.