Toyota seems to be preparing in full swing to take up the upcoming competition in Pakistani automobile market. The Japanese automaker is on the verge of launching the Yaris subcompact sedan on the 27th of March while it has already indicated to introduce a new SUV that will take on the likes of Kia Sportage, Proton X70 and Hyundai Tucson.
Related: First Exclusive Images: 2020 Toyota Yaris in Pakistan
Now according to information the company is working on to introduce the 12th generation Toyota Corolla in Pakistan. As expected it will be slotted above the Yaris variants which will be available in 1.3L and 1.5L engine capacities. The new TNGA-based Corolla will likely appear in Altis grades only and will have higher displacement engines on offer. Therefore the Yaris will take on the City & upcoming Proton Saga whereas the Corolla Altis will efficiently go against the Honda Civic & upcoming Hyundai Elantra.
As per reports the company will begin testing the 12th gen Corolla from the latter half of this year with test mules to be imported from Thailand as CBU. The 12th gen Toyota Corolla was launched in Thai market in September last year and comes available in 6 variants distributed among petrol and hybrid models.
Related: Toyota Corolla Might Not Remain the Best Selling Car in Pakistan
Petrol engine options include a 1.6 liter 1ZR-FBE producing 125 hp and 156 Nm, and a larger 1.8 liter 2ZR-FBE producing 140 hp and 177 Nm; both paired to a CVT gearbox. The Hybrid version utilizes the 2ZR-FXE 1.8 liter engine that churns out 98 hp and 142 Nm, and is paired to a 72 hp/122 Nm electric motor.
It will be too early to predict whether Pakistan will be getting the hybrid variant or not, but since Toyota has already indicated the launch of a hybrid SUV towards the end of this year, the possibility of Corolla Hybrid cannot be ruled out.
Related: Introduction of Yaris will Open Doors to the 12th Gen Corolla in Pakistan
The current 11th generation Toyota Corolla was introduced in Pakistan back in mid 2014 and will be completing its 6 years in our market this July. Although we might come across 12th gen Corolla test mules towards the end of this year, the launch can be expected no sooner than 2021. Stay tuned to CarSpiritPK for more information on 12th gen Toyota Corolla in Pakistan.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
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