Toyota Prepares New Corolla Version — First-Ever Pickup Body. Toyota is testing a pickup truck based on the Corolla Cross on Brazilian roads. The new model is expected to hit the market no earlier than 2027 and will be the first pickup version in the history of the model. Gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid variants are anticipated.
A prototype of the Toyota Corolla pickup truck has been spotted on Brazilian roads—the first time in the model’s history. Judging by photos published on social media, the Japanese manufacturer has already begun road testing the new version, although its official debut is still a few years away.
The upcoming model is based on the Corolla Cross platform, already known as a practical and popular crossover. For the pickup, Toyota engineers have notably lengthened the body to accommodate a full-size cargo bed. The test vehicle features square wheel arches, massive roof rails, an extended rear overhang, and wide taillights, setting it apart from the standard Corolla Cross.
Testing and plans
According to Autobild, the tests are taking place on the roads of São Paulo. Despite heavy camouflage, the main structural changes are clearly visible. The front end is almost identical to the regular Corolla Cross, but the rear has been completely redesigned to fit the pickup format. This move allows Toyota to enter the growing light truck market, where competition is becoming increasingly fierce.
The production version is not expected before 2027. Preliminary information suggests the pickup will offer three powertrains: a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter gasoline engine, a hybrid version, and a plug-in option. All will be built on the TNGA architecture, which is already used in the brand’s latest models.
Market significance
The Corolla is Toyota's best-selling car in history, and the company has repeatedly shown its willingness to experiment with different formats. The launch of a pickup based on the Corolla Cross could be an important step in strengthening the brand’s position in South America, where demand for such vehicles remains consistently high. It is still unknown whether this version will appear in Europe, but there is already considerable interest in the new model among fans of the brand.
In the coming years, Toyota will continue to expand the Corolla lineup, offering both sporty and utilitarian versions. If the pickup project proves successful, similar solutions may appear in other markets as well.
