Next-gen Toyota Corolla spotted testing, could spawn up to 8 variants including Proton Arena-style pick-up

It appears that the next-generation Toyota Corolla has entered an advanced stage of development as it moves closer to its unveiling.

In a short clip from NHK’s ‘Inside Toyota’ segment, which was shared on the broadcaster’s official X account, a mysterious test mule believed to be the next Corolla can be seen undergoing testing at Toyota’s test facility.

Interestingly, although a large portion of the car has been blurred out and hidden under black covers, it is quite clear that the bodywork appears to be very similar to the current-generation Prius. That said, Toyota could simply be using Prius body panels to build a running prototype, also known as a 'development mule'.

In a separate post on X, user Oriba (@oriba080) shared a screenshot that appears to have also been taken from NHK’s Inside Toyota report, showing the same test mule inside a factory. Judging by the lack of rear door handles (the Prius’ rear door handles are integrated into the C-pillar) as well as the overall roof line, it appears that the test mule is indeed wearing Prius bodywork.

Things get even more interesting in Oriba’s second post, which features a series of screenshots from the same programme. The first two images appear to offer a glimpse into Toyota’s future Corolla family, suggesting that the next generation could spawn more than just the familiar sedan body style.

A large display screen shows at least 8 blurred vehicle silhouettes, suggesting that the new Corolla could spawn a similar number of variants, likely tailored for different markets around the world.

Apart from a sedan, the next Corolla is expected to be offered in hatchback, Touring (wagon), and Cross (SUV) body styles, with a GR version also reportedly in the works. Interestingly, a Proton Arena-style pick-up truck also appears to be part of the plan, potentially targeting markets such as Brazil, South Africa, and Australia.

Another image, which appears to be a presentation slide, shows the outline of a more traditional 3-box sedan. Accompanying it are Japanese texts that translate to “a silhouette unique to a BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) implemented in an ICE (internal combustion engine) vehicle”, along with phrases such as “low hood”, “large-diameter tyres”, “short overhangs”, and “spacious cabin”. These clues likely hint at Toyota’s design direction for the next Corolla.

Whatever the case may be, the next-generation Corolla is expected to adopt a sharper design than the current model, if the Corolla Concept is anything to go by. The front fascia could feature Toyota’s latest interpretation of its ‘hammerhead’ design language, while the rear may incorporate a pixel-style full-width light bar spanning the tailgate.

Of course, the production model will likely be toned down significantly, but the concept suggests that Toyota is moving away from the Corolla’s traditionally conservative and understated design approach.

As for what lies under the bonnet, it is still too early to say. However, earlier reports suggest that Toyota’s new 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine could be paired with hybrid (HEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) systems. The latter has also been reported to involve technology sourced from BYD.