Toyota is testing an electric Corolla Cross — could it be its next release?

An electric prototype with a modified body of the Corolla Cross previews Toyota’s upcoming technology. The brand is developing a platform capable of housing hybrid and electric versions, with the next Corolla expected around 2028.

Toyota is testing new electric technology on roads, though the car chosen for this purpose bears little resemblance to the final model. Photos published by various media show a heavily modified Corolla Cross, with camouflage, temporary headlights, and proportions that don’t match those of the SUV we know.

The most interesting part lies precisely in those differences. It is a test mule, a vehicle that uses an adapted body to test components before the production design is finalized. Therefore, these images provide clues about Toyota’s technical work, but they still don’t reveal what the next Corolla Cross will look like.

A modified Corolla Cross for testing new technology

The prototype retains recognizable elements from the Corolla Cross, especially in the interior and the shape of the windows. However, its body is considerably shorter than that of the regular model. This modification indicates that Toyota has adapted an existing structure to meet the needs of the vehicle it wants to test.

The front end also draws attention. Beneath the camouflage are temporary round headlights mounted on a body with adjustments and parts that would hardly make it to a dealership in this state. Their purpose at this stage is to allow the car to move and for engineers to test its functionality without having to install the final exterior components yet.

A platform for hybrid and electric versions

According to reports, Toyota is developing a new modular platform compatible with hybrid and electric powertrains. The goal is to use this platform for future models, including the next generation of the Corolla, thereby expanding the possibilities of a vehicle series historically associated with internal combustion engines and more recently, hybrids.

A design of this type requires addressing different needs. An electric version needs space for the battery and its associated systems, while a hybrid must also accommodate the internal combustion engine and its other components. The challenge lies in ensuring that each variant makes optimal use of the available space.

The images do not yet reveal how Toyota has addressed this issue. They also provide no information regarding battery capacity, range, power, or charging speed. The presence of a test vehicle on the road indicates that development work is underway, but it does not allow for specific performance details to be inferred about the future model.

For the buyer, the usefulness of this strategy will depend on the final outcome. Being able to choose between different powertrains within the same family can enhance its appeal, as long as the electric versions offer competitive features and efficient use of interior space and trunk space.

The next Corolla is expected around 2028

Rumors suggest that the next generation of the Toyota Corolla will arrive around 2028, with electric versions set to be available for the first time. It is also anticipated that its design will undergo significant changes, although the photographed prototype does not show how this evolution will translate to the final vehicle body.

A new Corolla Cross is set to arrive shortly to complement the lineup with a model in the B-segment. This is a highly sought-after segment in Europe, where it could fit perfectly to compete against European and Chinese brands.