European Toyota Corolla facelift breaks cover

Less than a day after the North American version broke cover, Toyota Europe has ripped the covers off its facelifted 2022 Toyota Corolla range, potentially providing a better look at the upgraded Corolla that’s due on sale in Australia around October.

And while it might look largely the same, the upgraded Euro Corolla packs a couple major differences to its trans-Atlantic counterpart.

The biggest differences can be found inside the cabin of top-tier variants, which sport a new 10.5-inch infotainment interface – run by the latest software – while mid-range variants and above will ship with an equally new four-mode 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.

On top of the new software and displays, drivers will also be treated to a new and improved voice recognition system specifically designed to pick up on “natural, conversational requests” when it comes to infotainment and vehicle functions – including opening the windows.

As we reported yesterday, we don’t yet know exactly what Toyota Australia has in store for its upcoming Corolla update, but we do know an infotainment upgrade will be one of the key changes, on top of some extra kiloWatts from the 1.8-litre hybrid powertrain.

Already confirmed to develop a combined 98kW, Australian Corolla hybrids will be seemingly down on power compared to European versions (104kW), which will also be treated to a lighter and more efficient lithium-ion battery.

A gruntier 2.0-litre hybrid powertrain will also be available in Europe, developing a warm hatch-worrying 146kW, but there’s been no indication yet from Toyota Australia that this powertrain will make it here, let alone the new 1.8-litre hybrid all-wheel drive model just revealed in the US.

Like the North American line-up, the European Corolla range has been treated to a cosmetic nip and tuck largely revolving around a new mesh grille pattern, revised fog light bezels and fresh alloy wheel designs.

The tweaked looks are matched within the cabin not only by the new screens, but also by new trim patterns, textures and finishes.

“With fresh styling, the introduction of fifth generation hybrid electric technology, a comprehensively upgraded digital user experience and an extended range of Toyota T-Mate safety and assistance features, the New Corolla is equipped to strengthen its role as a core volume model for Toyota in Europe,” said Toyota Europe.

“Its enduring appeal is reflected in the fact it has achieved its highest market share in Europe in its history and is Toyota’s second best-selling model in the region.”

First European deliveries of the refreshed Corolla are slated to start in the first quarter of next year – at least two or three months after the projected arrival of the updated Australian line-up.

As mentioned above though, Toyota Australia is keeping finer details of its local Corolla update close to its chest for now.

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