Toyota Corolla hatch facelift due November

Toyota Australia will launch a facelifted Corolla hatch by the end of November, but the company has not confirmed whether it will be based on the Japanese Auris, which was released this week.

Toyota's 2010 model Auris -- badged as the Corolla in Australia -- was officially launched in Japan earlier this week, showing off a subtle new design.

The face-lifted 2010 model Auris also gets tweaks to its 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine, in the form of reconfigured variable timing system for the intake and exhaust valves that should bump up power slightly while reducing fuel consumption.

As well as upgraded spec levels on Japanese domestic models, plus improved interior materials, trim colours and the addition of paddle shifters for CVT models, the most obvious change to the 2010 model Auris is the external design.

New headlights and a revised front fascia distinguish the 2010 model from its predecessor, as do the updated rear apron, brake lights and alloy wheels. Toyota Australia told the Carsales Network that it would launch a facelifted Corolla hatch locally at the end of November.

However when asked if the design would be the same as the Auris pictured, Toyota Australia's spokesperson said they "cannot confirm it will be this one," adding that "facelifts differ from market to market."

We'll bring you more details on the updated Corolla soon, but expect the Australian market Corollas to benefit from mild interior and specification changes in addition to the visual updates.

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