In the latest filing released by China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), Automotive Industry Watch obtained the declaration information for the new FAW Toyota Corolla. As a facelift model, the new Corolla adopts significant exterior updates and a 50 mm longer wheelbase compared with the current version, now matching the dimensions of the FAW Toyota Allion. Powertrain options will include a 2.0-liter gasoline engine and a 1.8-liter hybrid system, suggesting the new long-wheelbase Corolla may eventually replace the Allion in the lineup.
Design Updates
The new Corolla adopts Toyota’s latest family design. At the front, it features C-shaped headlights inspired by the company’s latest NEV models, along with a reduced grille opening. The lower intake integrates with the lamp clusters, giving even the ICE and hybrid versions a front-end look similar to Toyota’s electric cars. Fog lamps are mounted higher, and two new alloy wheel designs are available. At the rear, changes are subtle: the chrome trim between the taillights is now red with a smoked finish, creating a full-width lighting effect.
Dimensions and Powertrains
The updated Corolla measures 4710/1780/1435 mm with a 2750 mm wheelbase, up 50 mm from the outgoing model (2700 mm). This matches the Allion’s dimensions. Engine choices include a 2.0L naturally aspirated unit (126 kW) for the gasoline version and a 1.8L hybrid system with a naturally aspirated engine (72 kW) paired with a nickel-cobalt-manganese lithium battery pack. The 2.0L option is a new addition to the Corolla lineup.
Corolla’s Legacy in China
The Corolla has been a global bestseller since its debut in Japan in 1966. It entered China in 2004 as the Corolla EX (Huaguan) and was officially localized as “Corolla” in 2007. Over the years, it has become a cornerstone of FAW Toyota’s lineup, with hybrid technology introduced in 2015. The current 12th generation, launched in 2019 on the TNGA platform, offered multiple powertrains including turbo, hybrid, and three-cylinder variants. The new filing represents a mid-cycle facelift of the 12th generation, featuring NEV-inspired styling and an extended wheelbase.
Market Positioning
As a compact sedan, the Corolla competes against sibling Toyota Levin, as well as strong rivals like the Nissan Sylphy, VW Lavida, and VW Bora. However, competition from Chinese automakers has intensified, with models such as the BYD Qin PLUS, Geely Xingrui, Changan Eado, and Chery Arrizo 8 steadily eroding market share.
From January to August 2025, Corolla sales in China totaled 65,410 units, ranking 10th in the compact car segment—far behind the Sylphy (190,376) and Lavida (184,363). Meanwhile, the Allion has struggled badly, with just 1,804 units sold between January and July 2025, and has reported no monthly sales for several consecutive months. This adds weight to speculation that the new long-wheelbase Corolla will directly replace the Allion in Toyota’s portfolio.
