Corolla teaser is shape of things to come

MORE details about Toyota's new Corolla concept have been revealed, confirming the company's intention to make this just about the most adaptable single model on sale.

- Jordan Katsianis

Introduced at the Japan Mobility Show, the eye-catching concept might look like pure fiction, but it's closer than you may think to being the Corolla that'll go on sale in 2027.

The saloon show car reveals lots of fresh design directions the production model will take. These range from a new take on the three-box shape, to the digital interfaces-everything on the concept is relevant - and now we know Toyota's new global car will be offered with pure ICE, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and all-electric power.

There won't be any compromises on passenger or luggage space, because the floor will be variable enough to fit batteries underneath, and an internalcombustion engine will fit under the bonnet. This will give Toyota maximum flexibility wherever the car is sold in the world, whether that be EV-hungry Europe, or more conservative ICEfriendly places such as the US.

One engine option that has been detailed so far is a brand-new and highly efficient 1.5-litre four-cylinder hybrid. Following the flexible theme, it'll come initially as a series hybrid layout with a planetary gear set-upmuch like the current model - right through to being used as a back-up engine for a plug-in hybrid.