Toyota Considers Corolla-Based Ute to Compete with Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz

So, will Toyota’s Corolla-based ute be able to hold its ground against the competition and carve out its own niche in the market?

Toyota is reportedly exploring the idea of creating a Corolla-based ute, according to a report from Automotive News. This potential vehicle, if approved, would be built alongside the Corolla in Toyota’s Mississippi plant. While it is uncertain whether the model would be exported or manufactured in other plants, it would likely be a left-hand drive exclusive like its competitors.

Toyota may be gearing up to take on the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz with a Corolla-based ute. According to a report from Automotive News, the Japanese automaker is considering the development of a new model that would be built alongside the Corolla sedan in their Mississippi plant. This prospective vehicle is still under discussion and would be a left-hand drive exclusive, similar to its rivals.

While the details are still murky, one thing is clear: Toyota is serious about expanding its line-up of utes. The company has already previewed a modular concept called the IMV 0, which is believed to be built on the underpinnings of the HiLux and features similar styling to the Compact Cruiser concept. Additionally, Toyota South Africa executives have mentioned the development of an upcoming model that is not a half-ton ute. This new ute, set to launch in 2025 or 2026, will be positioned below the HiLux in terms of price and will target developing markets in Africa and other regions where there is demand for small and affordable utes.

The decision to explore the creation of a Corolla-based ute makes strategic sense for Toyota. Currently, the Japanese giant does not have a direct competitor to the Ford Maverick in its lineup, leaving a gap in the market that they could potentially capitalize on. By leveraging the popularity and reputation of the Corolla nameplate, Toyota could attract a significant number of buyers who are looking for a practical yet stylish ute.

However, there are still some uncertainties surrounding this potential model. One key aspect that has not been confirmed is whether Toyota would export the vehicle from the US, like they do with the Kluger, or if they would manufacture it in other plants for markets like Australia. Another question mark is the nameplate that would be used for this new ute. Unlike the Corolla Cross SUV, which shares its name with the popular sedan, it seems likely that Toyota would opt for a different name to distinguish its ute from the Corolla family.

In conclusion, Toyota is exploring the possibility of introducing a Corolla-based ute to compete with the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz. This potential vehicle, if given the green light, would be built alongside the Corolla in Toyota’s Mississippi plant. While it is still unclear when it would go on sale, Toyota may also have another sub-HiLux ute in the works with a potential launch in 2025 or 2026. Ultimately, this move would allow Toyota to fill a gap in its lineup and attract buyers who are in the market for a stylish and practical ute.

So, will Toyota’s Corolla-based ute be able to hold its ground against the competition and carve out its own niche in the market?

• Toyota is considering a Corolla-based ute to rival the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz.
• The vehicle would be built alongside the Corolla in the company’s Mississippi plant.
• If approved, it would not go on sale until at least 2027.
• It is unclear whether the model would be exported or manufactured in other plants.
• Toyota may also have another sub-HiLux ute in the works, with a possible launch in 2025 or 2026.

Toyota is considering the introduction of a Corolla-based ute to compete with the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz. This potential vehicle would be built alongside the Corolla in Toyota’s Mississippi plant. While there are still uncertainties surrounding its release date and manufacturing location, Toyota is clearly focused on expanding its lineup of utes. With another sub-HiLux ute also in the pipeline, Toyota is positioning itself to attract buyers in developing markets who are looking for small and affordable options. Only time will tell if Toyota’s Corolla-based ute will be a hit with consumers.