ALFA Romeo turned glamour...
ALFA Romeo turned glamour and style up to the max with the show debut of the landmark MiTo.
However, sources in...
However, sources in Japan have told us the rear end is inspired by the home market-only family model, named "Ist". Three and five-door prototypes with disguised bodywork are lapping Germany"s Níƒá¼rburgring circuit, with engineers refining the suspension settings on the new platform underpinning the car.
Sitting on Toyota"s recently developed 300N/MC chassis, the Corolla will also provide the basis for nine fresh models from the firm, including the next RAV4, Avensis and Previa. Insiders say the new design makes the 300N/MC the most versatile vehicle platform in the world.
An equally ambitious engine range is also being developed. Although a hybrid system based on the Prius isn"t likely, there will be new direct-injection petrol motors and a selection of fresh diesels. Two oil-burning flagships will debut in 2007, both based around the acclaimed 2.2-litre turbo. Buyers will get the choice of 148bhp or 175bhp, and the units will appear in the revised Avensis line-up as well. Power will be fed to the road via five or six-speed manual gearboxes, with a CVT semi-automatic also on offer.
A facelifted Corolla Verso is under development, too, but as the current car only recently hit the road, this won"t appear until at least 2009. A concept hinting at the hatchback is expected at October"s Tokyo Motor Show, although there"s no word on prices yet.