The automaker is reportedly looking at developing a smaller pickup to sit under the Tacoma.
Rumours say this model could be built on the same platform as the Corolla.
This pickup will probably not arrive before 2027.
Pickup trucks have been gaining in popularity over the last few years and automakers are trying to expand the segment with smaller subcompact models.
This trend began in North America when Ford and Hyundai launched the Maverick and Santa Cruz, two SUV-based pickups that are significantly smaller than traditional compact entries into the segment.
Rumours now say that Toyota could be looking into this market with a new pickup that could be based on the Corolla.
Unsurprisingly, this model would sit under the Tacoma in the brand’s lineup and its unibody construction and car-based platform would make it a direct competitor to the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz.
Few details are known at the moment since this model is still only little more than a rumour, but the company is reportedly about to take a decision on whether to produce it or not.
Despite sharing its platform with both the Corolla sedan and the Corolla Cross SUV, the pickup is expected to be built alongside the sedan in Mississippi rather than in Alabama where the Corolla Cross is made in a factory shared with Mazda.
Given that the project hasn’t even been confirmed yet, it is more likely that the Corolla pickup will be based on the next generation of the popular sedan and crossover series.
Indeed, Automotive News says not to expect such a vehicle at Toyota dealerships before at least 2027, possibly later.
This will not be the first subcompact Toyota pickup ever, however, since the company showed a prototype last year for a light commercial pickup with looks taken from the Compact Cruiser EV concept.
While this model is expected to reach customers as soon as 2024, the fact that it will be aimed at emerging markets means we are unlikely to see it in North America.
Source: Automotive News via Motor1.com
