The updated Corollas received an increased wheelbase and advanced equipment in China
While the world market awaits the next-generation Corolla, recently shown as a concept, an intermediate update is being launched in China. Before the fully new model's appearance, local buyers will see the facelifted versions of the current sedan.
What is known
The updated Corolla from FAW Toyota and Levin L from GAC Toyota received an increased wheelbase and an upgraded multimedia system tailored to local preferences.
The Corolla from the Toyota-FAW joint venture with an extended wheelbase externally resembles the Prius due to its modified 'hammer' style headlights and minimalist front bumper.
Compared to the regular Corolla, this version gained an additional 50 mm between the axles — an important change for the Chinese market where rear passenger space is valued. With a wheelbase of 2750 mm, the updated model surpassed the discontinued European Avensis, though it falls short of the Camry with its 2825 mm.
The rest of the body mainly mirrors the outgoing model. The most noticeable addition is a new LED strip connecting the rear lights, borrowed from the Allion, another Corolla derivative with a long wheelbase from FAW Toyota.
The interior has been completely redesigned: a new dashboard with horizontal lines and updated trims. The buttons on the central console have disappeared, replaced by a larger 12.9-inch freestanding display, complemented by an 8.8-inch digital instrument panel.
The central tunnel has also been redesigned — now with a simplified layout and more powerful wireless charging. Additionally, new front seats with integrated headrests are installed, and the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 driver assistance system is standard equipment.
GAC Toyota Levin L retains much of the style of the previous Levin GT. Externally, it is closer to the American version of the Corolla sedan, maintaining a more sporty profile.
Like its counterpart, Levin L received an extended 2750 mm wheelbase, although the visual difference with the standard model is minimal.
Inside, the cabin almost mirrors FAW Toyota, but with different trim options. GAC Toyota confirmed that the multimedia system runs on Huawei HiCar 5.0 with a new Qualcomm 8155P chip.
FAW Toyota Corolla and GAC Toyota Levin L are offered with gasoline and self-charging hybrid powertrains.
Buyers can choose between a turbocharged 1.2-liter engine with 116 hp, a 2.0-liter engine with 170 hp, or a 1.8-liter hybrid system with 135 hp. All versions are front-wheel drive and come with CVT transmission.
The updated GAC Toyota Levin L and FAW Toyota Corolla will be released in China in the coming weeks. Prices have not been announced yet. It is unlikely that such design and technology updates will appear in Corolla models sold outside the Chinese market.
Source: Carscoops
