Toyota will reportedly begin producing its next-generation Corolla small car in China from 2028, as the Japanese automotive giant looks to boost its position in the world’s largest new-car market.

According to a report from Nikkei Asia, production of the 13th-generation Corolla will commence through FAW Toyota, which is the joint venture between Toyota and Chinese manufacturer FAW Group, which already produces several Toyota models for the Chinese market.

The new Corolla is expected to use a flexible platform capable of accommodating several different powertrains, including conventional petrol, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, battery-electric and potentially even hydrogen fuel-cell technology.

This approach will allow Toyota to customise different versions of the Corolla to different markets, rather than committing exclusively to electric power as some manufacturers have done in certain parts of the world.

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The next-generation Corolla was previewed by a striking concept at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, featuring futuristic styling, slim LED lighting and a dramatically redesigned interior. At the time, Toyota said that the concept’s flexible architecture would allow petrol and electric versions to share similar proportions and interior space, potentially making the Corolla one of the brand’s most versatile models yet.

However, the announcement doesn’t necessarily mean Australian-spec Corollas will soon be manufactured in China. The current Corolla hatchback and sedan sold locally are sourced from Japan, and Toyota Australia has not announced plans to change that arrangement. It also remains unclear whether the Chinese-built Corolla will differ from versions produced elsewhere.

An Australian launch date for the next-generation Corolla has yet to be confirmed, although its global reveal is expected in 2027.