30/10/2026
Could Toyota be about to take hybrid fuel efficiency to a whole new level?
Toyota is developing an all-new 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine specifically for its next generation of hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles, with a targeted fuel economy improvement of more than 15%.
Unlike conventional engines adapted for hybrid applications, this new powerplant has been designed from the ground up to work alongside an electrified drivetrain. Available in naturally aspirated and turbocharged configurations, it will also be paired with smaller, lighter electric motors and more compact power control components.
The potential gains are impressive. A future Corolla Hybrid could theoretically achieve fuel consumption of around 3.4L/100km, based on the projected efficiency improvement.
With Toyota continuing to pursue its multi-pathway strategy, this development reinforces an important point: the evolution of electrification isn't necessarily limited to fully electric vehicles.
Could more efficient combustion engines be the key to making hybrids even more compelling?
Read the full article from CarExpert below.
Toyota is targeting bold economy gains with the engine it'll use in its next-generation hybrid and PHEV models.