Toyota to Rebadge European Auris Hatch as Corolla

Toyota Motor Corp. plans to revert to the Corolla name for its Auris small car in Europe when it launches the all-new model next spring.

The switch will mark the end of the Auris worldwide. Toyota introduced the name in select markets for the hatchback and wagon versions of the Corolla in 2006, but it continued to use Corolla on sedan variants in all markets.

Toyota unveiled the next-generation European model—using Auris badging (pictured)—at the Geneva auto show. The North American version was unveiled in April at the New York auto show.

The new Corolla rides on the carmaker’s TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture), which also carries the Prius hybrid and C-HR crossover vehicle. Toyota says the new platform, styling changes and hybrid powertrain strategy helped justify the name change from Auris back to Corolla.

The TNGA-based Corolla is longer, wider and lower than the outgoing model. To improve driving dynamics, the car also gets a more rigid body and a multi-link rear suspension.

Three powertrain choices will be available in European models, including a stand-alone 1.2-liter turbocharged engine and two hybrid-electric systems. The previous diesel option is being dropped. Toyota notes that hybrids accounted for 41% of its sales in Europe last year.