The compact pickup truck segment has gained strength in key markets such as the United States and South America. After months of speculation and leaks, Toyota has finally broken its silence and confirmed that it is preparing a model for this competitive niche, although customers will have to wait a few more years to see it on the streets.

The confirmation came through Cooper Ericksen, president of planning for Toyota Motor North America, who in an interview with Motor Trend magazine clearly stated that the project is underway. "We have already made the decision. The question now is when we can launch it. It's no longer a question of if," said the executive, dispelling any doubts about the viability of the so-called “Corolla Pick-Up.”

With these words, a clear horizon is established: Toyota's first compact pickup truck for North America will debut in 2027 as a series production model. The United States will be the initial market, discarding the previous idea that Brazil would have the scoop.

United States first, then Latin America

The launch strategy prioritizes the United States, where demand for compact pickup trucks has grown steadily thanks to the success of the Ford Maverick, which has managed to position itself as an affordable and efficient option compared to medium and large pickups.

However, Toyota is not leaving Latin America aside. The Japanese manufacturer is making a significant investment in its Sorocaba plant, Brazil, aimed at modernizing its production lines and incorporating hybrid models.

The compact pickup truck will be produced from there to supply Brazil and other countries in the region, although its debut in the Southern Cone could not take place until 2028.

A direct rival for the Ford Maverick

Toyota's objective is clear: to compete head-to-head with the Ford Maverick, which currently dominates the segment in the United States and also has a strong presence in countries like Mexico and Brazil.

But the competition doesn't end there. In South America, in addition to the Maverick, Toyota's future pickup will have to face the Renault Niagara, a project in development that will be introduced in 2026 with electrified versions.

Toyota aims to offer a varied portfolio that combines traditional combustion engines with hybrid (HEV) versions, before making the leap to more advanced configurations such as plug-in hybrids (PHEV). This range of options will seek to appeal to those who are not yet ready for a 100% electric vehicle, as well as those looking for a more sustainable alternative without sacrificing practicality.

Platform and engine

The technical basis of this pickup will be the TNGA-C platform, the same one that underpins the Corolla Cross. This architecture will allow for a monocoque body, similar to that of an SUV, instead of the traditional string-frame chassis used in midsize and large pickups.

This decision has several advantages: a lower total weight, better fuel efficiency, and more comfortable handling in the city. However, it will also make it less robust compared to traditional pickups such as the Hilux or Tacoma, which is why Toyota plans to position it below them in its range.

In terms of propulsion, there is talk of a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant equipped with a 2.0-liter Dynamic Force engine combined with an electric motor, to deliver up to 223 horsepower. This scheme would be complemented by conventional hybrid (HEV) options as a gateway to electrification.

Design inspired by the EPU Concept

Although official images of the production model are not yet known, there are clear clues about its appearance. Toyota unveiled the EPU Concept at the 2023 Tokyo Motor Show, a compact pickup truck with modern, aerodynamic lines that could serve as inspiration for the future Corolla Pick-Up.

The new model is expected to bear similarities to the Corolla Cross, especially in its front end and part of the cabin, although with a distinct cargo area. Its overall length would be around 5.07 meters, a measurement sufficient to place it between compact SUVs and midsize pickups.

In Toyota's North American offering, the new pickup truck will be positioned below the Tacoma, while in Latin America it will be positioned one step below the Hilux, which will continue to be the robust option focused on heavy work.

In this way, the Corolla Pick-Up will emerge as a more urban and versatile alternative, aimed at customers looking for a practical vehicle, with lower fuel consumption and that combines family uses with light-duty functions.

An expected, but distant launch

Although the official confirmation generates enthusiasm, the wait will be long. The debut is projected for 2027 in the United States and 2028 in South America, which means it will still be several years before the model hits the roads.

Meanwhile, the segment will not stand still. Ford will continue to strengthen the Maverick, Renault will bet on the Niagara, and other manufacturers could join with new proposals.

Toyota's strategy will be to leverage its reputation for reliability and its experience in hybrid powertrains to gain ground when the time comes.