Updated Corolla from FAW Toyota and Levin L from GAC Toyota have received an extended wheelbase and a modernized multimedia system focused on local preferences.
The Corolla from the Toyota and FAW joint venture, with its extended wheelbase, externally resembles the Prius thanks to its changed "hammer"-style headlights and minimalist front bumper.
Compared to the regular Corolla, this version has an additional 50 mm between the axles — an important change for the Chinese market, which values rear passenger space. With a wheelbase of 2750 mm, the updated model surpasses the discontinued European Avensis, although it falls short of the Camry with its 2825 mm.
The rest of the body mainly repeats the previous model. The most noticeable addition is a new LED strip linking the rear lights, borrowed from the Allion, another Corolla derivative with a long wheelbase manufactured by FAW Toyota.
The interior is completely redesigned: a new front panel with horizontal lines and updated trim. The buttons on the central console have disappeared, replaced by a larger 12.9-inch standalone display, complemented by an 8.8-inch digital instrument panel.
The central tunnel is also 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 included as standard equipment.
The GAC Toyota Levin L retains most of the styling of the previous Levin GT. Externally, it is closer to the American version of the Corolla sedan, maintaining a sportier profile.
Like its counterpart, the Levin L has a lengthened 2750 mm wheelbase, though the visual difference from the standard model is minimal.
The interior is almost the same as in the 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 a turbocharged 1.2-liter engine with 116 hp, a 2.0-liter engine with 170 hp, or a hybrid 1.8-liter system with 135 hp. All versions are front-wheel drive and come with a CVT transmission.
The updated GAC Toyota Levin L and FAW Toyota Corolla will be released in China in the coming weeks. Prices are not yet announced. It is unlikely that similar design and technology updates will appear in Corolla models sold outside the Chinese market.
Source: Carscoops