A facelifted version of the GAC-produced
Toyota Corolla (Levin) has been poached by photographers in China flaunting
more aggressive styling details than the current compact (and which mimic the
updated North American XSE model).
The following images, sourced from
Autohome, reveal revised front and rear fascias for the sedan. At the front,
there remain the same sharp headlights as the Corolla models sold in overseas
markets. However, the graphics of the lights appear to have been modified and
now incorporate re-shaped LED daytime running lights. In addition, the Toyota
badge has been removed from in between the headlights and shifted onto the
hood.
Notable alterations have also been made to
the front grille with it now sporting a new black mesh design and gloss black
surround. A more angular bumper complements the tweaked grille and consists of
black air intakes and horizontal lights. There’s also an additional front chin
spoiler. Some changes are also present at the rear. The most obvious in an
aggressive diffuser identical to what the Corolla XSE in the U.S. features.
There is also a new black mesh design above this diffuser.
Despite the thoroughly revised front and
rear fascias, no mechanical modifications are thought to have been made. This
means the sedan will continue to be based on Toyota’s TNGA architecture and is
sold locally with the choice of a 1.2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine
with 116 hp as well as the hybrid 1.8-liter Atkinson cycle naturally-aspirated
four-pot producing 98 hp paired to an electric motor, which in U.S. spec. is
rated at a combined 121 hp.
