Toyota Predicts 50 MPG Combined EPA Rating for New 2020 Corolla Hybrid

Toyota has high expectations for the all-new 2020 Toyota Corolla Hybrid. The company says that it expects the new Corolla Hybrid to earn an impressive 50 MPG Combined EPA rating. The 2020 Corolla Hybrid will be the most fuel-efficient model to ever wear the Corolla name that debuted more than a half-century ago. With this high MPG and with electricity prices very high in key EV markets, the Corolla Hybrid will have a cost per mile for energy nearly the same as EVs.

Toyota's says that its new hybrid system combines a 1.8-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with two motor/generators through an electronically controlled planetary-type continuously variable transmission (CVT) transaxle. The total system output of 121 horsepower is lower than most cars this size, but expect torque to be relatively strong.

The new hybrid system from Toyota uses a newly developed nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) battery pack technology called Hyper-Prime Nickel. The idea is to boost battery performance along with providing a more compact lighter package. The battery’ will be located under the rear seat, and will not intrude on trunk space.

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Like most hybrids, the new Corolla will feature an EV mode. This allows the vehicle to be operated as a pure electric vehicle for short distances in certain conditions, such as in parking lots or indoor parking garages. The Corolla will also feature Eco and Sport modes.

The new 2020 Corolla Hybrid will debut in 2019. It will join the hybrid Prius, RAV4, Highlander, Camry, Avalon, and likely the Prius c in Toyota's impressive green vehicle lineup.