Toyota Corolla Altis to go full hybrid in PH this 2026?

Last year, Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) quietly revealed the Corolla Altis GR-S HEV. Not only did it get some neat exterior updates, but the sedan also gets a more high-tech cabin, and a new lithium-ion battery pack that replaces the nickel-metal hydride battery system that powers the electric motor.

Fast forward one year, and it looks like the Corolla Altis lineup will soon consist of hybrid models. This comes after the Department of Energy (DOE) updated its list of recognized hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs).

Recently appearing on the list of recognized HEVs are the Corolla Altis 1.8E HEV CVT and the Corolla Altis 1.8G HEV CVT. Both models are listed as 2026 model year vehicles and are not yet officially launched by TMP. We can confirm this since the automaker still has the Corolla Altis 1.8E CVT and the Corolla Altis 1.8G GR-S CVT in their lineup and are selling for PHP 1.213 million & PHP 1.333 million, respectively.

Based on the initial specifications, the new Corolla Altis HEV models get the same 1.8L hybrid powertrain that powers the 1.8 GR-S HEV CVT and the Corolla Cross models. Both variants are listed to have a maximum engine output of 72 kW or 98 PS and a maximum electric power output of 53 kW or 72 PS. Last but not least, both vehicles have a 0.83 kWh battery pack, which is most likely the lithium-ion battery pack for the hybrid system.

Should TMP launch the new 1.8E and 1.8G HEV models of the Corolla Altis, the compact sedan could soon only be available as a hybrid sedan. This is not surprising since demand for HEVs continues to grow. Just last year, Toyota led HEV sales with 17,904 units out of the 25,737 total units sold in 2025.

For now, Toyota Motor Philippines has yet to announce anything regarding the Corolla Altis lineup going full hybrid. However, we'll be keeping our eyes peeled for any new updates regarding the Corolla Altis HEV.