We continue our exploration of the history of the most popular vehicles on the market with a small Japanese car that makes a big impression! The Toyota Corolla is the best-selling car in the world, with over fifty million units sold. Indeed, although over here we tend to favor large pick-up trucks or SUVs, such as the F-150, internationally, people actually prefer the Corolla!
It may not have the sales volume of the F-150 in Canada, but it still ranks extremely high on the charts. For 2021, it is the second most popular passenger car model after the Honda Civic and eighth overall. With 40,000 units sold, it represents almost 2.5% of Canadian purchases in the last year. In my opinion, it deserves to be considered! So, here is the amazing story of the Toyota Corolla!
A classic since 1966
It all started almost sixty years ago, in 1966, when the first Corolla left the Toyota plant in Takaoka. Initially intended for the Japanese market, it was quickly exported internationally, first to Australia. It was not until 1968 that the American market saw the first Corolla. In the midst of an energy crisis, the public was open to this vehicle that consumes little fuel and rarely needs repair.
Over the years, the Corolla has changed, but it has kept its reputation as a reliable, fuel-efficient vehicle through all its generations! The Japanese company has never stopped improving it. We can mention the addition of a five-door version in the early 1980s or the great improvement of its aerodynamics during the following decade.
The Toyota Corolla remains dominant
It was in the year 2000 that the Corolla as we know it really started to take shape. With its new design, modern curves and technological updates, it was ready for the new millennium! Since then, it has more different versions than ever, such as a hybrid and a wagon version. Its technology has also been greatly improved, but you’d expect that!
Across the globe, more than a million Corollas are sold every year. In North America, 2016 holds the record with nearly 500,000 units sold. To accompany such a reliable vehicle, you need equally reliable tires. With spring just around the corner, why not equip it with Hankook Optimo H426 or Firestone FT140 tires? Both offer unparalleled grip and help you stay confident on the road!
