TOYOTA has unveiled its most European car ever in the shape of the new Corolla. This car follows a completely European design, borrowing only the chassis from the Japanese version, and marks a radical departure for Toyota.

Seven countries have had an input at every stage of the new Corolla's design process, creating a car which seeks to add character to Toyota's traditional worthy qualities of reliability and cost-effectiveness.

Wahei Hirai, general manager and chief designer of Toyota Motor Corporation, said: 'Cost and quality have been the main focus of Japanese manufacturers in Europe, but our competitors have improved their cost and quality so we must offer much more to capture the imagination and offer cars which appeal to emotions as well as the brain.'

The headlight design of the new Corolla borrows heavily from the round, twin-spot configuration of the Celica and Lexus coupe, while the grille takes its cue from the Rav4's honeycomb. When the new Corolla goes on sale in June four model variants will be available - a three door hatchback, four door saloon, five door liftback, and five door estate - varying substantially from the B pillar to the back.