TOYOTA will launch a new small car before the end of the decade following the launch of three concept 'fun' cars at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Traditionally concept cars rarely go into production but Toyota says the designs contained in the three models on display - a five-door hatchback with significant interior space, a multi-purpose load-carrying vehicle and a coupe combining the characteristics of both a sports utility vehicle and a sport coupe - will be seen in a new line of models.

However, Toyota (GB) marketing director Mike Moran said the company had yet to decide how many models the new range would encompass although the models would share the same platform and the same core components. Decisions have also yet to be made on the engine line-up - although the range is likely to feature engines smaller than the 1.3 seen in the Starlet which is currently the manufacturer's smallest engine.

'With the launch of the Ford Ka and the unveiling at the show of the Smart car the small car sector is becoming more and more critical,' said Moran. 'It is a segment in which we are under represented.'