Why didn't the US get the station wagon or hatchback hybrid model that Europe gets? It has so much more potential for storage, tech features, the list goes on.
Station wagon/hatchback hybrid
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The Lexus CT hasn't been sold in the US since the 2017 model year. However, I think you're right that Toyota (and most automakers) would rather sell a crossover (e.g. the Corolla Cross hybrid) because they're more profitable. A couple other reasons are 1) Toyota doesn't think people would buy the hybrid hatchback/wagon and 2) the Prius exists.
I’ve always loved the look of the 12th gen. Corolla hatch and estate in higher trim levels offered in European markets, including the GR Sport. The hatch featured in that video is beautiful, IMO. I would actually pay to have those features if offered here in the US.
Unfortunately, here in the US, neither trim level shown in this video would sell. Currently, a ‘23 loaded XSE hatch crosses the $30,000 mark, too expensive through the eyes of many consumers in the US. Adding the hybrid powertrain and features shown in this video would push both models beyond $33,000, easily. Again, too expensive in the eyes of the typical US consumer. This is well into Camry territory. In addition, as others have stated, the estate would not sell because few people on this continent buy wagons. The Corolla Cross is the type of vehicle people (in general) flock to.
This is unfortunate for someone like me, because I much prefer a loaded small car as a daily driver, compared to a larger vehicle. I wish vehicles like the ones shown in the video were offered here, but I know I’m in the minority.
But you're not alone! I would love a Corolla wagon way more than the Corolla Cross which is just another hideous SUV.
I have a VW wagon and love it but VW discontinued it in favour of... you guessed it... another "me too" SUV. I need the utility of a wagon for our bikes and cycling gear. When the VW croaks I guess it will have to be an SUV of some sorts
The first attempt was ct200h and Prius c. It was shorter, but was too square. The more popular prius hatch was the design that many liked.
Europe has this love affair with wagons or estates. We do not. Many of our wagons were too big. When the Japanese automakers brought the wagon over during the 60’s and 70’s, they did ok. In the 80’s, they weren’t around anymore. Until the late 80’s and 90’s when corolla and Honda accord were in wagon trims. Even then, not many were produced for the US and Canada.
Europe has this love affair with wagons or estates. We do not. Many of our wagons were too big. When the Japanese automakers brought the wagon over during the 60’s and 70’s, they did ok. In the 80’s, they weren’t around anymore. Until the late 80’s and 90’s when corolla and Honda accord were in wagon trims. Even then, not many were produced for the US and Canada.
Definitely hold onto that VW as long as you can because you are correct, when the time comes to replace your wagon, the only options available will likely be CUVs and SUVs. Although there should be options available to meet your need to carry bikes and cycling gear, they won’t look at good!But you're not alone! I would love a Corolla wagon way more than the Corolla Cross which is just another hideous SUV.
I have a VW wagon and love it but VW discontinued it in favour of... you guessed it... another "me too" SUV. I need the utility of a wagon for our bikes and cycling gear. When the VW croaks I guess it will have to be an SUV of some sorts
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