Toyota to launch model wave

The mainstream Camry is set for a complete re-make, the baby Yaris will be renewed and the funky FJ Cruiser will add some Gen-Y impact to local showrooms.

But there is much more in 2011 - including the preview of the production version of the make-or-break FT-86 sports car - from Toyota.

Among the likely previews are a set of Prius hybrid spin-offs led by a people mover and a coupe - and perhaps including a pickup - and a late-year showing of the next Corolla, most likely at the Tokyo Motor Show.

"Toyota policy is we don't comment on any potential future product," says Mike Breen of Toyota Australia. "We have three major launches next year."

He stonewalls on anything beyond the big three, even though leaked plans from the USA highlight the amount of new product coming from the world's biggest carmaker.

The RAV4 is set for a remake in 2012 following a preview in '11, probably with some sort of hybrid drive system, while the Kluger could also get a facelift later next year.

"The years following 2011 will see us start to introduce new models. it's not going to all come at once, it will happen over a couple of years in a gradual process," says Breen.

"The only model we can talk about is FJ Cruiser, which will be launched in March next year, that's already on the record."

The update on the Yaris will bring a six-speed automatic gearbox and probably a 1.5-litre starter engine, with a hybrid model also on the cards.

The Camry will be completely new and much bolder than the current car and will continue to be build at Altona in Melbourne, with a hybrid model.

The other crucial model is the next Corolla, set for a preview late in 2011 and sales in 2012. Toyota extended the life of the current model so the next change is likely to be a big one.