Toyota has been caught testing a compact, SUV-derived ute based on the Corolla Cross in Brazil, marking the first physical prototype sighting of what’s been rumored as the Toyota Stout after years of speculation.
Key Details:
- The prototype was spotted on the Castelo Branco Highway in São Paulo, Brazil
- The vehicle is expected to be aimed at South and Central American markets with petrol or plug-in hybrid powertrain options
- This Corolla Cross-based ute is unlikely to reach Australia or North America, where Toyota is instead developing a RAV4-based pickup truck
- The compact monocoque ute segment is competitive in Brazil, with competitors including the Fiat Toro, RAM Rampage, Ford Maverick, and Chevrolet Montana
- Toyota executives have confirmed to Automotive News that a RAV4-based pickup is being considered for North America
Why It Matters: The prototype confirms Toyota is actively developing compact monocoque utes for specific regional markets, though whether such a vehicle would appeal to Australian buyers remains uncertain, especially given that similar offerings from Ford and Hyundai haven’t been introduced locally.
Source: Flagra Mundial: Nova picape Toyota Corolla - BlogAuto
