Is not easy to surpass the 50 million unit mark, but the Toyota Corolla has done it

After 55 years and over 12 generations, the iconic Toyota Corolla has finally surpassed the 50 millionth production mark. What started out as a vehicle for the masses launched back in 1965 turned into a global icon where some models gaining iconic status, particularly the fourth-gen KE70.

The Toyota Corolla has achieved a number of great achievements, like being the world's best-selling car in 1974 and continued its hot streak throughout the years. This iconic model made its way into the Malaysian market as a CKD model in 1968 which led to Toyota Malaysia's rise in the national automotive industry.

The 1970s saw the Japanese brand taking up the number 1 spot for the best automotive brand when the Corolla became the best-selling model at the time. Over the years, over 300,000 units have been sold right here in Malaysia, and the figure is constantly rising thanks to the introduction of the latest-gen Toyota Corolla Altis and Corolla Cross, the first-ever Corolla SUV variant.

According to Mr. Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor, "The success of the model was due to it being a new standard of automotive excellence in this class of cars, offering customers a dynamic and advanced sedan with luxurious styling. There were also higher levels of safety and the model was friendlier to the environment."

"Each generation, right from the very first, has been a contributor in the brand transformation. From the first generation which began the motorization for the masses to the latest generation which was the basis of the transformation, the Corolla has always been in sync with the changes in society and the economy of Malaysia," added Mr. Ravindran.