The new Corolla Hatchback will take to the track for the opening round of the 2019 season at Brands Hatch at the same time as the road-going model arrives in British showrooms next spring.

The Corolla campaign is being masterminded by Cheshire-based Speedworks Motorsport, a team with a reputation as the BTCC’s leading giant-killers while Ingram posted nine victories and regular front-running performances in the Toyota Avensis, securing both the Independent Team and Driver trophies in 2017 and 2018.

Team Toyota GB with Speedworks Motorsport team principal Christian Dick said: “We have been establishing an ever-closer relationship with Toyota GB for the past few years, nurturing that bond through our common passion for motorsport, engineering excellence and, ultimately, success. Our new relationship with them will enable us to take that final step and really push for the overall BTCC title.”

Andrew Cullis, Toyota GB marketing director, added: “Bringing the Corolla name and Team Toyota GB back to the British Touring Car Championship in 2019 is a great way of helping us launch this important, all-new British-built car. Speedworks Motorsport and Tom Ingram have a winning track record and we look forward to working with them throughout the coming season.”