The E170/E180 series Toyota Corolla is the eleventh-generation of the Corolla that has been sold internationally since 2013. Two basic front and rear styling treatments are fitted to the E170—a North American version that debuted first—and a more conservative design for all other markets that debuted later in 2013. For the Japanese and Hong Kong markets, the smaller and unrelated E160 model is offered instead; the Japanese version remains compliant with Japanese government dimension regulations. The E170/E180 has an increased wheelbase that is 100 mm (3.9 in) longer than the previous generation. The E170/E180 derives from the Toyota New MC platform, unlike the E160 based on the B platform.

The ZR engine is a family of straight-four 16-valve all-aluminum and water cooled gasoline engines with a die-cast aluminum block and variable valve timing developed by Toyota Motor Corporation, produced from 2007. Engines displace from 1.6 to 2.0 liters. Most engines in this family are equipped with Toyota's dual VVT-i technology that optimizes both intake and exhaust valve timing. This engine family is also the first to use Toyota's Valvematic system, first appearing on the Noah and Voxy in 2007 and then the European Avensis in 2009.