The numbers are showing that the automotive sector has emerged from the grip of the recession and reaching pre-2007 levels once again. Automakers reported sales of about 14.5 million vehicles in the States last year, a 13 percent increase from 2011 and the highest annual total since 2007. If the trend continues, we’ll be seeing more and newer models entering the market, especially from top brands like Toyota.

This week, Automotive News came out with a report on the Japanese firm’s upcoming product line for the North American market, which includes several redesigns over the course of the next two to three years.

In the small and compact car market, Toyota is said to replace the Yaris with a new Mazda2-based model, which may only be offered as a sedan, possibly with a different name, beginning in mid-2015. The new generation of the Corolla has already been introduced and will go on sale this fall, while the current Matrix will be the last, at least in the U.S., as it may carry on in Canada for an extra year.

The report mentions the Scion FR-S stating that Toyota has abandoned plans for a convertible and a turbocharged model because they were “deemed too expensive for their limited volumes”. For what it’s worth, Toyota has presented a near-production, convertible version of the GT 86/ FR-S, so we’re not so sure if it has been axed. As for the Supra, we’re told that the new coupe currently being co-developed with the BMW Group may be a spiritual successor to this model.

In the medium and large segments, the Camry is expected to receive a facelift in 2014, while the Avalon will continue as is since it’s completely new.

Moving onto Toyota’s expanded lineup of dedicated hybrids, the new Prius liftback is said to arrive in early 2015 with a more sophisticated powertrain, while the Prius C hatchback and Prius V minivan will remain unchanged.

Other models that will continue as is include the revamped Highlander 7-seater crossover, the FJ Cruiser SUV, the Venza crossover that Autonews says may be a “one-and-done” product due to mediocre sales, the Land Cruiser and the recently refreshed Tundra pickup truck.

That leaves us with the following models: the new hydrogen-powered HFC expected in early 2015; the redesigned RAV4 that may gain Toyota’s rumored 2.0-liter turbo’d four at a later stage; the Sienna minivan, said to be replaced in late 2016 as will the 4Runner SUV; the Sequoia SUV that could gain a minor refresh and the Tacoma, which is said to be redesigned in late 2014.

Thanks to Tuan for the heads up!

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