First generation was introduced in 1997, Corolla Spacio, with its body panels stamped at long-time Toyota supplier Kanto Autoworks, was introduced as a two-box minivan version and sold as the Corolla Verso, which was technically similar to the Avensis in Europe and the Spacio in New Zealand.

Unveiled in 2001, The Toyota Corolla Spacio (Verso in Europe) moved on to the new platform in 2004, with later models adding a third row of fold-down seating in the back.