The Corolla has taken many forms since its debut in 1966. It has been everything from a hatchback to a sedan, wagon and coupe. Some markets even received a small pickup truck, while others received three- and five-door liftbacks. Toyota’s freedom to use the nameplate across such a wide range of body styles has helped it achieve record success, with cumulative deliveries exceeding 55 million units, making it the best-selling vehicle in history.
For the thirteenth generation Corolla It seems that it is heading towards a radical transformation. Still just a concept for now, this stunning sedan rides on 21-inch Y-spoke wheels and offers a clear glimpse into the future of the iconic nameplate. Reflecting the Corolla’s diverse body heritage, Toyota plans to offer a wide range of powertrains: from fully electric to full hybrid and plug-in hybrid models.
A pure internal combustion version is also in the works, and Toyota isn’t ruling out a carbon-neutral ICE Corolla. While details are still limited, the world’s largest automaker has already confirmed the development of a new family of 1.5- and 2.0-liter engines that will be manufactured Smaller, lighter and more efficient than the current ones. Given Corolla’s importance, it would make sense for it to debut these next-generation engines.
It was revealed today in the year 2025 Japan Mobility Exhibition In Tokyo, this concept represents a radical shift in design. Honestly, if it weren’t for the lettering on the back, we wouldn’t have guessed it was a Corolla at all. Gone was the familiar shape, replaced by a sleek, heavy-edged body with an integrated boxy spoiler and light bars at both ends.
Photo by: Toyota
The descending beltline towards the side mirrors is immediately noticeable, as are the frameless door windows that give the concept a premium feel. Interestingly, we count no fewer than three fuel caps: two on the front fenders and one in the rear driver’s side corner. Toyota Presumably it refers to a plug-in hybrid setup with a built-in combustion engine under the small hood.
Inside, the cabin takes an equally bold leap forward from the current Corolla, which was launched in 2018. Physical buttons give way to touch-sensitive switches surrounding the digital instrument cluster. All controls are grouped behind the steering wheel. The car-shaped gear selector, mounted high on a floating console next to the driver, evokes a design closer to a pickup truck than a traditional sedan.
Photo by: Toyota
Of course, concept cars are designed to make a statement. But when an automaker applies an actual production name to one, it usually indicates what’s coming next. The next Corolla may not be as extreme, but it’s clear that Toyota intends to push its design language further than ever before. It’s a risky bet for a car that’s usually safe with design.
And since the current generation is already seven years old, a replacement likely isn’t far away. Toyota wouldn’t want its global bestseller to overstay its welcome in its current form. The next generation Corolla is expected to arrive by late next year or sometime in 2027.
