Toyota Corolla Concept, Major Transformation in the 13th Generation

KatadataOTO – Toyota is making the Japan Mobility Show (JMS) 2025 the right time to introduce a concept car of the Corolla. As we all know, as a model, the Corolla is a car that has successfully set a sales record of more than 55 million units since it went on sale in 1966. 

This model has gone through evolution after evolution, from hatchback, sedan, wagon to coupe. And Toyota admits that one of the keys to its success is their freedom to use the Corolla name on these various body options. 

In general, without looking at the features at the rear, it feels difficult to characterize this concept car as a Corolla. Its familiar characteristic lines seem to have been replaced with a slim yet sturdy body, integrated with a spoiler and turn signals at both ends.

Essentially, the 13th generation of the Toyota Corolla appears to be undergoing a significant transformation with a vision of the future. Although still a concept, this sedan's appearance is striking with modern body lines combined with 21-inch Y-spoke wheels.

Photo : KatadataOTO

Toyota itself reportedly has plans to offer a variety of engine options. Ranging from a full electric model to full-hybrid variants including plug-in hybrid and of course ICE. 

KatadataOTO, which witnessed its public introduction at the Japan Mobility Show (JMS) 2025, notes that much information is still being withheld. However, a little can be confirmed, especially regarding the development of a new family of 1,500 cc and 2,000 cc engines with the advantages of a smaller and more efficient size. 

Moving to the cabin, Toyota has certainly modernized the interior just like the exterior. You will no longer find physical instrument panel levers as everything has been replaced with touch buttons surrounding the digital instrument cluster. 

The controls themselves are grouped behind the steering wheel. And one of the attention-grabbers is a car-shaped gear lever, located on a floating console next to the driver. 

From the combination above, Toyota seems intent on moving its design language forward compared to before. 

There is a risk being taken on the design side; if they usually tend to play it safe, the Corolla designers now seem bolder in combining ideas and Toyota's future direction. 

Lastly, for your information, the 12th generation Corolla has been on sale in the global market for about 7 years. It seems it won't be long before this 13th generation enters the production line to become its replacement.

Photo : KatadataOTO

This means it won't be long before the newest generation begins production and sales. Certainly, Toyota does not want its global best-selling model to remain in its current form for too long, in order to maintain and even improve its record-breaking sales.