The most popular car in history, the Toyota Corolla, is preparing for the birth of its 13th generation. The new model is expected to receive significant updates that will make it the most ambitious rebranding in its entire six decades of existence.
Expected Appearance of the Future Newcomer
At the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, Toyota revealed a radical concept that gave a glimpse into the model’s future. However, its avant-garde design raised doubts about how much of it would be implemented in the production car. Digital artist Theophilus Chin created his own speculative renders that balance boldness and realism.
His vision softens the extremes, turning the progressive design into a more down-to-earth form of a four-door sedan.
The illustrations are based on the proportions of the Lexus IS, borrow elements from the Toyota Crown Sedan, and add signature stylistic cues from the Corolla concept. The front design retains hammerhead-shaped headlights, now combined with additional daytime running lights integrated into the bumper.
Pragmatic Changes for Series Production
According to Toyota’s own designers, internal combustion engine variants will require certain functional changes. This likely explains the more pragmatic adjustments in Chin’s version.
In line with this approach, several of the concept’s most dramatic features were toned down. The low hood and ultra-modern window line were altered to better suit a road car. The wheel sizes became more modest, and the flush door handles gave way to conventional ones. The biggest change occurred at the rear, where the concept’s futuristic tail was replaced with a more traditional sedan layout.
The Radical Concept and Its Future
The original concept was developed by Toyota’s European design center in France, signaling a radical shift for the popular model. However, history shows that automakers tend to act cautiously with high-volume, globally popular models.
It wouldn’t be surprising if Toyota tones down the wildest aspects of the concept for the production version. Yet, there’s always a chance they might take a bigger step than expected.
It remains unknown whether the new generation will be offered in several body types, as it is now. Currently, the Corolla is sold worldwide as a sedan, hatchback, and estate. In addition to the futuristic exterior, the concept received a completely reimagined interior, combining cutting-edge technology with more premium materials and a spacious cabin.
Technical Specifications of the New Model
Toyota did not go into details regarding the technical basis of the new Corolla but confirmed it would remain true to the company’s “multi-pathway” approach. The model range will include hybrid and fully electric powertrains, meeting customer needs in global markets.
Potential candidates for the hybrid setup are new 1.5-liter and 2.0-liter gasoline engines currently under development, promising greater power and efficiency. Designers have promised there will be no compromises on cabin space across different powertrain variants.
The new Corolla is expected to be more exciting to drive than its predecessor, without sacrificing comfort and convenience. It is also possible that Gazoo Racing will develop a sporty version as a successor to the rally-bred GR Corolla.
When to Expect the Premiere?
The current 12th generation Toyota Corolla was introduced in 2018 and received a moderate update in 2022. This points to a potential launch of its successor in 2026 or 2027, although the automaker has not yet provided a target launch date.
The transition to the 13th generation Corolla is happening at a pivotal moment for the automotive industry, as electrification and digital technologies are redefining the affordable sedan segment. This model’s success has always been based on reliability and practicality, but now Toyota seems to want to add a significant dose of innovation and emotion to that formula. Preserving the variety of body styles and powertrains could be a decisive factor in maintaining its global popularity, allowing the brand to cater to both conservative buyers and early adopters of new technologies. The future will show whether the new Corolla can combine the revolutionary design of the concept with those proven qualities that made it a legend.