While Toyota has been perceived as trailing behind in the electric vehicle race compared to some of its competitors, the automotive giant is making strides to close the gap. They have recently unveiled an innovative Corolla concept that hints at the model’s most significant transformation in its five-decade history.
The current iteration of the Corolla, now in its 12th generation, has already marked a departure from its predecessors with a more appealing design, even offering a hot hatch variant. However, the 13th generation promises to be a groundbreaking shift, both in aesthetics and engineering.
During the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, Toyota declared that the forthcoming Corolla is set to be fully electric, with potential for hydrogen fuel cell integration too.
Dramatic Redesign
The new Corolla concept is a radical departure from the current model, drawing inspiration from Toyota’s bZ series but with a sharper and sportier edge. This futuristic design makes the existing bZ3 electric sedan seem ripe for a refresh. Despite being a concept shown at the Japan Mobility Show, it offers a glimpse into what the production model might entail.
The front of the concept mirrors the light signature of other bZ models, featuring a dual-layer light arrangement with daytime running lights and projectors hidden beneath smoked glass. Absent is a conventional grille; instead, a central intake with active shutters appears on the bumper.
From the side, the concept suggests an electric vehicle with a compact front and an extended windshield, indicating a shift away from traditional engine placements. The final production version may see adjustments to accommodate an engine, albeit smaller and possibly mounted lower.
Sportiness defines the design with a low, swept-back greenhouse and fastback styling. The concept showcases dynamic elements like the dramatic front door glass dip and the strake detail on the rear door, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.
At the rear, the vehicle features a wrap-around light bar extending into the sides, adding visibility and a squared-off yet angular design. Large 21-inch wheels and a subtle ducktail spoiler complete the sporty look.
Charging port doors are present on both front fenders, with an additional flap on the rear left, hinting at a possible plug-in hybrid capability.
Powertrains Galore
Similar to BMW’s strategy, which includes offering the next-generation X5 with multiple powertrain options, including hydrogen fuel-cell, Toyota plans to provide a diverse range for the Corolla. Buyers may choose from combustion, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and pure electric options.
The upcoming Corolla will debut a new platform accommodating these powertrains, marking a strategic shift from separate electric and combustion lineups to a unified model offering both.
According to Autocar, a hydrogen fuel-cell version featuring Toyota’s next-generation FCEV powertrain might also be in the cards. Toyota, along with BMW and Hyundai, remains committed to hydrogen as a viable energy source for electrified vehicles.
The Mirai, Toyota’s existing fuel cell vehicle, has seen limited sales. Incorporating this technology in the Corolla could boost its adoption.
Availability
As a global best-seller, the Corolla has traditionally varied in design, body styles, and powertrains across different regions. This customization is likely to continue with the new model, catering to specific market needs.
For instance, the U.S. and European Corolla sedans differ in appearance and powertrain options. The previous generation, sold until 2016, included a diesel variant in Europe, which was unavailable in the U.S.
Toyota has been tight-lipped about the new Corolla’s specifics, confirming only the availability of multiple powertrain options and a focus on aesthetics and technology. The car is expected to be “packed with inventions,” although details remain under wraps.
Further information will likely emerge as the launch date approaches. Given that the current generation debuted in 2018, the new Corolla is anticipated to arrive by 2027 at the latest.
Original Story at insideevs.com