Toyota’s planning to electrify its world-famous Corolla as part of a complete redesign that’ll transform the compact car’s look and powertrain options.
The Corolla holds the title as both Toyota’s and the world’s best-selling car. Over 50 million units have rolled off production lines during its 60-year run.
Toyota president Koji Sato unveiled a concept car at the Tokyo Mobility Show that previews the next-generation Corolla’s direction.
The redesigned model will offer multiple powertrain choices – including a pure-electric version for the first time. Toyota’s also planning hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and traditional gas engine variants.
Multi-Fuel Strategy
Sato’s presentation emphasized Toyota’s approach to different global markets and their varying infrastructure needs.
“The Earth is vast, and the world is diverse. Roads differ, and so do energy realities. That said, there’s one thing that we all share: a sense of caring for the Earth.”
He continued with a focus on design appeal.
“And there’s one more thing… Wanting to drive a car that looks cool… I think that many of us share such a desire.”
The company hasn’t revealed which platform will underpin the new Corolla. Given the multiple powertrain options, it’s unlikely to use the e-TNGA architecture found in the bZ4X and C-HR+ electric models.
Design Overhaul
The concept represents a major departure from the Corolla’s traditionally conservative styling.
The sleek sedan shape draws inspiration from the latest Prius and C-HR+ models. Thin headlights and a full-width light bar create an angular front end. A steeply angled windscreen extends far back over the passenger compartment.
The rear continues the angular theme with a coupe-style design and wraparound light bar.
Inside, Toyota’s gone even more radical with a floating center console and separate screens for driver and passenger in a minimalist cabin.
“Whether it’s a battery EV, plug-in hybrid, hybrid, or internal combustion engine vehicle ― whatever the power source ― let’s make good-looking cars that everyone will want to drive,”
Sato said.
The concept aligns with chairman Akio Toyoda’s “no more boring cars” philosophy. Many of the show car’s design elements could make it into the production Corolla when it arrives in the coming years.
Toyota hasn’t announced timing for the redesigned Corolla’s launch or which markets will receive the electric version first.
