Next-gen Toyota Corolla previewed by bold new concept

Toyota has officially unveiled a striking new Corolla concept at the Japan Mobility Show 2025, previewing what will eventually become the next-generation Corolla. The current generation Corolla which is in its twelfth generation, has been on sale globally since 2018, and this all-new model – expected to launch in the near future, marks a radical departure from the long-running sedan and hatchback’s familiar design formula.

The new Corolla concept adopts a dramatically futuristic design language, moving away from Toyota’s traditionally conservative approach to one that is bolder, sharper, and far more expressive. Up front, it features a full-width LED light bar divided into segmented sections at the centre, with L-shaped LED elements positioned above for a distinctive lighting signature. Complementing this setup are slatted vertical LEDs below the light bar that flow into the lower air dam, giving the nose a layered and dynamic appearance.

A steeply raked windshield sits behind a sculpted bonnet with crisp creases, lending the car a cab-forward stance that’s both sporty and aerodynamic. Interestingly, the concept uses conventional ORVMs instead of camera-based units – a sign that this model could be close to production-ready. Other design highlights include a kinked window line, a sloping coupe-like roofline, a ducktail rear spoiler, and a continuous rear LED light bar that spans the width of the tail. The concept sits on large 21-inch alloy wheels, giving it a planted, performance-oriented stance.

Inside, the new Corolla concept embraces a futuristic and minimalist interior layout, designed to maximise space and visual simplicity. The dashboard is clean and pared-back, with most of the driver and infotainment controls relocated behind the three-spoke steering wheel, where a digital driver display also resides. This driver-centric arrangement reduces clutter while putting all major functions within easy reach.

The floating centre console features a dedicated display for HVAC controls and a unique car-shaped gear selector, emphasising Toyota’s intent to create a distinctive in-cabin identity for the next-generation Corolla. Its freestanding design also opens up more floor space between the front seats — a layout that hints strongly at the model being built on an EV-compatible platform.

While Toyota hasn’t revealed specific dimensions or outputs, the company has confirmed that the next-generation Corolla will be offered with multiple powertrain options, including full-electric (EV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV), strong hybrid (HEV), and internal combustion (ICE) variants. This flexibility ensures the Corolla continues to appeal to a wide global audience, while future-proofing it for regions rapidly transitioning to electrified mobility.

Toyota says the concept embodies the brand’s next step in human-focused design and efficient packaging, traits that have long defined the Corolla nameplate across its twelve generations. With its bold styling, flexible powertrain lineup, and forward-looking interior, the new Corolla is shaping up to be the most advanced and diverse iteration yet of the world’s best-selling car.

Expect more details to emerge through 2026 as Toyota readies the production-spec model for global launch.