Toyota Motor Corporation Announces the 12th-Generation "New Corolla"

Toyota Motor Corporation launched the fully redesigned new Corolla (sedan) and Corolla Touring (wagon), along with a partially upgraded Corolla Sport (hatchback), on September 17. A press conference was held at the Megaweb Toyota City Showcase in Koto Ward, Tokyo.

The Corolla, with a history spanning over half a century since the debut of its first model in 1966, is a long-selling car with cumulative sales exceeding 47.5 million units in over 150 countries and regions worldwide. The models launched this time mark the 12th generation. While the new Corolla debuted earlier in Europe and North America, the vehicles sold in Japan feature a design exclusive to the domestic market.

Compared to previous models, the larger body features a refreshed, simple yet sporty design. Structural revisions, including lowering the center of gravity to enhance driving stability, have been implemented. Safety performance is ensured with the standard inclusion of the latest preventive safety technology, "Toyota Safety Sense," which detects bicycles and pedestrians. Furthermore, it accommodates a wide range of user needs, including the addition of a display audio (DA) system compatible with smartphones.

Vice President Moritaka Yoshida highlighted the Corolla's legacy, stating, "It's no exaggeration to say that without the Corolla, today's Toyota would not exist." "Each generation of the Corolla has delivered performance and richness typically found in higher-class vehicles, offering cutting-edge capabilities at an accessible price. The new Corolla returns to its roots, developed to exceed customer expectations and become a car that supports customers throughout Japan and around the world," he stated as he unveiled the new model.
Chief Engineer Yasushi Ueda then explained the vehicle's overview. "By enhancing its product appeal, it can now accommodate a wide range of users and scenarios. The new model has been reborn as an attractive Corolla," he emphasized.

President Akio Toyoda, who test-drove the new model at the company's test course, shared a video message: "I believe many people associate the Corolla with the term 'mass-market car.' In other words, for us, it means 'a car chosen by many customers.' When I see the many Corollas on the streets, I feel they are truly important cars, carrying the precious memories and stories of their owners and their families." He shared his feelings, revealing that the Corolla was the first car he ever purchased.

The talk session "What is the Corolla?" featured guest Hiroki Ando, a freelance announcer and member of the Japan Car of the Year selection committee. "The Corolla was my first real experience with a car," he recalled from his childhood. "My father bought the Corolla, which was his 'dream car,' and let me hold the steering wheel on his lap. I thought, 'What a cool car!'" He added, "The new model is undeniably cool too. No matter what class of car you compare it to, you feel proud you chose this one. It's great how the car responds exactly as you command it. It turns when you want it to turn, slows down when you want it to slow down. The ability to have a conversation with the car is its charm."

 That same day, the venue displayed all generations of the Corolla, including the first model. Numerous media representatives, specially invited owners of past Corolla models, and those who had pre-ordered the new Corolla experienced its evolution and 53-year history.

Corolla Official Website:
https://toyota.jp/corolla/?padid=tjptop_topmv_corolla_car